One of the nation’s longest-running camps, Total Tennis originally launched in 1978 at the Williston-Northampton School in Massachusetts before moving to a year-round location in Saugerties, New York in 1997. Set on 73 wooded acres, just over 100 miles from New York City, this 25-court facility is at once a tranquil retreat and a magnet for avid tennis players drawn by the five-hour-a-day programs, sumptuous meals prepared by a CIA-trained chef focused on local ingredients, and convivial atmosphere.
A rustic main lodge anchors the property. Check-in formalities take place there just off a large great room with a fireplace, baby grand piano, lots of sofas and chairs, and a bar open late afternoons. There’s also a modest pro shop, a game room and library, a TV room, and an expansive dining room furnished with large picnic tables, the better to encourage making new friends over dinner. Tennis art decorates the public spaces and rooms.
Those rooms, 43 in all, are scattered through the lodge and six cabins, and until recently these accommodations were, let’s call them, “basic.” Renovations in 2018, however, upgraded roughly three-quarters of the rooms, fitting them out with new furnishings, hardwood floors, and redone baths (the remaining quarter, now classified as “retro”, rent for less). About the same time, a new swimming pool and deck was constructed between “The Barn” (more about that later) and the five indoor courts, the latter with a cushioned surface and bright LED lighting. WiFi is now available throughout the rooms and public spaces, one more amenity to go along with the hot tub, day spa, fitness center, game room (in The Barn), and outdoor tennis, pickleball, and paddle tennis courts. And though you might not expect it, the property is beautifully landscaped, with towering trees and beds of flowers and shrubs.
Total Tennis founder Ed Fondiller is using those enhancements as a springboard to launch the 73-acre property as a resort, calling it Kaatsbaan Lodge. “The idea is to lure people up to take a lesson or clinic, or hit on an open court, and then go hiking, biking, or rafting,” he told me. “Although we’re still a committed tennis camp, we’re no longer talking about just tennis. They can stay here, take advantage of the amenities and meals, and then use it as a base to explore the Hudson Valley and historic towns like Saugerties and Woodstock. We are really looking for ways to maximize the potential of this place, particularly in the summer.”
My experience with Total Tennis originally dates to its days at Williston-Northampton School. If the five-hour-a-day program persists from that era, the clientele now sport more arm sleeves and knee and ankle braces. On my last visit to Saugerties, I heard several campers, drawing presumably on past experience, already thinking ahead to how tired and sore they expected to be in a few days and scrambling to book time with the massage therapist. Five hours a day is demanding even on the red clay and artificial clay where much of the teaching takes place. Fondiller still strives to keep a student:pro ratio at 4:1. That assures more personal attention but at the same time ratchets up the number of balls you’ll hit in the course of the day. Such in the nature of his tennis-hungry clientele, however, that I saw four women who no sooner arrived than they donned tennis clothes and headed to the courts—never mind the rigorous schedule that lay ahead of them the next day. And although I wasn’t around to see it, my guess is they also took part in the optional round robin that takes place on Mondays and Saturdays—that’s after having put in five hours on court.
The tennis aside, Total Tennis has also always been about the camaraderie. Group dinners help foster it. So do the swimming pool and hot tub. On weekends, when crowds are larger, there’s often a DJ and dance music in the barn. That said, there’s not much that goes on there at night. Maybe catch some TV in the barn (there are no TVs or radios in the rooms); more likely, catch up and reading and, now that there’s good WiFi, social media.
Tennis Programs. Fondiller adopts a simple approach to his camp: “I try to keep it laid back and relaxed,” he told me. “I want to keep tennis in perspective. If you’re not out there having fun, you shouldn’t be playing.” He himself makes a a point to be on hand at the start of every weekend and midweek camp, introducing the program and helping to sort campers into compatible groups and pairing them with an instructor (campers generally work with the same pro throughout their stay). But the daily instruction—and ½-hour private lessons that are part of every package—he now leaves to his stable of experienced pros, headed by Saif Syed and Devarshi “Bubla” Mitra, who have been with him for 15 and 20 years respectively. All of them take their cue from Fondiller and keep the atmosphere light. Despite its 5-plus-hour-a-day format, this is not a boot camp.
