Which DVC resort is the most eye popping, jaw dropping gorgeous? [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

Sammie

10-13-2006, 09:02 PM

utahkennedys

10-13-2006, 09:26 PM

chris1gill

10-13-2006, 10:36 PM

That is a very hard question, in that one SSR is not finished.

VWL and BCV were added on to existing resorts so any Wow they have, they borrowed. The DVC section alone is ok but not grand.

OKW while, I love this place for it's serentity and attention to detail, you really feel you are in Key West, does not have a wow due to being so spread out.

So I would have to say by elimination of the others, BW Villas. It was and is a beautiful resort from the day it opened.

I agree with Sammie on this one... I think SSR runs a close second though... when you walk into the lobby, it is quite grand....

My only other comment would be that everyone who has been to Vero has said it is quite beautiful... someone else will have to comment on that firsthand.

Hmm, it is tradition to bash the new resort, but I won't start that quite yet :teeth:

Beca

10-13-2006, 10:42 PM

Many people are "Wow'd" by the grandeur of VWL lobby...especially at Christmastime.

For me, I was most impressed by the view of BCV (my favorite resort), as you looked at it over SAB. The pirate ship, the bridges, the waterfalls, the sandy beaches, all with a backdrop of a sky blue building. Does it actually belong to BC and not BCV...sure, but hey...it's still ours, too!!

However, I do agree with Sammie...the BWV lobby is very pretty. The only thing I don't like about it is that it seems small, probably due to the fact that all of the shopping opportunities are outside.

They're all pretty in their own way. You just have to decide exactly what "Wow" factor you are looking for.

disney-super-mom

10-14-2006, 12:41 AM

They're all pretty in their own way. You just have to decide exactly what "Wow" factor you are looking for.
Hi Beca, it's so good to hear from you. :thumbsup2 I hear what you're all saying. They are all pretty in their own way. I'm just trying to get that final bit of influence from all of you because...

...yes, I know it's unbelievable, but I've finally made the decision to rent some points and check out the DVC resorts, make our first trip to WDW...

...AND, make our first trip away from our kids (DS 7 and DS 3).

I thought it would be a great Christmas present to my DH - a surprise trip to WDW and a DVC resort! :cool1: He's going to be blown away!

I'm only planning on a four night trip in late January, but it'll be enough time for us to explore the DVC resorts, relax and spend some quality time together, and make a trip into Epcot, maybe the Animal Kingdom, and if we have time, I'd really like to check out the Magic Kingdom a bit and see that HUGE castle in real life! :banana:

I just want it to be really special for us. Unforgettable! So, if I have a choice of resorts, I want it to be the right choice for my DH.

I've tried to discreetly pick his brain, but he's no help whatsoever. :rolleyes: He likes BCV for SAB, he likes VWL because he thinks it looks cool, and he likes SSR and OKW because he LOVES golf (although I'm not planning on any golf for this trip :goodvibes ). He doesn't say much about BWV, but regardless of how I phrase this question on the Disboards, the majority always say that BWV is the place to stay for a romantic couples trip.

Well, I may have nothing to worry about anyway. My choices of resorts at this late point in time maybe limited. It won't really matter though. I know we'll be thrilled no matter which DVC resort we can stay at! :sunny:

Beca

10-14-2006, 12:59 AM

Hi Beca, it's so good to hear from you. :thumbsup2

Yes, I know....my BCV obsession is still very present!!! I guess some things never change!!! :goodvibes

Since you have mulled this over so much, I TRULY believe that you probably already have some "leanings" as to where you're feeling pulled. Don't let anyone talk you into anything....try to book the resort that sounds magical to you.

I think I actually answered on your "romantic" thread that BWV would be the place to stay for couples....but, that is just generic couples. For dh and I, there would be no more romantic place than BCV (well, except for maybe the castle itself ;) ).

Don't be "reasoned" into a decision...just think with your heart...I have a sneaking suspicion you already know what resort would appeal most to you!!

Enjoy your trip!!!

slp87

10-14-2006, 07:08 AM

Although we've never stayed there, I think the WL. Even though what gives me the "wow" isn't necessarily the DVC section, it's the whole package. It's so removed and unique that you truly feel transported to Yosemite. As you drive up and see the building it's just amazing. The lobby is fabulous and always filled with activity. Every trip we go over for a meal and walk around the grounds.

lenshanem

10-14-2006, 07:17 AM

I'd put them in this order -
VWL
BWV
BCV
SSR
OKW

Once AKV opens I bet I'd put it up there with VWL.

