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A lot of recent reviews have stated that this plac...

A lot of recent reviews have stated that this place isn't as well run since the new management, Omni, took over. I have to agree. My first visit here was several years ago and I loved it and couldn't wait to come back. First, the people at the front desk don't seem as knowledgeable about the property or surrounding area. Had an odd mix up when extending our stay (this included a long and awkward conversation on the phone) and had to downgrade our room. Didn't see any price change on our bill. Also asked for a quiet room. They placed us right above the Great Hall where all of the guests mingle and the piano plays until 10.

The room was small but fine. The bathroom was gorgeous and spacious. Closet had a lot of space as well. Some rooms on the 12th floor have a great view of the roof of the restaurant, fyi. Wi-Fi, sadly, was out until the last half day we were there. And we stayed for three nights. That was disappointing. Also know that if there's a thunderstorm, a lot of the TVs in the complex will not work.

The grounds were spectacular to be honest. Has an "old money" vibe but I wasn't expecting anything different. There are several pools (one of which was closed during our stay), a mini-golf course, a extensive spa, a huge gym, lots of outside areas, multiple ballrooms, two great golf courses, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Essentially, there are a lot of things to do.

As for the golf, the Old Course is located just off the property. The driving range is beautiful, there is a small putting green, and a larger short game area with a bunker. The course is originally a Donald Ross design, so expect it to be a little short with lots of elevation changes and severely sloped greens. I think it's a great track that will test players of all abilities. There is a lot of history here and I suggest talking to one of the pros or golf staff members. The Cascades course, in my opinion, has the best back nine in Virginia. The way it meanders through the lower part of the property with various water features is absolutely beautiful. The front nine is good but there are too many holes along the highway. Tougher than the main course but stunning. This course, however, is three miles down the road and its driving range is small and is another shuttle ride away.

I feel like there could be a lot to love about this place and there was when I visited several years ago. But now I feel like they try and take money wherever they can. I don't mind a resort fee, but there is a parking fee on top of this. The staff members are a lot less welcoming and can be borderline rude at times. The food options on property (except for the market) are fine but overpriced. They do nothing to promote what's in town and the surrounding areas and there are a lot of fantastic options within a 10 minute drive. There also isn't a shuttle into town anymore. It's a short walk but it still makes it less accessible to everyone. I also hear the deals on various travel sites are the way to go. Most have all these added fees included so you won't have as much of a sticker shock afterwards. Some also have room upgrades and breakfast included. I enjoyed my stay here, but it's in direct competition to the Greenbrier and I would choose that place over the Homestead any day of the week.

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