Talk to any of the camp regulars, and the comment you hear over and over again is that they like the people who attend. The recidivism rate is high, so people frequently run into campers they’d met on previous visits. It is not unusual for 75 or more people to show up for a weekend camp.
Weekenders are almost exclusively adults, but midweek during the summer Total Tennis also offers options for juniors ages 6 to 17. When kids and parents come together, the juniors can take part in a summer camp that bundles tennis in the morning with other activities in the afternoon leaving parents free to indulge their passion for tennis without having to worry about their children.
Court Complex: There are 25 courts altogether: 11 red clay, 12 hard (5 of them indoors), and two artificial clay.
Caveat: Any program that puts you with the same pro throughout the week risks the occasional personality conflict. If you’re not happy, my advice is to ask to be switched, even if that means having to join a group of players above or below your level.
Off Court
Golf Courses: Although there is no golf course at the camp, there is one 18-hole course just up the road.
Spa & Fitness Center: A day spa, with six treatment rooms, makes a variety of massages available to campers and other guests. There is also a modest fitness center in a long, narrow room in the building that houses the indoor courts It has several pieces of Cardio equipment as well as multisport stations.
The camp has a recreational swimming pool open during the summer and fall, as well as a year-round hot tub.
Accommodations
Getting there
Seasons: Year-round, however the outdoor season runs from mid May to mid October. During the winter most people come for weekends or long weekends.
Travel Instructions: By Air: The nearest major airport is Albany, 47 miles to the north. By Car: Total Tennis is three miles from Exit 20 off the New York State Thruway. That puts it roughly 100 miles north of New York City. By Bus: Several bus lines connect New York City with Saugerties. You can phone from the drop-off point and someone from Total Tennis will pick you up. By Rail: The nearest Amtrak station is Rhinecliff, New York.
Ed and his staff do everything to make Total tennis a warm and comfortable experience. they take the time to really get to know you and your skills to make the tennis experience perfect for every level of play. The food is a DEFINITE PLUS PLUS!!!!!! Been to several camps bit Total Tennis is the best complete experience from stay to play!! Recommend it highly to anyone who asks
SA
Enjoyed the great instruction from very talented pros. Very fine food and comfortable accommodations, too.
AC
Always a fabulous stay! Tennis instruction fabulous as well as the meals! Exceptional mini get away!!
MW
Strengths: The instruction is excellent, with lots of personal attention. The food is really good. Weaknesses: It’s best to go with a foursome of similar level so you can minimize mixing with other players. Be aware that all players overrate themselves at the beginning, so you should do the same, although they do sort everyone out by ability as much as they can.
JM
What a place! We had never gone to a tennis camp and didn’t know what to expect. It was GREAT! Our instructor was very knowledge, skilled and friendly. We never felt neglectd in instruction time. The meals were 5 Stars….all the way. Accommodations were also Very Good! Now that we’re retired, we are going to Total Tennis much more often. We know we won’t be disappointed.
NB
A wonderful place to get great tennis advice, drills and workout. Food is absolutely phenomenal as well ass the pros and staff. I try to go every year if i can. Love tennis and it’s my go to place to get great intructions and relax with my friends.
PS
Let’s start off with the greatest weakness which might actually be a strength. The cell phone coverage is spotty and only the main lodge has WiFi. Maybe this is a good thing if you are trying to decompress. Tennis instruction is top shelf. You are placed with people of equal ability and have lots of fun. The food is not only locally sourced but healthy, delicious and plentiful. The only rule is don’t take more than you will eat. That’s the same thing my parents taught us. Clay courts save joints.
LH
It offers a wonderful experience. It is fun, instructive and in a beautiful location. The rooms are cute and clean. We’ve been here about ten times. My daughter and I love coming. The food is really good. You may just come for the food.
JW
Total Tennis is a great place to tune up your game any time of the year. Pros are excellent for the most part, some who are career pros and not just college kids. You get to hit a lot of balls, play as much as you’d like. The food is exceptionally good and the accommodations are good enough. It is an easy drive from the tri-state area, so no dealing with airlines. It’s a camp you want to return to year after year. The friendly staff is always there to welcome you again.
