Times may have changed since the Grand Hotel opened on the shores of Mobile Bay in 1847, nearly two hundred years ago. But, people still come to this nostalgic Southern bolthole to slow down. Here, croquet mallet in hand at sunset or golf club at the ready at sunrise, they connect with family and friends, appreciate unsullied nature and revel in the remnants of Southern manners that may have fallen by the wayside in other settings. This revered coastal retreat likely hosted your grandparents on their honeymoon. Or, it might be where you had your first kiss, learned to fish from a pier or mastered swimming across the pool beneath sunny summer skies. It’s a place to put down your phone or close your computer to meditate over a magnolia blossom or appreciate that swag of Spanish Moss that festoons a nearby tree. It’s a hotel where you’ll hear stories, Southern style, with syrupy accents that sound like music. Once requisitioned as a hospital during the Civil War and later housing World War II officers meeting about critical operations, the hotel’s been an anchor to the community for eons. It boasts a spa, three pools, world class golf, a grand lawn and restaurants. At 4 o’clock each day a canon fires, the mesmerizing reminder that it’s time to toast the day.
Though a hideaway destination in itself, Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, now part of Marriott’s collection of noteworthy historic hotels, stands out as an ideal place to base when exploring this Gulf Coast region. Head to charming Fairhope, five miles from the hotel, to partake of a plethora of activities and amusements—including a nearly 1500-foot fishing pier, unique boutiques, hiking paths and monthly art walks. Visit March 20-22 to shop the 74th Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival, a buzzy affair, which showcases more than 200 juried artists. Set up along pedestrian-friendly streets, the festival transforms the downtown into a convivial museum and gallery space. Browse booths that brim with exceptional artworks: handcrafted jewelry, furniture, paintings, fine art photography, pottery and more. Expect live music, a children’s art tent and that carnival food you’ve loved since childhood.
