November 2026
November 2026 Dear Owners, As we approach the holiday season and the close of another year, we are pleased to share highlights from Grand Cascades Lodge and Crystal Springs Resort. Grand Cascades Lodge continues to deliver strong year-to-date performance, supported by healthy demand from both group and leisure guests. We remain focused on sustaining this momentum, enhancing the guest experience and further strengthening our position as the premier four-season resort destination in the Northeast. Looking ahead, the resort has a full calendar of holiday celebrations, seasonal activities and special events planned for guests and owners to enjoy, along with ongoing property enhancements. Thank you for your continued partnership and support. We wish you and your families a wonderful holiday season and look forward to welcoming you to the resort in the months ahead.
NOTEWORTHY PROJECTS + ENHANCEMENTS NEW RESORT OWNERSHIP South Street Partners Expands Its Multi-Billion Dollar Portfolio with the Acquisition of Crystal Springs Resort. South Street Partners, one of the largest owners and operators of private residential club and resort communities in the United States – including Kiawah Island, Palmetto Bluff, The Cliffs, The Beckwith-Crested Butte, The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, PGA National Resort and others – is a private equity real estate investment firm headquartered in Charlotte, NC and Charleston, SC. Founded in 2009, South Street, on behalf of its SSP GP Funds, their institutional joint venture partners and co-investment vehicles, has $3.8 billion of assets under management.
Leadership Continuity Across Operations Under the new ownership structure, operational leadership at Crystal Springs Resort will remain seamless. Robby Younes, who has served in executive leadership at the resort for two decades, will continue in his role as President, guiding the resort’s strategic vision, team development and guest experiences alongside South Street Partners. Chris Randolph, Managing Partner at South Street Partners, has stated that, “Crystal Springs Resort is a remarkable asset that enhances our firm’s portfolio of properties. The Resort embodies our commitment to well-located, quality real estate, with a strong emphasis on exceptional staff, services, and amenities. We are excited to welcome this iconic Resort as our first New York metropolitan area property in our portfolio.”
Big Sky Pavillion
Conceptual rendering for illustrative purposes only. Final design and details are subject to change.
Conceptual rendering for illustrative purposes only. Final design and details are subject to change.
Gino34
VENUE ENHANCEMENTS Crystal Springs Resort continually enhances its offerings through new projects and refurbishments. Both the interior and exterior of Grand Cascades Lodge and the Crystal Springs Clubhouse are consistently maintained and upgraded to uphold our standard of excellence. Specific undertakings by property location are detailed below:
Big Sky Pavillion Nestled among mature trees with sweeping, uninterrupted sunset views across the mountain skyline and surrounding grasslands, the new permanent construction of Big Sky Pavilion will seamlessly harmonize contemporary architecture with its natural setting. Inside, a central lighting installation of 150 suspended glass pendants will cast a serene glow, offering an elevated atmosphere defined by refined elegance and architectural distinction. To accommodate scheduled events without disruption, construction will take place in two distinct phases. Phase one excavation and foundation work runs from November 2026 through April 2027, followed by a pause to resume booked functions. Main construction recommences in November 2027 with a Grand Opening on April 1, 2028. Once completed, this breathtaking venue will feature a 7,700 square-foot banquet hall and an attached 5,300 square-foot pavilion, ready to welcome up to 500 guests.
Gino34 Gino34, formerly Springs Bistro, welcomes guests just off the lobby of Grand Cascades Lodge. This refined yet relaxed Italian-American destination features a menu of timeless classics — from artisanal pizzas and authentic pastas to chef-inspired entrées. To complement your meal, explore a curated selection of fine wines and signature cocktails. During the summer, the experience extends to the outdoor patio, offering stunning mountain views, a perfect al fresco atmosphere, and live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
LEISURE STAYS Driving Occupancy and Reach Crystal Springs Resort continues to boost demand across both properties by targeting key leisure segments, including families, couples, girlfriend getaways, golf trips, and social celebrations. Marketing efforts focus on digital initiatives rich in photography and video, alongside expanded influencer partnerships that broaden brand reach and social growth.
Midweek Campaign Strategy The Resort is actively targeting the New York DMA to drive Sunday – Thursday leisure bookings, spotlighting our premium spa, and dining offerings. The core campaign positions Grand Cascades Lodge as a high-end, stress-free alternative to air travel — delivering an uncompromised resort experience just a short drive away.
