Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is a Deluxe Villa property at Walt Disney World, offering a picturesque setting inspired by the famous upstate New York horse racing town, Saratoga Springs. Known for its equestrian-themed decor, sprawling layout, and close proximity to Disney Springs, this resort provides a unique, tranquil experience with plenty of recreation and leisure activities for families and groups. The large villas and quiet atmosphere make Saratoga Springs a solid choice for guests seeking both comfort and convenience, with the added benefit of being near the excitement of Disney Springs.
Key Highlights of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
1. Convenient Boat Transportation to Disney Springs
One of the standout features of Saratoga Springs is the boat transportation to Disney Springs. This short, scenic ride is a convenient and relaxing way to travel to Disney’s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
- Fun and Scenic: The boat ride is a pleasant journey along the Sassagoula River, offering beautiful views of the resort and the surrounding areas. It’s not only practical but also adds an element of fun to your stay.
- Walking Distance: In addition to the boat, guests can also enjoy a short walk to Disney Springs via a well-lit, pleasant pathway, making it even easier to pop over for dinner, shopping, or a night out.
Key Tip: Take advantage of the proximity to Disney Springs by planning your evenings at this lively district, allowing for easy access to entertainment without worrying about transportation logistics.
2. Spacious and Varied Accommodations
Saratoga Springs offers a range of accommodation options, from Deluxe Studios to Three-Bedroom Grand Villas, all designed with the resort’s equestrian theme in mind. The rooms are some of the most spacious across Disney World’s properties, making it an ideal resort for larger families or those seeking extra space to relax.
- Deluxe Studios: These rooms sleep up to four guests and come with kitchenettes, queen beds, and private balconies or patios.
- One-, Two-, and Three-Bedroom Villas: The villas feature full kitchens, living rooms, dining areas, and in-room laundry facilities. Two-Bedroom Villas can sleep up to nine guests, while Three-Bedroom Grand Villas can accommodate up to 12, offering plenty of room for large families or groups.
Key Tip: If you’re looking for peace and quiet, opt for a room in the Treehouse Villas, a unique accommodation type at Saratoga Springs. These standalone treehouse cabins are tucked away in a secluded area of the resort, providing a serene retreat.
3. Horse-Themed Decor and Equestrian Atmosphere
Themed after the historic horse racing culture of Saratoga Springs, New York, this resort embraces an equestrian aesthetic that is both tasteful and immersive.
- Theming: The decor throughout the resort is inspired by horse racing, with art and memorabilia paying homage to the sport. The gorgeous Victorian-style buildings and manicured gardens further enhance the resort’s unique charm.
Key Tip: Guests who appreciate a resort with a strong thematic identity will enjoy the subtle yet elegant horse racing motif found throughout Saratoga Springs.
4. Pools and Recreation
Saratoga Springs offers several pools and a variety of recreational activities, making it an excellent resort for guests who plan on spending time outside of the parks.
- High Rock Spring Pool: The resort’s main pool, featuring a waterfall, zero-entry access, and a waterslide, is a favourite among families. Nearby, there’s also a children’s splash area and a hot tub for relaxation.
- Quiet Pools: In addition to the main pool, there are several quiet pools scattered throughout the resort, providing a more peaceful swim for guests who want to avoid the crowds.
- On-Site Spa: As a Disney Vacation Club resort, Saratoga Springs boasts one of the best spas on property—Senses – A Disney Spa, where you can indulge in massages, facials, and other treatments.
- Golf Course: The resort is home to Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, providing an additional recreational option for golf enthusiasts.
Key Tip: Be sure to plan some time to explore the various recreation activities on-site. From the pool areas to the golf course, Saratoga Springs offers plenty to do for guests looking to relax outside of the parks.
5. Dining Options
While Saratoga Springs doesn’t have as many dining options as some of the larger resorts, it offers a few solid choices for guests who don’t want to venture to Disney Springs.
- The Artist’s Palette: This counter-service restaurant offers a variety of grab-and-go options as well as heartier meals, making it a convenient spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Turf Club Bar and Grill: For a sit-down meal, Turf Club offers a relaxed dining experience with views of the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. The menu features American cuisine, including steaks, seafood, and sandwiches.
Key Tip: With Disney Springs just a boat ride away, it’s easy to explore a wide range of dining options without feeling limited by the resort’s offerings.
Benefits of Staying at Saratoga Springs Resort
1. Quiet, Relaxing Atmosphere
The resort’s sprawling layout and lush landscaping create a tranquil, peaceful atmosphere that is a welcome respite from the busy parks. Guests who want a relaxing retreat will find Saratoga Springs to be an ideal escape.
2. Access to Disney Springs
Being just a short boat ride or walk away from Disney Springs is a huge plus for this resort. Guests can easily enjoy the best that Disney Springs has to offer without having to worry about buses or parking.
3. Spacious Rooms
The large villas and well-appointed rooms are a big draw for families and groups, providing plenty of space to relax after a day at the parks.
4. On-Site Spa and Golf Course
The Senses Spa and on-site golf course offer additional luxury touches that elevate the resort experience, giving guests even more reasons to spend time enjoying the amenities.
5. DVC Point Rentals
Like Old Key West, renting DVC points to stay at Saratoga Springs can make it a more affordable option for non-members. This allows you to enjoy the deluxe amenities at a reduced cost.
Downsides of Saratoga Springs Resort
1. Large and Spread-Out
The resort’s vast layout means that some rooms are quite far from the main amenities, such as the High Rock Spring Pool and Artist’s Palette. This can lead to long walks around the resort, which may not be ideal for all guests.
Key Tip: If proximity to amenities is important, request a room near the Carriage House, the resort’s central hub.
2. Bus-Only Transportation to Parks
Unlike some of the Magic Kingdom-area resorts or EPCOT-area resorts, Saratoga Springs relies entirely on buses for transportation to the parks, which may not be as convenient as resorts with monorail or Skyliner access.
Key Tip: The bus system can get busy, especially at peak times, so be sure to allow extra travel time when heading to the parks.
Final Thoughts: Is Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort Worth It?
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is a fantastic option for families, groups, and Disney Vacation Club members seeking a peaceful, spacious retreat with convenient access to Disney Springs. The boat transportation, serene atmosphere, and large accommodations make it a standout choice, particularly for those who appreciate a quieter resort experience. While the resort’s size and reliance on buses for park transportation might be drawbacks for some, its proximity to Disney Springs, excellent amenities, and expansive rooms more than make up for any inconveniences.
For those looking to maximise their stay, renting DVC points can make Saratoga Springs an even better value, allowing you to experience the resort’s luxurious villas and amenities at a lower cost. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, enjoying a treatment at the spa, or taking the boat over to Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs is a great place to unwind and enjoy a laid-back Disney holiday.
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