DC
Great camp and great instructors. Been coming back over 10 years
KK
One of my favorite places to go. I’ve been there with friends and also by myself. You feel totally comfortable either way. Total Tennis is the best. Will go probably 4 times this year. The only weakness is no TV in the rooms. I am a TV girl.
BL
The tennis instruction was very good. Plenty of court time. Food was top notch. The rooms were very comfortable but a little dated. All in all , a wonderful experience.
KM
Dear Tennis Enthusiasts, I attended Total Tennis for many years, as far back as when it was held in a Boys Private School in Massachusetts. I had planned to room with my best friend who lived in Massachusetts but, she needed to cancel at the last minute. I was so very excited to attend my first Tennis Camp that I agreed to be matched with another woman named Karen who needed a roommate. The rest is history. We had an amazing time together both socially and educationally and we fulllheartedly agreed to room together the following year. Every aspect of my tennis skills improved tremendously from Ed Fondiller’s Pro staff drills. My entire Long Island neighborhood was blown away by the degree of which I improved, that they all joined me for many years going forward. Then my husband was so impressed with my tennis progress that he invited his male friends to join him on a “GUYS TENNIS WEEKEND”. That also continued for many years. Along with Ed’s transition to his NY State venue, he carried forth his delicious and healthy meals, his top quality Pro staff and a comfortable, congenial and fun atmosphere. Even when I moved from Long Island to New Jersey, I packed up my USTA Team of women and made our way to TOTAL TENNIS. This was my first Tennis Camp experience and, to this day, I still hold a dear place in my heart for Ed and his wonderful staff… from the reception staff and meal servers to the Tennis Pros. I’ve been to several more upscale Tennis Resorts and enjoyed some terrific training but the price, atmosphere, service and staff of TOTAL TENNIS provides a memorable and deliciously active extended weekend package. It will forever remain a favorite.
PD
I cannot say enough about Total Tennis. I have referred many people to the resort who have become regular guests at the resort. It is very special because not only is the tennis of the upmost professional standard but the entire experience is none less than perfect. The comfortable accommodations, spectacular food and extra amenities which include a pool, spa and massages. Not to mention the friendliest staff. I have been visiting Total Tennis for over 20 years and plan on continuing. Well worth a try. You will not be disappointed.
BH
The instruction and food were both fantastic! Great pros, who worked us out as hard as we wanted, and gave good pointers without ever being negative. Very flexible too – our group of 8 women decided to change the schedule to better suit our needs and the staff was completely gracious and willing to accomodate us. Beware of how good the food is – you can easily gain weight despite all the exercise. Fantastic greens and vegies, great protein, and a terrifyingly good baker. Our room was adequate, not great. Did not bother me because I spent no time in it. The bartender was glad to make us whatever drinks we wanted, and we so enjoyed the public space.
JK
Excellent program with comfortable ambiance. Wonderful food & spirit of staff. Overall great experience
JP
Whether I would tell friends to go is not a hypothetical question…I already have told friends about Total Tennis for years and plan on making a group trip at some point in future. Besides a fun day of tennis, the food stands out in my memory. I enjoy the rustic setting, and ease of the program (ease in the process not the drills). Wine & cheese mixers as an added extra are always nice, as well as meeting a lot of friendly guests (campers?). The instruction helped my game, but again my recollection is french toast, chicken wings & steak.
CC
Total Tennis exceeded my expectations! It was a wonderful learning and social experience in a very down to earth environment which I appreciated. I like the un-fussey atmosphere of the place, the people, the players and the instructors.
MS
My husband and I have been going to Total Tennis for almost 30 years and we attend 2-3 times per year. We love it!
BH
This is a great little place with wonderful staff and very good food. I am part of a group that goes annually, and honestly….the place just gets better and better. For instance they just upgraded many of the rooms, to make your stay even more comfortable. I am looking forward to my next trip there.
