There are some places that instantly make you feel like you’ve escaped everyday life the moment you arrive, and Grand Cascades Lodge at Crystal Springs Resort is definitely one of them. Nestled in the mountains of northern New Jersey, this resort combines relaxation, recreation, delicious dining, an award winning wine cellar, and stunning scenery into the perfect weekend getaway. Read on and I'll tell you all about our most recent stay!
Disclosure: I won a two-night stay to Crystal Springs Resort from NJHipsturbia on Instagram. All opinions are my own and I was not otherwise compensated for this post.
From the moment we checked into our spacious one-bedroom suite at Grand Cascades Lodge, we knew we were in for a memorable stay. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a girls’ weekend, or a fun family escape, Grand Cascades Lodge truly offers something for everyone.
Grand Cascades Lodge vs. Minerals Hotel
Crystal Springs Resort actually consists of two lodging options, Grand Cascades Lodge and Minerals Hotel. They are about 3 miles apart, so not within walking distance of each other. Each has their own dining options and amenities. If you want to visit one or the other for dining, you have to drive between them. We stayed at Grand Cascades so I really can't attest to much at Minerals. If we visit again in the future and happen to check out their property or restaurants, I will definitely come back to update this post.
Staying in a One-Bedroom Suite
There are different room options available at Grand Cascades, from standard guest rooms to suites with balconies, decks and fireplaces. Our one-bedroom suite felt more like a luxury apartment than a hotel room. The accommodations were beautifully designed with warm, modern decor and plenty of space to spread out and relax. We loved having a separate living area, a cozy fireplace, and a private balcony overlooking the mountains. The full kitchen came complete with a refrigerator/freezer, dishwasher, and even a washer/dryer. The bathroom had a sunken tub with jets as well as a glass door shower and heated floors. I loved that the bathroom connected both to the main entrance and the bedroom. I'm an early riser and my husband is not, so the two doors enabled me to access the bathroom without having to walk back through the bedroom when he was sleeping.
One of the best parts of staying in the suite was simply slowing down and enjoying the atmosphere. After a busy day exploring the resort (actually, it was a busy night of wine tasting! Ha!), it was the perfect place to unwind and order room service. Truthfully, we don't often order room service at resorts, but we loved the room so much that we couldn't resist!
Jersey Momma Tip: Ask for a room with a mountain view. Most of the rooms have beautiful views regardless, though, but if you think you'll be spending time in your suite, think about where you want to be situated.
Relaxing at the Biosphere Pool
One of the highlights of our stay was spending time at the famous Biosphere Pool Complex. We were a little disappointed to find that the pool was actually closed for a corporate event on the first day of our arrival (and it was raining that day, so we really needed the pool! 😩). But we were able to visit on our second day, and it was wonderful. Surrounded by tropical plants, towering palm trees, and a retractable domed ceiling, the Biosphere feels like stepping into a tropical paradise, or at least your own personal greenhouse with a pool. There is a small outdoor pool, as well, but it was too chilly for us to check that out while we were there.
It’s one of the most unique resort pools in New Jersey and absolutely worth experiencing for yourself. We visited off-season so the Taqueria was not open. We could not get food there during our visit but we could order drinks! The frozen piña colada was delicious.
Jersey Momma Tip: the pool area is unique and tropical, but it's small. If you are visiting during peak season, be aware that the pool can get crowded, so arriving earlier or during the week would be a good option if you want to avoid crowds.
Wine Tasting and an Incredible Wine Cellar Tour
Crystal Springs Resort is known for its award-winning wine collection, so we couldn’t pass up the opportunity for a wine tasting and wine cellar tour. And I know what you're thinking- how exciting could a wine cellar tour be? Let me tell you, the resort’s wine cellar is seriously impressive (one of the largest in the country), and learning about its history made the experience even more special (for example, the collection belonged to Crystal Springs visionary developer, Gene Mulvihill, and there are bottles in the collection that date back to the 1800's). The cellar is actually beautiful, too, with stone walls, paintings, cozy lighting and stained glass art. We self-toured once and then came back for the guided tour with Suzanne (who is amazing, I might add!). There is no charge for the tour, so definitely check it out.
