A NEW ERA OF ELEVATED LEISURE, SPORT, AND HOSPITALITY
Entering into the final stages of the $92 million transformation, an exciting new chapter is underway at Saddlebrook Resort, the iconic 480-acre Tampa Bay-area destination known for world-class golf, tennis, leisure and group getaways. In motion is reimagining the 451-room resort from the ground up – positioning it among the nation’s premier leisure and sports resorts.
The renovations touch nearly every facet of the guest experience, from the lobby, accommodations, and restaurants to the event spaces, outdoor areas, and multiple
swimming pools. Renowned golf course architect Rees Jones has undertaken the redesign of Saddlebrook’s courses. There are now 41 tennis courts, 8 pickleball courts, a fitness center for cardio and strength training, a spa, plus a planned multi-court Padel area, and more. Saddlebrook is also home to the famed Saddlebrook Golf Academy, Hopman Tennis Program, and Saddlebrook Prep, long time training grounds for international sports legends.
Speaking of legends, the original owners of the resort acquired the Harry Hopman Tennis Academy in 1986 and moved it to Saddlebrook, which has been its home ever since. Champions like Jim Courier, Pete Sampras, Martina Hingis, Andy Roddick, Mardy Fish, James Blake and John Isner are counted among alumni, and today’s #2 ATP tour player, Alex Zverev, has trained at Saddlebrook since the age of 12.
Saddlebrook’s renowned golf courses, originally designed by Arnold Palmer, further cemented Saddlebrook’s reputation as a destination for the who’s-who in sports. Over the years, pro players like Keegan Bradley, K.J. Choi, Akshay Bhatia and Karl Vilips have honed their skills at Saddlebrook’s on-site academy and facility.
The launch of Saddlebrook Preparatory School in 1993, combined with the resort’s impressive sports facilities, attracted student-athletes from around the world, blending elite training with academics.
State-of-the-Art Golf Courses
In the works, Saddlebrook’s revered golf courses are reimagined to heighten playability and elevate the player experience at every level. The two existing 18-hole courses will become a challenging 27-hole layout made up of three interchangeable nine-hole courses. These can be combined in various ways to create three distinct 18-hole championship courses. Greens will be reconstructed using the USGA method for improved performance, fairway bunkers will be invigorated with upgraded drainage and crisp sand, and tee surfaces will be rebuilt and laser-leveled for consistency.
These upgrades build upon the December 2024 opening of Saddlebrook’s new 13-acre driving range that features a double-sided range, two TifEagle™ bermudagrass putting greens, and three short-game areas with greenside bunkers.
A New Pool Experience
Setting the stage for leisurely afternoons, guests will lounge around Saddlebrook’s 500,000 gallon “Super Pool” – Inspired by a playful ‘60s aesthetic, the Super Pool will reflect a palette of vibrant pinks and lush greens that infuse the space with vintage charm and modern-day appeal.
A Place to call HOME!
Guest rooms and suites will be entirely reimagined—seamlessly blending contemporary sophistication with the warmth and ease of residential living. Accommodations will include
a range of standard guest rooms to three-bedroom suites perfect for families and groups who want more room to spread out. Every detail has been considered to create a space that feels fresh, functional and inviting. New furniture will give the rooms a modern feel – marked by sleek wood-accented dressers, plush seating, and thoughtfully designed dining areas. A calming palette of soft neutrals and deep blues will set the tone, complemented by warm lighting and hand-selected artwork. In the suites, updated kitchens will feature white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and rich navy accents. Grouped in peaceful residential clusters, Saddlebrook’s rooms and suites are a central component of the resort’s innovative walking village layout.
Culinary Delights and All Day Dining
A resort is never complete without cocktails and great food options. The resort’s dining experiences are being revitalized, Saddlebrook will feature four experiences for food and drink, including the lobby’s coffee shop, a new poolside restaurant and bar, a sports bar and all-day dining destination.
Saddlebrook is part of Benchmark Resorts & Hotels, a collection of independent resorts and hotels operated by Pyramid Global Hospitality.
For more information, www.saddlebrookresort.com