MG
All inclusive tennis camp chock full of good instruction in AM& PM. Community atmosphere during meals and free play. No worries where to eat. Just show up in dining room for good, healthy meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They even have a decent spa. It is worth the drive even from DC. Total Tennis is a Find.
JA
Great food and service. Staff are very friendly and good instruction.
LT
I went to total tennis in early fall. Tennis wasn’t tense the rooms and accommodations were very nice and the food was incredible. I can’t wait to go back again
FD
I have been at least 10 times and can say that it is my favorite vacation ever! Even though it’s a little run down, the atmosphere is comfortable and clean. The food is well prepared, high quality, simple and delicious. Kudos to the chef and staff! Most of all, the tennis instruction is top notch and keeps me coming back for more. The court surfaces are well kept and in the Spring/Summer three different surfaces are offered. If my schedule and budget allowed, I would be there at least once a month.
BD
Small balanced classes with experienced instructors. The food is a highlight with many choices. The rooms are comfortable. We had a great time!
KS
Total Tennis is awesome! I have attended three different times over several years and have been pleased every time. The Strengths (don’t change a thing!): The lessons, the staff, the food! All of these deserve an A+ rating in my book! The Weaknesses: I would have written something about the facilities, but my most recent visit was spent in one of the renovated rooms…excellent! I have only been to Total Tennis in the winter, so this next point may be moot the rest of the year; There are a few “common” areas that are very underutilized. It’s nice to have something to do in the evenings but there is not anything planned in the winter months. Of course, this is a minor complaint as you really only need to bring a book and relax!
DB
Best instruction I ever had. Friendly and very knowledgeable instructors & staff. Fantastic delicious and plentiful food. I recommend total tennis to all my tennis playing friends.
NY
A great location in the scenic Catsklills. Tennis instruction was great, and the food was excellent.
CM
Excellent cuisine Rooms are old
GB
I have been going to Total Tennis for many years and have never been disappointed. It is nice to have a variety of court surfaces to play on…clay being my favorite as it is easy on your body for the many hours of tennis you can play during camp. They have fun instructors that make the time fly with many drills and games. The very best part of the camp is the food! Healthy, organic food with options available for all dietary choices. You will never be hungry. Don’t expect luxury accommodations…but that adds to the experience. Lots of fun people of all ages attend this camp.
MS
Fantastic tennis trip, great lessons, great food
AJ
I have been going to Total Tennis for five years, since I started playing tennis. I love the community of tennis lovers I meet there every year. The instruction is top-notch and the food is delicious!
HM
I love this tennis resort. The instruction was great, the setting spectacular and wonderful food. Lots of learning and lots of laughing…great holiday. The only thing that needed to be upgraded were the accommodations….and they have done that. I am looking forward to attending a tennis camp there this fall.
JS
Enjoyable site. Facilities were excellent. Our instructor was able to adjust to our level and provide accurate feedback. All in all, it was an excellent experience.
KW
fWe’ve enjoyed every visit to Toral Tennis going back to the days when they were in Easthampton, MA. We ha e been several times since they moved to Saugerties. The food has always been wholesome & delicious. Ed, his family and the staff make you feel very welcome. The instruction is fine and we’ve met lots of fun people who enjoy tennis as we do.. If you enjoy tennis & are not seeking Ritz Carlton accomodations, you’ll love this place.
MB
Best tennis resort I’ve ever been to. Top notch tennis instruction, food, activities, and people! Enjoyed the pool and hot tub. Excellent value for what you get.
DN
I had a great weekend at total tennis! The people were friendly. Rooms were clean. Pros were amazing. Food was outstanding. I want to go back – It’s been a while!
EM
Whatever your level, if you like playing tennis, Total Tennis is a totally great way to spend a weekend. The clinics, are fun and innovative with the right amount of instruction to help you improve but not make you feel like you are in a drill camp. If you still want more tennis, they hold a round robin after the regular sessions are over and everyone gets one 1/2 hour private lesson. We usually go as a group of 4 or more, but my husband and I have gone just the two of us and were paired up with other compatible players. I think it would be a great place to go if you are single as well (especially on a singles weekend), as everyone is very friendly and you can’t help but meet people during the meals, clinics, cocktail hour and disco in the barn. Speaking of meals, the food is amazing! Served cafeteria style with a robust salad bar, as a pescatarian, there is always more than enough to fill me up!