SEASONAL ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS Grand Cascades Lodge has improved the guest activity experience for visitors to enjoy for the upcoming winter season. Our winter activities lineup will feature a mix of returning holiday favorites and programming that continues throughout the winter months. Seasonal offerings include visits with Santa, gingerbread cookie decorating, ornament making, stuffed animal builds, animal educators, pony rides, live nativity, Glice skating and our popular Christmas goats. Beyond the holidays, guests can enjoy ongoing activities such as curling, axe throwing, Crystal Cabaret, wine tasting, mixology, and live family entertainment during school breaks. We also have a strong lineup of indoor corporate offerings designed to appeal to groups throughout the winter season. These include wellness experiences such as yoga and sound healing, creative classes like Paint and Sip, Cupcake Wars, Candle and Perfume blending, live entertainment, and outdoor target sports. Together, these offerings create a well-rounded winter calendar that appeals to both leisure and group travelers, helping position the resort as an attractive destination throughout the colder months.
FALL AND WINTER: SPECIALS + PACKAGES We have successfully launched our seasonal packages, which are a mix of new offerings designed to stimulate the aforementioned midweek demand plus existing seasonal promotions that have previously performed well.
Autumn Spa & Stay Unwind in the season of sweater weather. Treat yourself to crisp mountain air and total relaxation, paired with elevated seasonal treatments at Reflections Spa.
Fall Savings Peak foliage, prime value. Experience the best of autumn at Grand Cascades Lodge with exclusive seasonal rates across our AAA Four Diamond accommodations.
Exceptional Rates, Limited Dates Exclusive flash savings. Take advantage of rare, highly discounted room rates on select upcoming calendar dates. Inventory is limited and early booking is strongly recommended.
A December to Remember Immerse yourself in holiday magic. Celebrate the festive season surrounded by dazzling light displays, signature holiday activities, seasonal dining, and cozy fireside experiences at up to a 30% savings.
School’s Out, Fun is In The ultimate family getaway. Keep the kids entertained during school breaks with an action-packed lineup of supervised activities, indoor pool fun, and daily resort events.
Winter’s Great Escape Your snow-season retreat. Embrace the beauty of winter with easy access to nearby slopes, heated indoor biosphere pools, warm fireside cocktails, and cozy luxury with savings up to 30%..
WEDDINGS Crystal Springs Resort is redefining the modern destination wedding with the introduction of immersive, multi-day celebrations set across our four distinct properties. Designed for couples seeking more than a single-day event, the resort’s reimagined wedding experience transforms celebrations into thoughtfully curated weekends where welcome gatherings, ceremony backdrops, culinary moments, and farewell brunches unfold seamlessly across a collection of unique settings. Our wedding events continue to perform very well, with a near full schedule for the balance of this year and strong 2027 and 2028 business projected for the hotel’s Emerald Ballroom and the new Big Sky Pavillion, which can accommodate larger wedding groups. The Resort has heavily invested in marketing programs including paid search, CTV campaigns and promotion via top media vendors {The Knot, Wedding Wire, Zola, Here Comes the Guide and others} in order to generate qualified leads and booked business.
For more information on planning a wedding, please scan the qr code to complete an RFP.
CORPORATE SALES Demand for in-person group events is surging as clients shift away from hybrid models to prioritize high-value, face-to-face engagement. In-person meetings consistently yield superior communication, deeper focus and active collaboration. A primary growth catalyst is team building, integrated by 90% of visiting groups. Planners are actively seeking inspirational, wellness-focused experiences set against our serene mountain backdrop ranging from guided nature walks and locally foraged culinary classes to sound bowl healing and outdoor rock climbing. To capitalize on this momentum, we have expanded our multi-channel marketing investments — including paid search, LinkedIn campaigns and strategic partnerships with platforms like CVENT and Teneo to capture high-intent leads and accelerate booked business.
For more information on planning meetings and events, please scan the qr code to complete an RFP.
INSPIRATION SERIES TEAMBUILDING HIGHLIGHTS The Resort offers the most comprehensive teambuilding and group activities program in the Northeast. With our curated Inspiration Series, staff can participate in tactile experiences within the categories of nature, wellness, sustainability, culinary and local agriculture. Popular offerings include guided nature walks, cooking with locally foraged ingredients, restorative yoga, sound bowl healing and meditation in a beautiful bucolic mountain setting. In addition to the Inspiration Series, the Resort offers an array of additional team building activities with themes focused on culinary, wine and mixology, charity builds, group games, outdoor adventures, golf clinics, creative endeavors, team training and development and more.
