By Becky McClarran Recently expanded Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort, located in the heart of Rocky Gap State Park in Western Maryland,(Exit 50 - Off I-68)offers a beautiful place to relax and unwind. Set amidst the ridges, gaps and valleys of one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges, it’s hard to believe you’re an easy two-hour drive from Pittsburgh, Baltimore,Washington, D.C. and Harrisburg, Pa.AAA has honored the resort with its prestigious Four Diamond Award for four consecutive years.Rocky Gap is home to the only Jack Nicklaus Signature Course in Maryland. Here the Golden Bear carved a golfing masterpiece out of the mountainside, one that’s both challenging as well as scenic. The unique design combines dramatic elevation changes on the front nine with parkland style golf on the back nine. With five tee boxes on each hole, every player can enjoy the appropriate level of challenge. Golf Digest rates the course Four Stars.

Fine dining, along with a spectacular view, is available in the Lakeside Restaurant, with light fare available in the adjacent Lakeside Lounge. Casual dining is offered at Signatures Bar and Grill.

The newly glass-enclosed swimming pool brings year-round swimming to the resort. Guests may take a dip in the pool and relax in the hot tub beside it. Decorated with colorful kites and greenery, the pool is a delightful spot to unwind.

When it’s time to relax,the resort’s 218 guestrooms and suites feature custom-made Shaker-style furnishings with scenic golf course, lake and mountain views. Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort is pet friendly. For information or reservations, call 1-800-724-0828 or online at www.rockygapresort.com