KC
I’d recommend going to Total Tennis at least once. They have great food, newly renovated lodging and many pros to choose from.
KD
Fantastic coaches, fantastic and health good and the best post-workout massage you could ask for. My group has been going to Total Tennis for 8+ years and we continue to learn a ton and come back for more. Highly, highly recommend therm for all levels.
LZ
Intense clinic, great staff,delicious meals
DY
The food is the best thing about Total Tennis. The lodging was adequate although outdated when I went the past consecutive 4 years but I understand it has since been renovated. The instructions can be hit or miss depending on which instructor you get. Overall, a positive experience and I’d go back especially now that the rooms have been renovated.
LK
My daughter and I have many fond memories of Total Tennis. We are trying to coordinate schedules now to plan a return trip. Would go every Christmas holiday and leave the day after Christmas. Love the friendliness of all the staff, the country feel of the place, fresh air. The tennis lessons keep you very busy and focused. I don’t know which is better, the quality of the food or the tennis lessons. Both are superior!! Loved every minute we were there. They also have a spa onsite which was great for getting an after tennis massage. Loved the hot stone massage! Have always been for the indoor tennis. Have practiced outside when the weather was agreeable. I heard about this resort from a tennis enthusiast friend who goes every other weekend just about. He loves it so much!
BW
How excellent the pro’s are and how much they help improve your game. The courts are great and you can chose soft if you prefer over hard courts. The food is outstanding!!!
RA
Best tennis camp out there.
TE
I believe Total Tennis employs very knowledgeable professionals. My friends and I have taken away many good pointers, incorporating them in our daily matches. However, I would change the tennis schedule at Total Tennis. There should be two afternoon sessions instead of one. There’s too much down time in the afternoon and not enough other activities to fill the void.
AB
Tennis is awesome setting is great and food is outstanding! Looking forward to going back soon!
RC
An outstanding value in every respect. 5+ hours on-court per-day with 1 instructor per 4 students. A perfect ratio for many reasons. The tennis instruction is first-rate. Lots of outdoor courts (hard, clay, simulated-grass). Indoor courts available for foul-weather instruction. Each day, all 3-meals are artfully prepared with lots of dietary variability. You will not go hungry here. In fact, you must take care to not over-eat! BYOB or purchase wine for your meals. Optional social activities at night (eg, a dance), ping-pong, pool, etc. Rooms are comfortable and clean (not large, but adequate). I am astonished that you can go here for 3 (or more) days for the low prices they charge.It’s an incredible tennis value. Sign-up massages available. Note: This is a Tennis Camp, not a spa/resort. But as a Tennis camp, it is *very* special.
AM
Loads of tennis. Not luxurious or pretentious. Camp atmosphere with outstanding food and lots of instruction
EO
I’ve been to Total Tennis 3 times. Been happy each and every time. Instructors are excellent, as is the food. I know they are working on upgrading accommodations, which is great. I’ll be back this summer. It’s also a GREAT value.
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366 Reviews on “Total Tennis - Kaatsbaan Lodge”
Ed and his staff do everything to make Total tennis a warm and comfortable experience. they take the time to really get to know you and your skills to make the tennis experience perfect for every level of play. The food is a DEFINITE PLUS PLUS!!!!!! Been to several camps bit Total Tennis is the best complete experience from stay to play!! Recommend it highly to anyone who asks
Enjoyed the great instruction from very talented pros. Very fine food and comfortable accommodations, too.
Always a fabulous stay! Tennis instruction fabulous as well as the meals! Exceptional mini get away!!
Strengths: The instruction is excellent, with lots of personal attention. The food is really good. Weaknesses: It’s best to go with a foursome of similar level so you can minimize mixing with other players. Be aware that all players overrate themselves at the beginning, so you should do the same, although they do sort everyone out by ability as much as they can.
