VWL resevation!!!!!!!

[Paticake]

I just booked VWL for our anniversary in April!!!!!! I was surprised to pretty much have my choice of resorts! So now tell me about VWL!

 

[dianeschlicht]

Woodsy, quiet, maybe a bit dark, wonderful atmosphere, close to MK and a bit too much like my own home for me. If you like the lodge look, you'll love it. We always go over to WL for at least one Artist Point meal. I also love the main pool there.

 

[dianeschlicht]

BTW, just wanted to give you a heads up about that VWL anniversary. If you make a DR at ARtist Point and let them know it is for an anniversary, they will give you their signature dessert on the house! We were there for our 35th and were pleasantly surprised by this! It's a wonderful berry cobbler with the biggest fresh blackberries I have ever seen!

 

[Paticake]

Thank you for that info. We haven't eaten at AP in about 8 years. We will have to try it!

 

[sleepydog25]

I'm sure if you lived in Minnesota or the Pacific Northwest, then VWL wouldn't be as exciting an option. However, since you don't, then you're in for a real treat. VWL is quiet. . .an oasis of a retreat after spending the day rubbing elbows with thousands of your closest friends in the parks. The colors are mostly dark red, green, and brown, so if you want vibrant, pastel colors then VWL won't do much more you. If you like the lodge feel and theme, however, then you'll love VWL.

There are two pools: the main pool located behind and down from the main lobby and Hidden Springs pool which is the one closest to the Villas. There is a hot spa there, too. Both the Hidden Springs pool and spa are always much less crowded than the main pool and spa--a bonus given this is an anniversary trip for you. If you like to bike, the bike rental shop is just off the Hidden Springs pool area; you can also rent boats there. A nearly mile-long walking trail heads over to FW, and it can be quite romantic at night.

Whispering Canyon Cafe is well-loved by many, though to be honest, we thought it overrated in terms of food, service, and the fun factor. Roaring Forks Grill, on the other hand, has a nice little selection of pre-made meals and hot off the grill selections, too. Best of all, is Artist Point. We love the ambience, the food, the wine list (small but loaded with good wines), and the service. We never miss eating there. After the meal, take a stroll along the pier to catch the fireworks, the electric water parade, and the geyser. Sit on a beach chair. Stroll down the trail to FW. Gawk at the lobby. Enjoy a drink in the Territory Lounge.

We love VWL, and I think you will, too. It's a fairly quick boat ride away from MK, and we've always had good success with the buses, too. I feel certain that you will feel at home at VWL. Congrats and have fun! aw:

 

[jimmytammy]

VWL is my home resort.

A couple of things I will add......1st and foremost. As soon as you check in and know your room #, go to the Guest service area which is just left of check in and ask to be the flag family during your stay. This allows you to go the tip top of WL and help Ranger Stan raise the flags for that day. It is quite an experience with great views of the whole World. It makes for an early morning, but is definitely worth it if you can get it. Be flexible if any days are available.

Another thing we enjoy is setting in the Iron Spike Room. It is just off from the lobby area of the Villas. Comfy leather rockers by the fireplace makes for a romantic setting. You can play checkers/chess in there also.

A couple other sorta minor things but still part of the ambience of WL is listening to the music from soundtracks of Dances with Wolves, The Magnificent Seven, Field of Dreams along with several others that dont come to mind right now. It blends into the experience. And listen for the crickets at night as you walk the paths around the pool areas, especially the quiet pool while spotting all the paw prints from different animals. The lighting flickering adds to the mood.

Man I wish I was there right now. Im homesick.

 

[sleepydog25]

Yes, I forgot to mention the music, one of my favorite things about VWL (and all of WL). The soundtrack is made up of dashes of movie western themes and liberal amounts of Aaron Copland's music from his compositions Billy the Kid and Appalachian Spring--two classical pieces of Americana by one of our finest contemporary composers. The music is haunting, lovely, and inspirational all at once. It's one of the first things you notice when arriving, the last thing you hear upon departure, and it continues to reverberate in your soul for weeks after. Enjoy! aw:

 

[dianeschlicht]

I always associate Copland's music with WL. It is a favorite of mine, and something I always notice when we visit there.

 

[Paticake]

Can"t wait! We stayed at the Lodge a few times before becoming DVC members and loved it. Haven't been there in 5 years or so. We are really excited to stay at the villas. Thanks for all the info!! I think we will eat at Artist Point for our anniversary.