Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
by Diane C. DiVallPack your bags, roll down the car windows and turn up your favorite song—a great vacation is only a few hours away. Just 150 miles northwest of Naperville is a peaceful slice of paradise known as the Galena Territory. The Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa occupies 6,800 rolling acres within the Territory. This spread of bluffs and breathtaking natural views appears as untouched as it was back in the 1900s. Paul Brown, the director of sales and marketing for Eagle Ridge, says it's that feeling of "total escape" that separates his resort from others in the Midwest.
The sense of serenity can be felt on a scenic horseback ride at the nearby Shenandoah Stables. Experienced guides lead riders through open meadows and across shallow streams, along several trails in the Territory. Little ones can take their first horseback ride on a lead line for $14. Adult rides range from $36 to $150. All include spectacular views of the Galena Territory. For reservations call 815.777.2373 or visit www.ShenandoahRidingCenter.com.
If your horseback ride leaves you a little sore, book one of many soothing massage treatments at the Eagle Ridge StoneDrift Spa. The perfect choice for someone who's a little stiff in the saddle is the Drifting Stone Massage. Warm basalt stones are applied to the body to melt away tension and ease aching muscles. This 50-minute treatment costs $95. For reservations call 815.776.SSPA or visit www.eagleridge.com.
&Cheese shop, info@galenawinecheese.com.
Before you head back to Eagle Ridge, take a walk down Bench Street where many scenes were filmed for the movie Field of Dreams. Then cross the Galena River to get a glimpse of the green velvet drapes from Gone with the Wind. They are hanging in The Belvedere Mansion, a restored 22-room home built in 1857 (1008 Park Avenue, 815.777.0747). History lovers won't want to miss the Ulysses S. Grant Home, where the country's 18th president lived after the Civil War (500 Bouthillier Street, 815.777.3310).
& Chophouse offers both a lunch and dinner menu with a spectacular view of the first hole of one of the resort's four golf courses. Woodlands Restaurant & Lounge boasts a first-class dinner and Sunday brunch, as well.
Sixty-three holes of golf are spread throughout the Territory, offering both beginners and seasoned pros plenty of choices. The resort's signature course, The General, ranked among America's Top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses in 2007 and 2008, according to Golf Digest. For tee times call 800.892.2269.
Lodging options at Eagle Ridge are as varied as the golf courses. There are 80 hotel rooms in the main building and 300 rental units spread throughout the resort. There are plenty of overnight packages and pets are welcome. For reservations call 815.777.5000 or e-mail at res@eagleridge.com or www.eagleridge.com.
Whether you want to relax or play, Eagle Ridge can satisfy your getaway needs. The 228-acre Lake Galena is stocked with tigers, muskies and bass. Pontoons, canoes and paddleboats can be rented in season. Athletic visitors will value the indoor pool, four tennis courts, sand volleyball, and hiking and biking paths. For the adventurous, hot air balloon rides can be arranged for sunrise or sunset, as well. Visit www.buyaballoonride.com for more information.
So, if you're searching for a place that's close to home but will leave you feeling like you've made a great escape, plan a getaway to Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena. You may just lose yourself along the way.