Slakk

10-14-2006, 07:37 AM

I love SSR and then OKW although they are pretty much a tie - I prefer the DVC pure properties because they give me the *Welcome Home* feeling and the landscaping and theming is just purer than any of the shared resorts.

Call me selfish but when I go to WDW it is to soak up the atmosphere of being HOME where the other resorts share space with people on vacation (hope that makes sense).

After that they are just hotels.

greenban

10-14-2006, 07:39 AM

I was just wondering which DVC resort at WDW, above all the rest, gives a person who's never seen it before that "WOW, this is most beautiful place I've ever seen!" reaction?

My Resort!!!

For the Christmas Holidays (IMHO) VWL,

Next BWV.

-Tony

starbox

10-14-2006, 07:45 AM

VWL is visually stunning and central enough that you get the full "WOW" effect as soon as you walk in the lobby.

goofy4tink

10-14-2006, 07:45 AM

When dh surprised me by telling me he had made arrangements at the Polynesian DVC desk for them to call me and discuss buying DVC, he said the only resort he was interested in being at was BWV. We like all the others, although we haven't actually been to OKW yet. But he felt that BWV had a more adult feel to it, it was a bit less 'Disneyfied' and seemed more like a regular resort. Of course, I had no problem with his 'demands'!!!!

Love BWV the most....we just love the feel there. BCV are nice but we like the formality of BWV. VWL are wonderful....we love the lobby there, but the actual villas are a bit too 'rustic' or 'western' for our tastes. Can't wait to see what they do at VAK!!

jade1

10-14-2006, 08:03 AM

VWL is visually stunning and central enough that you get the full "WOW" effect as soon as you walk in the lobby.

Same here. :thumbsup2

Our parents could not believe when we checked into VWL followed by a close second when we got in our rooms at BWV and looked out over the BW View of SE at night. 2 great DVC moments, and for them to say "I can see why you guys come here so often, what a great investment" and they still do, is a really good feeling.

sheryl0521

10-14-2006, 08:46 AM

Our favorite list:
BCV
BWV
SSR
VWL
OKW

veenstra56

10-14-2006, 10:50 AM

I was just wondering which DVC resort at WDW, above all the rest, gives a person who's never seen it before that "WOW, this is most beautiful place I've ever seen!" reaction?

All things considered, I believe that BWV is the one resort that would 'wow' someone the most. VWL has the greatest lobby by a mile, BCV has the nicest pool in most people's opinion, and lots of folks think that OKW is the most comfortable. But I think that BWV is the most spectacuar looking resort.

When looking at things other than curb appeal, it may not (or may) be the best resort overall, but if I want to bowl someone over when it comes to DVC, then this is the resort I show them first.

Muushka

10-14-2006, 11:17 AM

I was just wondering which DVC resort at WDW, above all the rest, gives a person who's never seen it before that "WOW, this is most beautiful place I've ever seen!" reaction?

VWL. The quiet resort.

In spite of all of it's 'impurities' and 'added on to-idness' :rotfl: :thumbsup2

bmalonef45

10-14-2006, 03:07 PM

While making our minds up to purcahse DVC on a weekend trip last Oct. DW and I toured all 5 properties on site and then drove out to Vero. Although we didn't go to the Lobby of BWV I would have to say that VWL was our biggest WOW moment. I know the Lobby isn't strictly DVC, but still you show me one person who hasn't strained their neck upon entering that lobby for the first time. As far as the rooms go we have only stayed in a 1bdrm at OKW but the size made my kids chant OKW rules! Pretty cool for a 6yo and 3yo! I can't wait to hear them when they see the pool at BCV next month. Each resort offers something different and that is why we joined. Vero is really nice but also really out on its own. We plan to take a relaxing beach trip there soon so hopefully we will appreciate it even more then.

Simba's Mom

10-14-2006, 03:35 PM

That is what my very-well traveled father said when we checked into our 2BR villa at OKW. Of course it didn't hurt that we had a golf course view and he is a golf nut! OKW may not be luxuriously stunning, but it is very beautiful to me.
DH reacted the same way the first time he walked into a 2 BR at OKW also, and he's also a golf nut. He came from VWL, which he thought was just "OK". However, I'll bet you'd get people who'd react just the opposite way-think VWL is jaw dropping gorgeous, OKW is just "OK". I think BWV is jaw dropping gorgeous, but I'd rather stay at BCV. Guess I go for more comfy than gorgeous.