GOLF OUTING SALES As the Northeast’s largest and most celebrated golf destination, Crystal Springs Resort sets the gold standard for corporate tournaments, non-profit fundraisers, and group leisure outings. Backed by a seasoned events team that executes over 500 successful tournaments annually, we transform every event into an extraordinary experience tailored to your organization’s specific goals—whether you are driving donor engagement, celebrating team milestones, or fostering high-level corporate networking. Our scale and commitment to excellence have earned the trust of the nation’s top organizations. For three consecutive years, Crystal Springs has proudly served as the host venue for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation First Responder Outing the largest event of its kind in the United States.
UNFORGETTABLE SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES What truly distinguishes Crystal Springs is our curated collection of immersive, one-of-a-kind golf packages designed to leave a lasting impression on your guests:
Ballyowen Bagpiper + Scotch Experience Transport your group to the rolling hills of Scotland with a traditional live bagpiper performance paired with an exclusive curated scotch tasting on our award-winning Irish-style links.
Highlands Golf + Hand-Rolled Cigars Combine championship play with old-world sophistication, featuring premium hand-rolled cigars enjoyed against the backdrop of our breathtaking mountain vistas.
The Triple Shotgun Outing Designed for maximum scale and energy, this high-capacity format allows massive groups to seamlessly take over multiple championship courses simultaneously for an unmatched tournament atmosphere.
For more information on planning an outing, please scan the qr code to complete an RFP.
GOLF Crystal Springs Resort remains at the forefront of regional golf excellence. Earlier this year, the resort has three of its premier courses named to the highly anticipated Golfweek Best of 2026 rankings for public-access courses in New Jersey. Cementing its status as a world-class golf hub, Crystal Springs Resort claimed three of the Garden State’s top 12 spots, including the coveted No. 1 overall ranking:
Ballyowen {No. 1 in NJ} This spectacular Celtic-style links course once again took the state’s top honor, offering golfers a pristine Irish-heathlands experience.
Crystal Springs Course {Tied for No. 8} Known for its dramatic elevation changes and stunning natural water features, this rugged, scenic layout continues to be a favorite among regional golfers.
Wild Turkey {No. 12} This Roger Rulewich basin and ridge design provides an exhilarating challenge with wide fairways and distinct risk-reward opportunities. “Having three of our courses recognized by Golfweek is a tremendous testament to our superintendents who maintain championship-level conditions year-round,” said Art Walton, VP of Golf Operations at Crystal Springs Resort. “But we aren’t standing still—we are actively investing millions to ensure our facilities match these world-class accolades.”
Nearly $2 Million Invested in Championship Conditions To maintain the high standards celebrated by Golfweek panelists, Crystal Springs Resort has implemented an extensive capital improvement plan. By the end of 2026, the resort will have invested nearly $1 million in comprehensive bunker renovations specifically at Ballyowen, Black Bear and Wild Turkey. An additional $1 million-plus has been funneled into vital turf and player-experience improvements across the properties, including upgraded irrigation systems, cart path replacements, tee-box leveling and targeted tree removal.
Nurturing Golf’s Next Generation These massive infrastructure and technology investments align perfectly with shifts in golf demographics. Nationally, the 18-to-34 age bracket now represents about a quarter of all on-course golfers, officially surpassing the over-65 demographic to become the sport’s largest age group. “This surge has been driven by access to public golf courses, the positive influence of social media, and a dramatic increase in female participation,” notes Walton. “Crucially, 45% of all female golfers are now under 35 years old. Our investments at Black Bear are tailor-made to welcome this highly social, tech-minded crowd.” Ensuring these newer players have a clear path to mastery, the world-renowned Leadbetter Golf Academy at Crystal Springs continues to experience unprecedented demand. Led by a staff of elite certified instructors, the Academy has established itself as a hub for excellent competitive talent.
REFLECTIONS SPA Monday — Saturday: 9:00am – 9:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am - 7:00pm
Reflections Spa continues to delight guests with its pampering services, expansive retail and dazzling ambiance. The spa’s menu features lavish massages, skin therapies and beauty treatments that incorporate innovative techniques and products. The luxurious facilities and glamorous atmosphere are sleek and seductive, inviting guests to release their stresses and find elevated heights of relaxation. Reflections Spa has implemented several new services:
Yume Head Spa This elite head spa experience is a restorative ritual that honors both mind and body. The process blends scientific precision and sensory tranquility, cleansing the scalp, stimulating circulation, and creating an environment for healthier, more radiant hair. This experience has been available in a wonderful 50 minute treatment and will soon be expanded to include a top tier luxurious 100 minute treatment to include a double micro mist and mini-facial as well.
