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Bear with me on this, as I feel it's a genuine, bu...

Bear with me on this, as I feel it's a genuine, but thorough breakdown:

1. First off, the staff is fantastic--they are really terrific.
2. This is a historic and beautiful resort, nestled above gorgeous Asheville, but unfortunately it doesn't quite deliver for its price point. The premises is vastly sprawling, such that you either need to get a shuttle or prepare for a long hike just to move around to main features, such as the main pool.
3. The signage within the hotel's room wings is exceedingly poor, so you will need to carry a map with you or ask staff for directions--DO NOT assume you can just find a place like you might in other resorts.
4. If you want to visit their delightful spa, book a slot WELL BEFORE you actually arrive. If you get here and try to book a slot, be prepared for disappointment as it is often booked days in advance.
5. The golf course is very nice, but quite overpriced. You can find better prices options nearby at a very short drive.
6. The food and beverages are good, but probably about 15% overpriced compared to similar resorts, and as with the spa, I cannot stress just how important it is to make restaurant reservations well in advance. Room service is generally a ~45 minute wait.
7. Most of the rooms seem historic, so they have a rustic look and are quite dark. They are clean, but be aware that this place thrives on its historical ambiance, so expect just enough modernity to be comfortable without necessarily being as convenient as other high-end resorts.

Overall, it is truly a pretty place staffed with wonderful workers, but I feel there are simply too many guests--they put too great a strain on the site's amenities to accommodate everyone. There is also some definite room for improvement in on-site signage/maps to help you navigate through the labyrinth of halls, paths, elevators, and shuttles to traverse the premises.
If you are the type to plan ahead and schedule your entire trip, you will likely fall in love with this place. If, however, you prefer booking your room and enjoying your vacation on the fly, then quite frankly, you would do well to book your stay elsewhere.

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