Disney’s Riviera Resort is one of the newest and most luxurious Disney Vacation Club (DVC) properties at Walt Disney World, and it exudes the charm and elegance of a European escape. Inspired by Walt Disney’s travels throughout the Mediterranean, the resort captures the essence of the French and Italian Riviera with its sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere.
However, with this high-end design comes a premium price. As one of the more expensive resorts on-site, staying at Riviera is often seen as a splurge, though guests who pay for it often find it worth the cost, thanks to its unique offerings, prime location, and luxury amenities.
Key Highlights of Disney’s Riviera Resort
1. Luxurious Accommodations
The accommodations at Disney’s Riviera Resort are beautifully appointed, with rooms that feature elegant decor reminiscent of the Mediterranean coast. Room types range from Deluxe Studios to 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, catering to various party sizes and travel preferences.
- Room Design: The rooms are spacious and modern, with subtle nods to Disney animation through artwork and other details. The blend of sophisticated design with Disney whimsy makes the resort feel both upscale and magical.
- In-Room Amenities: Every room includes thoughtful amenities like kitchenettes (in studios) or full kitchens (in larger suites), perfect for guests who prefer to prepare some meals themselves.
Key Tip: For smaller families or couples, the Tower Studios are a unique and intimate option, though they come at a premium and are smaller in size.
2. Prime Location and Skyliner Access
One of the resort’s best perks is its proximity to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios via the Disney Skyliner. The Skyliner is located just steps away from the resort, providing easy and quick transportation to these parks. This feature is a major draw for park-goers who want convenient, scenic transportation that avoids the crowds of buses.
- EPCOT Access: A short Skyliner ride takes you to EPCOT’s International Gateway, allowing quick access to the World Showcase and Future World.
- Hollywood Studios Access: Riviera also provides a direct route to Hollywood Studios via the Skyliner, making it a fantastic choice for guests who plan to visit these two parks frequently during their stay.
Key Tip: Consider staying at Riviera if EPCOT and Hollywood Studios are your priority parks. The Skyliner makes commuting between the resort and these parks extremely convenient, particularly for rope-dropping or attending nighttime events.
3. Dining at Riviera Resort
Dining at Riviera is exceptional, with options that range from quick-service meals to upscale character dining.
- Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera: This signature rooftop restaurant offers a character breakfast in the morning featuring Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy in their adorable artist costumes. The breakfast is a popular option and offers spectacular views alongside delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes.At night, Topolino’s Terrace transforms into an elegant dining experience, featuring dishes like hand-crafted pasta, seafood, and artisanal cheeses. With sweeping views of the parks, it’s a great spot to catch a glimpse of the nighttime fireworks at EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
- Le Petit Café: Located in the lobby, this quaint café offers European-style pastries, coffee, and wine, making it a charming spot for a casual bite or drink.
- Bar Riva: An open-air poolside bar that serves up light meals and cocktails. It’s a great place to relax after a day at the parks or to enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the pool.
Key Tip: Topolino’s Terrace is one of the most coveted dining reservations at Walt Disney World, so be sure to book early if you want to experience the character breakfast or dinner here.
4. Beautiful Theming and Atmosphere
The overall atmosphere of Riviera Resort is tranquil and elegant, with European-inspired architecture, gardens, and art scattered throughout the property. From the moment you step into the lobby, you’ll be greeted by a gallery of Disney artwork inspired by European masterpieces, setting the tone for the sophisticated experience ahead.
- Riviera Mosaics: One of the highlights is the stunning mosaic murals located near the Skyliner station. These mosaics depict scenes from Tangled and Peter Pan, with incredible artistry that adds to the resort’s charm.
- Resort Grounds: The grounds of Riviera Resort are immaculate, featuring beautiful landscaping, fountains, and gardens that are perfect for a peaceful stroll or an evening by the fire pits.
Key Tip: The rooftop terrace at Topolino’s Terrace offers some of the best views on Disney property, and it’s well worth stepping up there, even if you aren’t dining at the restaurant.
5. Pools and Recreation
While smaller than some other Deluxe resorts, Riviera’s pool area is serene and family-friendly, offering both a main pool and a quieter pool area for guests seeking more relaxation.
- Riviera Pool: The resort’s main pool features a waterslide that winds through a rocky outcrop, as well as a children’s play area called S’il Vous Play. The play area is inspired by European public fountains, offering interactive water features for kids to enjoy.
- Beau Soleil Pool: For those looking for a quieter experience, the Beau Soleil Pool offers a more peaceful setting with plenty of seating for relaxing by the water.
Key Tip: While the pools at Riviera are beautiful and fun for families, they are smaller compared to the more elaborate pools at resorts like Yacht Club or Polynesian Village Resort. However, they still offer a great place to relax after a day at the parks.
Downsides of Disney’s Riviera Resort
1. High Cost
As one of Disney World’s newest and most luxurious resorts, Riviera comes with a steep price tag. Many guests find that the price per night is higher than even some of the more established Deluxe resorts. While the resort offers luxury accommodations, top-tier dining, and convenient transportation, it’s important to factor the higher cost into your budget.
Key Tip: If you’re looking to save money, consider splitting your stay between Riviera and a less expensive resort, such as Pop Century or Art of Animation, to balance out the costs while still experiencing the luxury of Riviera.
2. Limited Resort-Specific Activities
While Riviera offers beautiful surroundings and great dining, some guests have noted that it lacks the variety of resort-specific activities found at other Deluxe resorts. Unlike Animal Kingdom Lodge, which has animal viewing, or Wilderness Lodge, with its themed activities, Riviera’s offerings are more focused on relaxation and dining.
Key Tip: If you’re looking for a more immersive resort experience with plenty of activities to fill your downtime, you may want to consider other Deluxe resorts that cater to more hands-on experiences.
Final Thoughts: Is Disney’s Riviera Resort Worth It?
Disney’s Riviera Resort is a top-tier choice for guests who are looking for a luxurious, European-inspired escape with modern amenities and prime access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. The Skyliner transportation, elegant dining options, and sophisticated decor make it a standout resort, especially for those looking for a peaceful retreat within the Disney bubble.
However, with its higher price point and somewhat limited activities compared to other Deluxe resorts, Riviera may not be the best fit for every Disney traveller. It’s ideal for guests who prioritise luxury, dining, and convenience but may not appeal as much to those looking for extensive resort activities or budget-friendly options.
If you can fit it into your budget and are looking for a high-end Disney experience, Disney’s Riviera Resort offers a sophisticated and tranquil stay, making it one of the most desirable new properties at Walt Disney World.
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