Aesthetics Menu Reflections Spa will debut a new menu this winter, which will include the introduction of a Korean Glass Skin Facial that combines Korean skin-barrier philosophy with products from Savor Beauty — a fresh, small-batch New York botanical skincare. Savor Beauty is known for luxurious products that deliver immediate and lasting results, making them a perfect fit here at the spa.
Exclusive Benefits for Groups True well-being is best when shared. Groups can experience a restorative getaway with our exclusive Group Privileges. Designed for gatherings of all sizes, this collective retreat unlocks preferred rates and elevated perks across at Reflections Spa. The spa boutique continues to offer an attractive collection of apparel, jewelry and top product lines such as Caudalie, NuFace and Tara. This year, Reflections Spa was awarded the honor of #2 Luxury Spa in NJ by Spas of America Top 100 Spas of 2025.
MINERALS SPORTS CLUB HOURS OF OPERATION Weekdays: Gym — 5:00am - 9:00pm + Pool — 8:00am - 9:00pm Saturday + Sunday: Gym — 7:00am - 9:00pm + Pool — 8:00am - 10:00pm We are delighted about the continued extraordinary feedback for Minerals Sports Club facilities, which include: The Foundry: An expansive cardio and weight training floor, located in the former basketball court space. Fit Works Studio: A sophisticated studio space with a robust fitness and yoga class schedule. The High Wall: A sleek basketball court and high energy rock climbing wall space. The Gristmill Spin Room: A space for indoor cycling which increase cardiovascular endurance & muscular strength. Pool Complex: Indoor/outdoor pools, steam, sauna, hot tubs, cold plunge. Pickleball Courts: Three regulation courts for use by our members and guests.
Personal Training — Get Fit for Life! Our personal trainers will guide you through a fitness routine that meets and succeeds your individual goals. Instruction includes proper warm-up exercises, form and technique to stay injury free, a healthy diet to improve your lifestyle, plus how to remain motivated. For membership and pesonal training information, please email kmulholland@csresort.com
HOLIDAYS + EVENTS CELEBRATE THE SEASON AT CRYSTAL SPRINGS RESORT Discover why generations of guests make Crystal Springs Resort their preferred holiday home. This season, we are pairing our cherished annual traditions with elevated dining, live entertainment, and unforgettable winter festivities designed to bring family and friends together.
Thanksgiving Feast — Seven Culinary Destinations Skip the kitchen and immerse yourself in an extraordinary culinary experience. Choose from seven distinct dining venues across the resort, including three grand holiday buffets accompanied by live music and seasonal favorites.
The Holiday Spectacular — December 12 Gather in the Canyon Ballroom at Minerals Hotel for our premier seasonal stage show. Featuring vibrant live performances and holiday magic, it is a festive highlight for guests of all ages.
Christmas + New Year’s Eve Celebrations Close out the year in style with exquisite multi-course dinners, festive family activities, and high-energy Ringing-In-the-New-Year parties.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2027 The celebration doesn’t stop when the clock strikes midnight. We are already curating an ambitious lineup of culinary festivals and seasonal events for the upcoming year:
New Jersey Wine & Food Festival | April 30 – May 2 Join us at the Crystal Springs Clubhouse for our signature culinary event of the year. Experience exceptional dining prepared by Top Chefs, a high-stakes cocktail competition featuring New Jersey’s top mixologists, and our famous Grand Tasting as we welcome over 1,500 guests for an unforgettable weekend.
New Jersey Beer & Food Festival | June 19 Head over to Festival Field for an over-the-top barbecue feast paired with tastings of more than 200 craft beers, ciders, and hard seltzers. Guests can enjoy live music, lawn games, and lively outdoor activities all afternoon long.
Summer Event Series at Black Bear | Monthly, May – August Summertime at Black Bear Golf Course brings back our popular Bourbon + BBQ and Clambake nights. Stop by for specialty smoked meats, fresh seafood, craft drafts, and premium bourbon tastings. Guests can enjoy goat yoga photo booths, classic pub games, live music plus the Nine and Dine golf package.