What a place! We had never gone to a tennis camp and didn’t know what to expect. It was GREAT! Our instructor was very knowledge, skilled and friendly. We never felt neglectd in instruction time. The meals were 5 Stars….all the way. Accommodations were also Very Good! Now that we’re retired, we are going to Total Tennis much more often. We know we won’t be disappointed.
A wonderful place to get great tennis advice, drills and workout. Food is absolutely phenomenal as well ass the pros and staff. I try to go every year if i can. Love tennis and it’s my go to place to get great intructions and relax with my friends.
Let’s start off with the greatest weakness which might actually be a strength. The cell phone coverage is spotty and only the main lodge has WiFi. Maybe this is a good thing if you are trying to decompress. Tennis instruction is top shelf. You are placed with people of equal ability and have lots of fun. The food is not only locally sourced but healthy, delicious and plentiful. The only rule is don’t take more than you will eat. That’s the same thing my parents taught us. Clay courts save joints.
It offers a wonderful experience. It is fun, instructive and in a beautiful location. The rooms are cute and clean. We’ve been here about ten times. My daughter and I love coming. The food is really good. You may just come for the food.
Total Tennis is a great place to tune up your game any time of the year. Pros are excellent for the most part, some who are career pros and not just college kids. You get to hit a lot of balls, play as much as you’d like. The food is exceptionally good and the accommodations are good enough. It is an easy drive from the tri-state area, so no dealing with airlines. It’s a camp you want to return to year after year. The friendly staff is always there to welcome you again.
Great camp and great instructors. Been coming back over 10 years
One of my favorite places to go. I’ve been there with friends and also by myself. You feel totally comfortable either way. Total Tennis is the best. Will go probably 4 times this year. The only weakness is no TV in the rooms. I am a TV girl.
The tennis instruction was very good. Plenty of court time. Food was top notch. The rooms were very comfortable but a little dated. All in all , a wonderful experience.
Dear Tennis Enthusiasts, I attended Total Tennis for many years, as far back as when it was held in a Boys Private School in Massachusetts. I had planned to room with my best friend who lived in Massachusetts but, she needed to cancel at the last minute. I was so very excited to attend my first Tennis Camp that I agreed to be matched with another woman named Karen who needed a roommate. The rest is history. We had an amazing time together both socially and educationally and we fulllheartedly agreed to room together the following year. Every aspect of my tennis skills improved tremendously from Ed Fondiller’s Pro staff drills. My entire Long Island neighborhood was blown away by the degree of which I improved, that they all joined me for many years going forward. Then my husband was so impressed with my tennis progress that he invited his male friends to join him on a “GUYS TENNIS WEEKEND”. That also continued for many years. Along with Ed’s transition to his NY State venue, he carried forth his delicious and healthy meals, his top quality Pro staff and a comfortable, congenial and fun atmosphere. Even when I moved from Long Island to New Jersey, I packed up my USTA Team of women and made our way to TOTAL TENNIS. This was my first Tennis Camp experience and, to this day, I still hold a dear place in my heart for Ed and his wonderful staff… from the reception staff and meal servers to the Tennis Pros. I’ve been to several more upscale Tennis Resorts and enjoyed some terrific training but the price, atmosphere, service and staff of TOTAL TENNIS provides a memorable and deliciously active extended weekend package. It will forever remain a favorite.
I cannot say enough about Total Tennis. I have referred many people to the resort who have become regular guests at the resort. It is very special because not only is the tennis of the upmost professional standard but the entire experience is none less than perfect. The comfortable accommodations, spectacular food and extra amenities which include a pool, spa and massages. Not to mention the friendliest staff. I have been visiting Total Tennis for over 20 years and plan on continuing. Well worth a try. You will not be disappointed.
The instruction and food were both fantastic! Great pros, who worked us out as hard as we wanted, and gave good pointers without ever being negative. Very flexible too – our group of 8 women decided to change the schedule to better suit our needs and the staff was completely gracious and willing to accomodate us. Beware of how good the food is – you can easily gain weight despite all the exercise. Fantastic greens and vegies, great protein, and a terrifyingly good baker. Our room was adequate, not great. Did not bother me because I spent no time in it. The bartender was glad to make us whatever drinks we wanted, and we so enjoyed the public space.
