The Gasparilla Inn & Club Opens for its 95th Anniversary Season

Historic Florida Gulf Coast resort offers new packages for golfers, couples and spa-goers

BOCA GRANDE, Fla. – (October 23, 2008) – A premier destination on Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast for 95 years, The Gasparilla Inn & Club opens for its 2008-2009 season today, Thursday, October 23. To begin the celebration, the National Historic Landmark resort is offering new travel packages, including a romance-filled getaway, a championship golfing escape and a rejuvenating spa retreat. The Romantic Rendezvous package, Pete Dye Golf package, and the Sun and Spa Experience package are available now through June 2009.

“The Gasparilla Inn is delighted to welcome new and returning guests to our picturesque, serene island for its 95^th season,” said Jack G. Damioli, president and general manager. “Travelers frequently tell us that the resort offers an atmosphere and hospitality that evokes the feeling of Florida as it was meant to be.”

Guests can take a romantic escape with the Romantic Rendezvous package, where they’ll be able to spend well-deserved time with each other in a beautiful, peaceful environment. The getaway includes a complimentary bottle of vintage champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries and lavish accommodations. Couples can choose from a wide variety of activities while escaping the stress of everyday life. Rates for the Romantic Rendezvous package begin at $273 per room, per day.

Golf enthusiasts can take part in The Gasparilla Inn’s Pete Dye Golf Getaway that includes complimentary golf on the resort’s award-winning Pete Dye-designed 18-hole championship course. Recently named to Gary Galyean’s Golf Letter’s 2008 “Global Ten,” this eco-friendly, par-72 course offers spectacular views of Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. Guests will also receive use of a complimentary golf cart and unlimited use of the practice facilities. Rates for the Peter Dye Golf Getaway package begin at $398 per room, per day.

The Gasparilla Inn’s Sun and Spa Experience is designed for travelers seeking a revitalizing getaway full of relaxation. The package includes a luxurious, 60-minute spa treatment at The Gasparilla Inn Spa as well as a complimentary fresh fruit basket, bottled water and Spa welcome gift. Guests can work out in the adjacent, fully equipped fitness center overlooking the Gulf of Mexico or take a leisurely stroll along the expansive sandy beach. Rates for the Sun and Spa Experience start at $376 per room, per day.

The Romantic Rendezvous, Pete Dye Golf Getaway, and Sun and Spa Experience are available from October 23, 2008 to June 30, 2009, Sunday through Thursday only. The package prices are based upon double occupancy, availability and are dependent on the season. Daily service charges and taxes are extra. Optional meal plans are available. To make reservations please call 800.996.1913 or 941.964.2201. For additional information, please visit www.gasparillainn.com.

Founded in 1913, The Gasparilla Inn & Club offers a true taste of “old Florida.” In addition to golfing and indulging in spa treatments, travelers can enjoy a day of tarpon or sport fishing in the noted Boca Grande Pass of the Gulf of Mexico; tennis on seven Har-Tru courts; a refreshing swim in the large family pool adjacent to the Gulf; or croquet match on a USCA-certified lawn. Guests also can enjoy fine dining, revitalizing in the resort’s pampering spa, keeping trim in the fully-appointed fitness center and indulging in a host of other activities.

About The Gasparilla Inn & Club
The Gasparilla Inn & Club has been a premier destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast since 1913. A member of Historic Hotels of America and listed on The National Register of Historic Places, the grand resort offers 142 accommodations in a pristine environment in the heart of Boca Grande, located on Gasparilla Island.  Owned by the William Farish family, The Inn has played host to many notables throughout its storied history, including Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, Thomas Edison, Katharine Hepburn, the George H.W. Bush family, members of the duPont family, Brit Hume, and others. Originally built to appeal to wealthy Northerners, The Inn has always been the center of village life on the island. The Gasparilla Inn & Club also offers separate golf and beach club memberships, as well as the hospitality of The Inn itself for guests who appreciate Florida as it was meant to be. For more information about  The Gasparilla Inn & Club, please visit www.gasparillainn.com or call 800.996.1913.