CapeCodFam

10-14-2006, 04:36 PM

While not a a DVC, we always marvel the most at the Walt Disney World sign as we enter the property. After that, it's all good. :thumbsup2

Par8hed

10-14-2006, 04:50 PM

The correct answer is VB! Most of you probably have not been there. But for the pure "wow" factor VB is the best. Lush,lush vegetation. Beautiful lawns. Impressive architecture. And the sight and sound of the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop doesn't hurt.
I think most of the onsite properties are beautiful, but they can't match Vero scenicly.

disney-super-mom

10-14-2006, 05:36 PM

Well, I may have nothing to worry about anyway. My choices of resorts at this late point in time maybe limited. It won't really matter though. I know we'll be thrilled no matter which DVC resort we can stay at! :sunny:
It looks like I was right. According to a nice Disboard member who PM'd me today, the only resort we can book is SSR! :thumbsup2

It sure looks beautiful in the pictures. I can hardly wait to see it, and to see my husbands face when he sees it! :banana:

We're going to visit all the DVC resorts while were there, so we'll still be able to "OOOOH & AHHHHH!" when we see the gorgeousness of the other resorts, and we'll probably eat at a few of the restaurants at those resorts too.

So, SSR HERE WE COME! :cheer2:

mamatojon

10-14-2006, 06:49 PM

It looks like I was right. According to a nice Disboard member who PM'd me today, the only resort we can book is SSR! :thumbsup2

It sure looks beautiful in the pictures. I can hardly wait to see it, and to see my husbands face when he sees it! :banana:

We're going to visit all the DVC resorts while were there, so we'll still be able to "OOOOH & AHHHHH!" when we see the gorgeousness of the other resorts, and we'll probably eat at a few of the restaurants at those resorts too.

So, SSR HERE WE COME! :cheer2:

It is beautiful! Elegant and upscale. I think it is perfect for an adult trip. Downtown Disney has some great places to dine and shop and just stroll along. I think you will have a great time! They might have the new building open then too, I think they said January in the newsletter.

Sammie

10-14-2006, 09:21 PM

It looks like I was right. According to a nice Disboard member who PM'd me today, the only resort we can book is SSR! :thumbsup2

It sure looks beautiful in the pictures. I can hardly wait to see it, and to see my husbands face when he sees it! :banana:

We're going to visit all the DVC resorts while were there, so we'll still be able to "OOOOH & AHHHHH!" when we see the gorgeousness of the other resorts, and we'll probably eat at a few of the restaurants at those resorts too.

So, SSR HERE WE COME! :cheer2:

it is a beautiful resort and at this time our favorite. Wow factor is in the eye of the beholder. I have stayed at all the DVC resorts several times including Vero Beach and HHI and SSR is a great place. I think it has the most attractive decor in the villas of any of the locations.

Have a great time.

bobbiwoz

10-15-2006, 06:52 AM

Enjoy your visit to SSR. If you don't have a view of DTD from your villa, be sure to go to the water and look across at night. DTD looks absolutely gorgeous with twinkling lights in the clear atmosphere of the area.

Bobbi :banana:

PS. One of my favorite views of childhood is gazing at NYC from Hoboken at night, with the twinkling and the reflection on the water.

cobbler

10-15-2006, 08:21 AM

I think SSR will be very very pretty once all the construction is done.

It's sort of not so nice right now when you first enter the resort and see construction going on.

I think the Grand Stand area will give Congress Park a run for it's money.

I do like the VWL lobby too, very nice :)

BC is ok, OKW not so much.

Haven't seen BW, HHI or VB though.

disney-super-mom

10-15-2006, 08:42 PM

Where is the Grand Stand section located at SSR?

Also, does anyone happen to know when the Grand Stand section is going to be completed and open?

DisDaydreamer

10-16-2006, 06:25 AM

WOW! Tough question. (not in any particular order)

VWL - WOW what a lobby and grounds
BCV - WOW what a pool
OKW - WOW what a room
BWV - WOW what a location
VB - WOW what a vacation
HHI - WOW what nature lovers dream
SSR - WOW I haven't been there yet.

WOW - what a great decision we made :thumbsup2

Chloe'sMom

10-16-2006, 10:30 AM

Beca

10-16-2006, 10:36 AM

I would have to say the one that has impressed me the most is BCV
~Amanda

Yeah, me too!!! :goodvibes

:lmao: (Sorry, folks...I just couldn't help it!!)

