Last time we ran through the quick and dirty version of the deluxe resorts at Walt Disney World. Big WDW fans may already know, there’s another set of deluxe resorts – the villas! These options are great for large families and afford many of the same luxuries as the deluxe resorts.
“Add-On” Villa Resorts
Since the recent addition of villas at Disney’s Polynesian Villas, all deluxe resorts save Disney’s Yacht Club now have a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) component. Despite being branded as DVC accommodations, any guest can stay at these resorts on cash, and general promotions also tend to be applicable, as well.
The pros and cons that apply to their non-DVC counterparts tend to apply to these resorts, as well. The room view options may vary, though. For example, the Beach Club Villas wouldn’t be able to offer a lake view, as it doesn’t have any buildings facing Crescent Lake. Many of the DVC resorts do offer the same views, though. Chances are, if you enjoy the standard options at a certain deluxe resorts, the DVC offerings won’t disappoint.
Get Resort Wise: Not a DVC member but looking to save a little? Consider renting points to make the most of your dollars.
There are also some standalone DVC villas which frequent guests of the Walt Disney World resorts, who aren’t DVC members, may not be aware of.
Old Key West
Old Key West offers the tranquil and quiet mood of the Florida Keys. Spectacular views and park adjacency aren’t the reason you stay here, though, but you will enjoy some of the largest rooms on property! There is boat service to Downtown Disney, but otherwise you’re bus or car-bound. While not overwhelmingly popular with the non-DVC crowd, this resort does offer some great pools, yummy dining and a calm respite from the parks. As with other villas, you also get the added bonus of home-like accommodations. With most units offering a full kitchen (studios offer a small kitchenette), families can definitely save by keeping a stock of food for breakfasts in the room and maybe even a dinner or two. Villas also feature a washer/dryer for those light packers who prefer to throw in some laundry mid-trip.
Saratoga Springs
If you’re an equestrian, this is the resort for you! With whimsical homages to Disney’s horses (there are a lot!) and their unique attention to detail, you can definitely feel the throwback to early upstate New York. Also offering boat service to Downtown Disney and bus service to all other locations, Saratoga Springs does stand out a bit over Old Key West for me because of the variety of pool areas and the recent refurbishments giving it that nice, new feel. Golfers and joggers alike will love the proximity to Lake Buena Vista Golf Course for world class golfing and a mile of jogging trails.
Get Resort Wise: Traveling with a large group? Consider a villa! One-bedrooms sleep five, two-bedrooms sleep eight and grand villas sleep up to 12! These are typically much lower priced than suites and offer more in terms of home living amenities.
Treehouse Villas
The newest part of Saratoga Springs (or should I say latest addition, as the Treehouses do have a long Disney World history) are the super fun Treehouse Villas! These three-bedroom elevated villas are perfect for families traveling together or other large groups. I definitely suggest having your own transportation if you choose these unique rooms, as it’s a bit of an ordeal to utilize the bus system here. Each villa offers a deck, grill and parking spot in addition to the full kitchen, washer/dryer, three bedrooms, living room and two bathrooms. The views are rustic, as they’re right in the middle of the “woods,” but we lucked out and got a treehouse right on the river and loved watching the boats drift by our windows and deck, so if that sounds enticing, inquire at check-in. The Treehouses do have their own basic pool, but Treehouse guests are considered Saratoga Springs guests and may use any amenities over at the main resort.
Have you tried DVC living? What are your thoughts and tips?
What’s your favorite DVC resort at Walt Disney World?