“Thank you so much for opening the doors of Sunningdale to me and my family. As you know, I love New England, and wanted to bring together a large group of family and friends to share the experience of a Maine summer while celebrating my 50th trip around the sun. Sunningdale proved to be the perfect setting for this event, exceeding all expectations and delivering an unforgettable experience for all.
En route to Sunningdale, I already began to receive texts from family members who arrived early: “Shockingly beautiful!”, “Pictures don’t do it justice!”, “Stunning setting!”. Sunningdale’s location on the shores of Sebago Lake is incredible. The water is crystal clear, the view of the White Mountains in the distance inspiring and the sunsets absolutely jaw-dropping. Exploring the property brings you back in time. The restoration of the lodge, the boathouse, the cottage, the cabins and other structures is impeccable, worthy of a feature in Architectural Digest. And while truly grand, all the spaces are warm, comfortable and inviting.
The physical beauty of Sunningdale is captivating, but its true magic is in its design to engage and bring people together. Attention to detail has ensured that there is something for everyone. I can easily conjure a collage of memorable images: kayaking at sunrise; hiking nearby trails; lunching at mountain vistas; gathering to prepare meals together in the very well appointed kitchen; kids and adults alike, having the times of their lives, swimming in the lake, “sack-racing” and “egg-tossing” on the great lawn; friendly/competitive volley ball and tether-ball matches; roasting 8 chickens at once (yes 8 chickens!) on your XL Big Green Egg; the lobster boils overlooking the water; competitive games of “corn hole” and “string-ball”; enjoying an evening at the “theater” watching family perform their best on stage; cocktails at the boathouse at sunset, laughing and telling stories by a roaring campfire, a quiet night-cap in the exquisite great room of the Lodge, retiring while admiring the reflection of the moon on the water.
Kudos for making your vision for Sunningdale a reality. It is a beautiful and timeless place. More importantly it is once again what it was when it was founded so many decades ago, a place to convene, to explore, to celebrate, to reflect, to yearn for and to always remember.
Thanks again for sharing your very special place with us.”
Alex
Atlanta, GA