Beca

Sammie

10-16-2006, 12:51 PM

I would have to say the one that has impressed me the most is BCV - but I saw it at Christmas. :) SSR seems so plain to me, and I don't like the fact that they dont' have a decent sit down resturant. VWL are okay - I like parts of the lobby at VWL - the fireplace, the height, and the music are all wonderful. I don't like that Whispering Canyon is somewhat in the lobby and the rooms remind me of camping. However their Courtyard area is absolutley breath taking. I haven't seen Old Key West or BWV.

~Amanda

Did you not like the food selections at the Turf Club, because I can not imagine anyone not liking the decor, we found it very attractive.

And while the menu was not extensive we found what they offered very good and they are suppose to expand the menu. The chicken and turf potatoes were very good and I have read good reviews on the steak.

EricaLovesMickey

10-16-2006, 12:58 PM

Hands down....Wilderness Lodge. Nothing beats the granduer of walking in to the grand lobby. It is inspiring!

psu4glory

10-16-2006, 02:44 PM

we haven't stayed in all of the DVC resorts - but have visited and viewed the grounds of all of them several times.

even though we decided to purchase at BWV, i'd have to vote for VWL as the most visually stunning. coming through the security gate, rounding the bend, and seeing that enormous lodge set in the woods is an amazing feeling...and when you come through the front doors into the lobby (especially when your first time is during the christmas holiday!).....there's nothing i could think of that could compare.

cseca

10-16-2006, 02:51 PM

WLV to me...
We've always wanted to stay at BWV but couldn't afford it of course.
Then we had a postcard code at WL... and fell in love with it immediately.

Took the DVC tour that week, bought into BWV.
Then I kept dreaming about WL being a DVC resort.
Lo and behold the next resort was WLV.
We add on the minute it was selling.... :)

Never regretted every single point...

TLinden16

10-16-2006, 03:27 PM

I'd have to go with the Boardwalk and the Beach Club. I never grow tired of sitting along the Boardwalk and just looking at these two resorts--particularly at night.

Tinkaroo

10-16-2006, 03:52 PM

It looks like I was right. According to a nice Disboard member who PM'd me today, the only resort we can book is SSR! :thumbsup2

It sure looks beautiful in the pictures. I can hardly wait to see it, and to see my husbands face when he sees it! :banana:

We're going to visit all the DVC resorts while were there, so we'll still be able to "OOOOH & AHHHHH!" when we see the gorgeousness of the other resorts, and we'll probably eat at a few of the restaurants at those resorts too.

So, SSR HERE WE COME! :cheer2:

I don't think you'll be disappointed. DH and I bought SSR earlier this year - and while we definitely liked it enough to buy it when we did the tour, we were gloriously surprised how much we LOVED it when staying there this past March. The lobby and main building are beautiful, and the grounds have such a peaceful feel. We got the best of both worlds - we were in Congress Park with a view of DTD, so we could walk around the grounds for a "country respite" feeling, but then look out over the lights of DTD to be reminded where we were, after all.

Have fun!!!

Beca

10-16-2006, 11:19 PM

Did you not like the food selections at the Turf Club, because I can not imagine anyone not liking the decor, we found it very attractive.

And while the menu was not extensive we found what they offered very good and they are suppose to expand the menu. The chicken and turf potatoes were very good and I have read good reviews on the steak.

Okay, I guess we are just different. We didn't care for the decor at SSR. Granted, we only saw the GV, but the dark wood and orange and yellow decor did not do it for us. However, the Turf club and Artists' Palette both sound really yummy to me. We may have to go over there sometime just to eat!!!

disneybride96

10-17-2006, 06:23 AM

SSR seems so plain to me, and I don't like the fact that they dont' have a decent sit down resturant.

Have you been to Turf Club since they expanded? It was our favorite TS in Septemeber and the only one we are returning to in January. Awesome!

Fitswimmer

10-17-2006, 07:54 AM

Whichever one I'm staying in!
My first DVC experience was a visit to VB with a DVC member and I was blown away by the resort, the theming and the CM's! That visit was a big part of my choice to join.
Right after I bought into SSR, I took my parents for a quick visit to OKW-WOW, gorgeous! We stayed in a 2 bedroom villa and just LOVED it.
Last month, I visited HHI for 5 days-loved that too! The 40's music, the Swimmin' Hole, the marsh views...ahhhh.
Now in 39 days, I make my first trip HOME and I know I'll think that's the most beautiful place ever.
Wherever I am in DVC, is the most wonderful place on Earth!!!