And, of course, we had to participate in a wine tasting. This was an added fee but well worth it for us. It was both fun and educational, featuring a variety of excellent wines paired with expert recommendations and insights. I've been to wine tastings before but I actually learned a lot of facts at this one. I've been sharing what I learned with friends and family since we returned.
Jersey Momma Tip: Even if you don't take a tour, there's a great wine shop in the wine cellar. You can purchase wines and wine-related gifts here, as well as chocolates, caramels and other treats that pair well with wines.
Dinner at Crystal Tavern
Dinner at Crystal Tavern was another highlight of our trip. The restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere with a menu full of flavorful dishes. Because we visited midweek off-season, some of the resort restaurants were closed. We wound up eating at Crystal Tavern twice- once for dinner and once for takeout/room service. We enjoyed our meals both times. There is an upscale restaurant called Latour at the lodge, as well, but we did not have a chance to experience it. Maybe next time!
Jersey Momma Tip: Crystal Tavern is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is something for everyone on the menu, including children. You also might even have enough food for leftovers if you dine there. If you have a suite, you can keep those leftovers in your refrigerator for future snacking during your stay.
The 18-Hole Putting Course
For a little friendly competition, we spent time at the resort’s 18-hole putting course. This turned out to be such a fun activity and a great way to enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery around the property. It was a nice couples moment for us, and I loved that it was right outside of the lodge so we didn't have to walk far. There's also a koi pond there and you can witness the koi feedings certain times of the day, on-season.
Jersey Momma Tip: the putting course was fun and stress-free. Even if you're not a golfer, I highly recommend this. It's not difficult and we didn't even keep score. This is an included activity for hotel guests, so there is no extra fee to play. But if you are a true golfer, Crystal Springs offers many options for golfing.
Shopping
I'll be honest, this was my one disappointment at Grand Cascades. I really like souvenir shopping, especially at resorts. Grand Cascades Lodge had a golf pro shop but that was really all. There were no Crystal Springs t-shirts or magnets or souvenir merch. If I had to make one suggestion to the resort, that would be it- add some affordable, high-class shirts or resort wear (not just golf wear). There is also a wine shop in the wine cellar which is definitely worth visiting if you're a wine drinker.
Jersey Momma Tip: There is no sundries shop at this resort (there is a small coffee shop with drinks and breakfast sandwiches, but no basics) so if you have needs for Tylenol, feminine products, toothpaste, allergy meds, stomach meds, etc, you will need to drive off-site to a pharmacy or supermarket for these things. So pack accordingly if you think you'll need any of the basics.
Top-Ranked Reflections Spa
Before we visited, everyone told us that we needed to check out Reflections Spa, right inside the hotel. But I'm sure they'll all be disappointed to know that we walked past it, but never actually went inside. I know, I know, lame, right? But we had limited time and our schedule was already full. But if you visit, you can check out all of their salon and spa services and tell me all about it.
Jersey Momma Tip: If spa visits are your thing, then check out the packages that Crystal Springs offers. They have some great options for spa packages ad you can also book your spa appointments online.
What We Missed at Crystal Springs
We loved this trip so much and we're already planning to return. We didn't get a chance to check out their hiking trails, Latour Restaurant, dining at Minerals Hotel, Reflections spa, and many of the resort activities that were not available off-season.
Final Thoughts
Our weekend at Grand Cascades Lodge was the perfect mix of luxury, relaxation, and fun. Between the tropical Biosphere Pool, incredible wine experiences, delicious dining, comfortable accommodations, and relaxing atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Crystal Springs Resort remains one of New Jersey’s most popular getaway destinations.
If you’re looking for a luxurious escape without leaving the Garden State, this resort should absolutely be on your travel list.
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Questions? Message me, leave a comment or send me an email! I always try to be as honest as I can. You can also check out my reels and photos of Crystal Springs on Instagram.
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