Excellent program with comfortable ambiance. Wonderful food & spirit of staff. Overall great experience
Whether I would tell friends to go is not a hypothetical question…I already have told friends about Total Tennis for years and plan on making a group trip at some point in future. Besides a fun day of tennis, the food stands out in my memory. I enjoy the rustic setting, and ease of the program (ease in the process not the drills). Wine & cheese mixers as an added extra are always nice, as well as meeting a lot of friendly guests (campers?). The instruction helped my game, but again my recollection is french toast, chicken wings & steak.
Total Tennis exceeded my expectations! It was a wonderful learning and social experience in a very down to earth environment which I appreciated. I like the un-fussey atmosphere of the place, the people, the players and the instructors.
My husband and I have been going to Total Tennis for almost 30 years and we attend 2-3 times per year. We love it!
This is a great little place with wonderful staff and very good food. I am part of a group that goes annually, and honestly….the place just gets better and better. For instance they just upgraded many of the rooms, to make your stay even more comfortable. I am looking forward to my next trip there.
All inclusive tennis camp chock full of good instruction in AM& PM. Community atmosphere during meals and free play. No worries where to eat. Just show up in dining room for good, healthy meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They even have a decent spa. It is worth the drive even from DC. Total Tennis is a Find.
Great food and service. Staff are very friendly and good instruction.
I went to total tennis in early fall. Tennis wasn’t tense the rooms and accommodations were very nice and the food was incredible. I can’t wait to go back again
I have been at least 10 times and can say that it is my favorite vacation ever! Even though it’s a little run down, the atmosphere is comfortable and clean. The food is well prepared, high quality, simple and delicious. Kudos to the chef and staff! Most of all, the tennis instruction is top notch and keeps me coming back for more. The court surfaces are well kept and in the Spring/Summer three different surfaces are offered. If my schedule and budget allowed, I would be there at least once a month.
Small balanced classes with experienced instructors. The food is a highlight with many choices. The rooms are comfortable. We had a great time!
Total Tennis is awesome! I have attended three different times over several years and have been pleased every time. The Strengths (don’t change a thing!): The lessons, the staff, the food! All of these deserve an A+ rating in my book! The Weaknesses: I would have written something about the facilities, but my most recent visit was spent in one of the renovated rooms…excellent! I have only been to Total Tennis in the winter, so this next point may be moot the rest of the year; There are a few “common” areas that are very underutilized. It’s nice to have something to do in the evenings but there is not anything planned in the winter months. Of course, this is a minor complaint as you really only need to bring a book and relax!
Best instruction I ever had. Friendly and very knowledgeable instructors & staff. Fantastic delicious and plentiful food. I recommend total tennis to all my tennis playing friends.
A great location in the scenic Catsklills. Tennis instruction was great, and the food was excellent.
Excellent cuisine Rooms are old
I have been going to Total Tennis for many years and have never been disappointed. It is nice to have a variety of court surfaces to play on…clay being my favorite as it is easy on your body for the many hours of tennis you can play during camp. They have fun instructors that make the time fly with many drills and games. The very best part of the camp is the food! Healthy, organic food with options available for all dietary choices. You will never be hungry. Don’t expect luxury accommodations…but that adds to the experience. Lots of fun people of all ages attend this camp.
Fantastic tennis trip, great lessons, great food
I have been going to Total Tennis for five years, since I started playing tennis. I love the community of tennis lovers I meet there every year. The instruction is top-notch and the food is delicious!
I love this tennis resort. The instruction was great, the setting spectacular and wonderful food. Lots of learning and lots of laughing…great holiday. The only thing that needed to be upgraded were the accommodations….and they have done that. I am looking forward to attending a tennis camp there this fall.
Enjoyable site. Facilities were excellent. Our instructor was able to adjust to our level and provide accurate feedback. All in all, it was an excellent experience.
fWe’ve enjoyed every visit to Toral Tennis going back to the days when they were in Easthampton, MA. We ha e been several times since they moved to Saugerties. The food has always been wholesome & delicious. Ed, his family and the staff make you feel very welcome. The instruction is fine and we’ve met lots of fun people who enjoy tennis as we do.. If you enjoy tennis & are not seeking Ritz Carlton accomodations, you’ll love this place.
