Review: Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas: A Luxurious Stay Worth the Investment
I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Ritz-Carlton Dallas, formerly known as the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas. This upscale hotel, now part of the Marriott portfolio, offers a delightful experience. Although it may seem a bit costly, the transition to Ritz-Carlton justifies the price tag.
A Refreshing Change
Room rates at this property range from $450 to $800 per night. Initially, I hesitated to book due to the high price, especially considering the hotel’s age. However, my friend convinced me otherwise. While the Thompson Dallas, where I stayed the previous night, felt modern and fresh, the Four Seasons Dallas had a charming country club ambiance that seemed slightly outdated. In fact, the property’s investors recognized this and subsequently decided to rebrand it under the Ritz-Carlton name.
Location: A Retreat near Dallas
Situated in Irving, Texas, a northwest suburb of Dallas, the Ritz-Carlton Dallas offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Although it may seem far from downtown, its proximity to the DFW Airport provides convenience for travelers. With its extensive amenities, including a golf course, gym, spa, multiple swimming pools, and various bars and restaurants, once you arrive, you won’t want to leave the resort.
Smooth Check-In Experience
Upon my arrival at 1:00 pm, the lobby was abuzz with attendees of a business conference. Although the check-in line took around 10 minutes, the staff efficiently attended to guests. The lobby, reminiscent of a beautiful hotel from 2002, exudes a timeless charm rather than being a cause for complaint.
Spacious and Comfortable Rooms
My assigned room, 962, was a deluxe room on the top floor. Boasting a king-size bed, a sitting area, a work area, and a balcony, it provided ample space. As an added perk of being on the top floor, the room had higher ceilings and featured unique half-moon windows above the standard ones.
The room was equipped with a Nespresso machine, and the bathroom featured a spacious bathtub, a large shower, and luxurious L’Occitane bath products. Additionally, the closet provided slippers and robes for ultimate comfort.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Center
The hotel’s status as a country club with guest rooms offers a remarkable advantage: access to an exceptional gym. The fully-equipped fitness center boasts numerous machines that cater to a wide range of workout preferences. As a fitness enthusiast, I greatly appreciated this feature, as it surpassed the typical small gyms found in many hotels.
Recreational Delights: Squash, Tennis, and More
Guests at the Ritz-Carlton Dallas have access to squash and tennis courts, perfect for those seeking an active stay.
Indulge in Relaxation at the Spa
The hotel’s clubhouse also boasts a full-service spa, offering guests a chance to unwind. While I didn’t opt for a massage during my stay, I thoroughly enjoyed the sauna, steam room, and soak pool. The spa’s amenities, although slightly outdated, provided a pleasant experience. Unlike some other hotels, there were no additional charges for spa access.
Pool Retreat: Outdoor and Indoor Options
The Ritz-Carlton Dallas offers both outdoor and indoor pools for guests to enjoy. The expansive outdoor pool stretches along the building, offering a picturesque view of the golf course.
The Olympic-sized indoor pool, though frequently busy, provides ample space for swimming and relaxation.
Superb Dining Options
During my stay, I had the pleasure of experiencing the delicious dining options available at the Ritz-Carlton Dallas.
Outlaw Taproom: A Cozy Haven
The Outlaw Taproom, the hotel’s bar and cigar lounge, offers guests a cozy retreat for drinks and snacks. With both indoor and outdoor dining areas, including a delightful patio with a fireplace and fire pit, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day.
Room Service: An Indulgent Experience
When my friend wasn’t particularly hungry for dinner, I treated myself to room service. The ribeye steak paired with the beet and arugula salad was a culinary delight. The steak, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor, showcased the culinary excellence of the hotel.
Law Restaurant: A Culinary Gem
The hotel’s main restaurant and steakhouse, Law, will continue to operate even after the rebrand from Four Seasons to Ritz-Carlton. I had the chance to enjoy a complimentary breakfast here, and the service provided by Marcus and Lucy was exceptional.
My breakfast consisted of a refreshing bowl of berries, a cappuccino, and a glass of cold-pressed green juice. The highlight of the meal was the flavorful huevos rancheros, allowing me to savor a taste of Tex Mex before my upcoming trip to the Middle East.
Breakfast at Law was an exceptional experience.
Final Thoughts
As my stay at the Ritz-Carlton Dallas marked the last review of the Four Seasons Dallas at this location, I must express my appreciation for the hotel’s charm. However, considering the evolving standards and the allure of the Thompson Dallas, it is unlikely that I would choose to stay here again. Nevertheless, I am confident that the Ritz-Carlton brand will breathe new life into this remarkable property.
