Escaping to the Riviera with a Disney Flair
Disney’s Riviera Resort Review:
One of the best things about visiting Walt Disney World is that everything tells a story. From park attractions to every resort. There is a story theme that is found throughout with no detail left unturned. This is part of the magic about Disney. Every time you walk down Mainstreet or through the resort grounds, you find different parts to the story. As Travel Advisors, we are asked what resort is best to stay at? There is a lot more to consider than just room type and amenities. We need to keep in mind the “story”. That is what makes staying at a Disney resort so amazing, it is not your local chain motel. You may start to find that you love the “story” of one particular resort, or you want to experience the stories of all the other resorts.
Disney’s newest property, The Riviera Resort, is a “story” that is told with a European and French Riviera feel. As you approach the resort and walk through the front doors, you automatically feel the European elegance. From the marble flooring and posts to the décor, there is a good balance of a classical and modern luxury feel. Although, the lobby appears smaller and less grandiose than other deluxe resorts, it stays true to the “storytelling” of a European property.
As you stroll through the halls and grounds, the walls are adorned with pictures of Walt Disney and his wife visiting Europe. As well as vibrant paintings of some of our favorite characters and scenes. It truly is like a hunt to walk the halls and enjoy the art work, never knowing what you will find around the next corner. This theming is continued into each of the guest rooms as well. The most extravagant piece of art is the mosaic walls that are found on the grounds picturing landmarks from Rapunzel and Peter Pan. These are more than amazing…they are breathtaking.
Resort Amenities:
One of the greatest amenities staying at The Riviera is the Skyliner gondola transportation system. It has a hub right at the resort that will take you straight to Epcot. Then switch over at the Caribbean Beach Resort for access to Hollywood Studios. It is a very seamless and efficient way to get to the parks. As a result, you soar above where you are able to observe the Disney grounds like never before. Bus transportation is provided to the other theme parks.
Resort Rooms:
Since the Riviera is a Deluxe level resort that it is considered a Disney Vacation Club property. This means that most rooms will be either 1-, 2- or 3- bedroom villa. In addition, it offers Studio rooms for a more traditional set-up. These resort rooms continue to boast elegance with a modern feel, subtle Disney theming in their art and the size and space are amazing.
The Tower Studio sleeps 2 adults. It is quite different from most resort rooms where it offers one queen-sized bed that is located in the wall as a Murphy bed. A great option for adults to enjoy Disney with a grown-up feel.
The Deluxe Studio offers a standard and preferred view and sleeps up to 5 adults. With a 1 queen size bed, a queen sofa, and a single- pull down Murphy bed are in this room with a great space. In addition, it has a small kitchenette that hosts a small fridge and microwave.
Disney’s Riviera Resort Villas:
The Villas are like a “home away from home”. Not only are they all spacious and gorgeous, but they truly have all the amenities of home. Starting with a full kitchen to a living space for you to kick back and relax after the parks. The 2 and 3-bedroom Villas offer multiple bathrooms, bedrooms, and even a washer and dryer. The 1-bedroom Villas sleeps up to 5 adults which is great for those families that have more than just 2 kids!
This resort, like all Disney resorts have a theme pool that is fun for the whole family. As a deluxe, there is a water slide to keep the kids entertained., as well as daily pool activities. This resort also one offers a splash area for younger kids, and a relaxation pool that offers a quieter feel. In addition, for those who need a few more calories to burn, this resort offers a large on-site fitness center.
Resort Dining:
The dining here is beyond delicious, with a strong European and Mediterranean twist. La Petit Café, themed from the Aristocrats, has the feel of an authentic Parisian café. As a result, offering a variety of coffees and delicious treats. In addition, during the afternoon and evening you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and adult beverages. Primo Piatto is the quick-service option that has an American flair of all your typical quick bites and some specialties.
Toppolino’s – Flavors of the Riviera offers an extensive Italian and French menu. With an out of this world character breakfast featuring Mickey and his Friends with an artistic flare. Dinner here is “never second best”, offering an extensive, delectable menu that will keep you wanting to return for more. And Bar Riva offers the adult population the perfect way to unwind with a variety of cocktails and beverages.
The Riviera is not only a great combination of classical and modern elegance, it also has something to offer the adult crowd while keeping a relaxing, family feel. Reach out to your Travel Advisor to learn how you can enjoy the story of Disney’s Riviera.
By Deanna Macioce
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