SIP + SAVOR The Curator Wine + Spirits Bar Room Guests can discover an extraordinary and ever-evolving collection at our stylish retail venue, nestled within our Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning Wine Cellar. We offer a curated selection of fine wines, spirits and wine merchandise, plus artisan chocolates. Explore our recent additions of rare Tequila, Scotch, Bourbon and Cognac.
The Chef’s Table at Restaurant Latour Make your reservations now for The Chef’s Table at Restaurant Latour, an exclusive and immersive dining experience offered each Friday evening. Utilizing an array of foraged and meticulously sourced ingredients, Chef Florian Wehrli and Chef de Cuisine Matt Laurich prepare five exceptional courses of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, delighting guests at the renowned Restaurant Latour. The menu is refreshed each week and also features surprise offerings from the kitchen.
CRYSTAL CABARET In the spirit of the cabarets of yesteryear, Crystal Springs Resort has continued the Crystal Cabaret offering in the attractively decorated and furnished Napa Room. Guests can enjoy extraordinary weekend entertainment featuring gifted singers and talented comedians. Grammy Award winner Hernan Romero will perform during each show’s opening and intermission. Located in at Crystal Springs Country Club every Saturday night through May and will resume again in September. Includes signature cocktails and wine, plus sweet or savory fondue. Book now by calling 844.845.9697 or emailing info@csresort.com
DINING GRAND CASCADES LODGE Restaurant Latour: {RESERVATIONS REQUIRED} Thursday – Sunday 5:00pm
Crystal Tavern: {RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED} Breakfast 7:00 - 11:00am Lunch 11:30am - 4:30pm Dinner 5:00pm - 10:00pm Bar open past 10:00pm on select nights
Gino34: {RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED} Breakfast 8:00 - 11:00am Wednesday — Friday Dinner 5:00am - 10:00pm Wednesday — Saturday
Biosphere Taqueria: {HOURS MAY VARY} Wednesday - Thursday 12:00 - 9:00pm Friday 12:00 - 10:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 10:00pm
Rosebud Roasters: Sunday – Thursday 6:30am - 7:00pm Friday + Saturday 6:30am - 10:00pm
The Chefs Garden: {CLOSED FOR THE SEASON} Vista 180° Seafood Shack: {CLOSED FOR THE SEASON}
MINERALS HOTEL Kites Restaurant: {RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED} Breakfast: Daily 8:00 - 11:00am *Buffet only on Saturdays + Sundays Lunch: Daily 11:30am - 4:30pm Dinner: Monday - Thursday 5:00 - 10:00pm Friday – Sunday 5:00 - 10:00pm
Frosty’s Cantina: {WEATHER PENDING} Hours may vary
Zinc Café: Daily 7:00am - 800pm
The Pool Bar: Thursday 3:00 - 8:00pm Friday 1:00 - 8:00pm Saturday + Sunday 11:00am - 8:00pm
GOLF COURSES Bear Den Grille: Daily 7:00am - Sundown
Owen’s Pub: Daily 7:00am - Sundown
Call 844.205.1857 for dining reservations or book online.
OUR LODGING TEAMS In addition to our dedicated frontline team members, the following managers are critical to the continued success of the Crystal Springs Resort lodging program and are always at your service for any questions or requests:
GRAND CASCADES LODGE Bill Polchinski, General Manager 973.864.8059 • bpolchinski@csresort.com Caroline Little, Owner Relations 973.864.8980 • clittle@csresort.com Gemmy Dimitry, Assistant General Manager 973.864.8955 • gdimitry@csresort.com Nicole Sisco, Director of Front Office 973.864.8703 • nsisco@csresort.com Betty Decker-Verkon, Accounts Receivable Manager 973.864.8901 • bdecker@csresort.com Gail Sanson, Director of Resort Revenue and Reservations 973.864.8084 • gsanson@csresort.com
MINERALS HOTEL Sherif Ayoub, General Manager 973.864.8047 • sayoub@csresort.com Caroline Little, Owner Relations 973.864.8980 • clittle@csresort.com Betty Decker-Verkon, Accounts Receivable Manager 973.864.8901 • bdecker@csresort.com Gail Sanson, Director of Resort Revenue and Reservations 973.864.8084 • gsanson@csresort.com
Call the Crystal Springs Resort Reservations Sales Center at 888.239.1016 to book your stay. Visit our Resort website for all the latest happenings. TheCrystalSpringsResort.com We are committed to improving as a partner to our Homeowners and making Grand Cascades Lodge at Crystal Springs Resort the premier staycation in the New York metro area. Wishing you all the best! Sincerely,
Robby Younes President