Casa Ybel Resort is a beautiful beachfront resort located on Sanibel Island in Florida. The resort is a popular vacation spot for tourists from all over the world. But have you ever wondered when Casa Ybel Resort was built?
Well, wonder no more! Casa Ybel Resort was built in 1896, making it one of the oldest resorts in Florida. The resort has gone through many changes since its inception but has always maintained its old-world charm.
The History of Casa Ybel Resort
Casa Ybel Resort was originally built as a private residence for businessman and inventor, Henry Ford. Yes, that Henry Ford! However, he only stayed there for a short while before selling it to another wealthy businessman, Francis Bailey.
Bailey turned the property into a hotel and named it ‘Sanibel House.’ It quickly became a popular destination for wealthy tourists looking for a luxurious vacation experience.
In 1913, the property was purchased by Cleveland businessman J.N. Darling who renamed it ‘Casa Ybel’ after the nearby lighthouse. He added several buildings to the property and turned it into an even more luxurious resort.
During World War II, the resort was used as housing for military personnel and their families. After the war ended, ownership of Casa Ybel Resort changed hands several times before being purchased by current owner Ron Kendall in 1979.
Since then, Kendall has made several renovations to the property while still maintaining its historic charm.
The Features of Casa Ybel Resort
Today, Casa Ybel Resort boasts 114 spacious suites with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico or lush tropical gardens. The suites are decorated in a classic Florida style with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi.
The resort also features a large outdoor pool with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests to relax under. For those who want to be active during their vacation, there are tennis courts, a fitness center, and bicycle rentals available.
Casa Ybel Resort is also home to two restaurants. Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant offers fine dining with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients. Coconuts Poolside Bar & Grill serves casual cuisine such as burgers and sandwiches by the pool.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Casa Ybel Resort is a historic gem on Sanibel Island that has been providing luxurious vacation experiences for over 100 years. From its humble beginnings as a private residence to its current status as a top-rated resort, Casa Ybel has always maintained its old-world charm while offering modern amenities and unbeatable views of the Gulf of Mexico.