Best tennis resort I’ve ever been to. Top notch tennis instruction, food, activities, and people! Enjoyed the pool and hot tub. Excellent value for what you get.
I had a great weekend at total tennis! The people were friendly. Rooms were clean. Pros were amazing. Food was outstanding. I want to go back – It’s been a while!
Whatever your level, if you like playing tennis, Total Tennis is a totally great way to spend a weekend. The clinics, are fun and innovative with the right amount of instruction to help you improve but not make you feel like you are in a drill camp. If you still want more tennis, they hold a round robin after the regular sessions are over and everyone gets one 1/2 hour private lesson. We usually go as a group of 4 or more, but my husband and I have gone just the two of us and were paired up with other compatible players. I think it would be a great place to go if you are single as well (especially on a singles weekend), as everyone is very friendly and you can’t help but meet people during the meals, clinics, cocktail hour and disco in the barn. Speaking of meals, the food is amazing! Served cafeteria style with a robust salad bar, as a pescatarian, there is always more than enough to fill me up!
I’d recommend going to Total Tennis at least once. They have great food, newly renovated lodging and many pros to choose from.
Fantastic coaches, fantastic and health good and the best post-workout massage you could ask for. My group has been going to Total Tennis for 8+ years and we continue to learn a ton and come back for more. Highly, highly recommend therm for all levels.
Intense clinic, great staff,delicious meals
The food is the best thing about Total Tennis. The lodging was adequate although outdated when I went the past consecutive 4 years but I understand it has since been renovated. The instructions can be hit or miss depending on which instructor you get. Overall, a positive experience and I’d go back especially now that the rooms have been renovated.
My daughter and I have many fond memories of Total Tennis. We are trying to coordinate schedules now to plan a return trip. Would go every Christmas holiday and leave the day after Christmas. Love the friendliness of all the staff, the country feel of the place, fresh air. The tennis lessons keep you very busy and focused. I don’t know which is better, the quality of the food or the tennis lessons. Both are superior!! Loved every minute we were there. They also have a spa onsite which was great for getting an after tennis massage. Loved the hot stone massage! Have always been for the indoor tennis. Have practiced outside when the weather was agreeable. I heard about this resort from a tennis enthusiast friend who goes every other weekend just about. He loves it so much!
How excellent the pro’s are and how much they help improve your game. The courts are great and you can chose soft if you prefer over hard courts. The food is outstanding!!!
Best tennis camp out there.
I believe Total Tennis employs very knowledgeable professionals. My friends and I have taken away many good pointers, incorporating them in our daily matches. However, I would change the tennis schedule at Total Tennis. There should be two afternoon sessions instead of one. There’s too much down time in the afternoon and not enough other activities to fill the void.
Tennis is awesome setting is great and food is outstanding! Looking forward to going back soon!
An outstanding value in every respect. 5+ hours on-court per-day with 1 instructor per 4 students. A perfect ratio for many reasons. The tennis instruction is first-rate. Lots of outdoor courts (hard, clay, simulated-grass). Indoor courts available for foul-weather instruction. Each day, all 3-meals are artfully prepared with lots of dietary variability. You will not go hungry here. In fact, you must take care to not over-eat! BYOB or purchase wine for your meals. Optional social activities at night (eg, a dance), ping-pong, pool, etc. Rooms are comfortable and clean (not large, but adequate). I am astonished that you can go here for 3 (or more) days for the low prices they charge.It’s an incredible tennis value. Sign-up massages available. Note: This is a Tennis Camp, not a spa/resort. But as a Tennis camp, it is *very* special.
Loads of tennis. Not luxurious or pretentious. Camp atmosphere with outstanding food and lots of instruction
I’ve been to Total Tennis 3 times. Been happy each and every time. Instructors are excellent, as is the food. I know they are working on upgrading accommodations, which is great. I’ll be back this summer. It’s also a GREAT value.