We actually stayed at the campground (Briar Campground) that is attached to the resort via a short foot bridge, however, we used the restaurants and amenities at the resort during our stay there.
The park itself is beautiful. There is a great campground (see my other review) and marina that is top notch. In addition, the lodge itself is very nice, and reminds me of an upscale ski lodge. Beautiful high ceilings, and a huge "a" frame wood design makes for a comfortable living space. The lobby has a HUGE fireplace that had a very large, and beautiful, fire in it at all times. There are two restaurants in the resort, and they are both linked to this review. The food is moderate, however, it is moderately priced as well - so there is a match.
The spa. So, if you look at pictures online, the spa is amazing and looks phenomenal. So, in reality, the spa looks to be an after thought. It can be found directly inside the main entrance to the lobby. We had a couples massage there, and were taken around a bamboo divider to fill out paperwork. As we were sitting there, we could see the very modest "salon" (2 stools) and manicure stations (2 as well). When it was time to be taken to our private spa room for the massage, we walked back out into the lobby, and down the main hall to a guest room - not exactly a "spa like setting." Once we got into the room, it was very spa-like, however, the trip there was not at all.
After the massage, we went to the mens locker room, downstairs, and down the hall - requiring us to get dressed and head out into "public" once again. When we got to the locker room, we were asked to pay $8 a day, for up to four people to use the pool and hot tub. Even after we argued for several minutes, and complained to the front desk and spa manager about this "nuisance charge" they were imposing, I was told there was nothing they can do. Finally we walked back down to pay the stupid fee, and were greeted by another lady at the pools that allowed us to walk right in without paying. Made me almost crazy.
Overall, it was an "OK" resort with "OK" amenities. Viewing the resort as an amenity to the campground, it is a wonderful addition. This would not be a final destination for us, however, as stated above, we stayed in the attached campground and had our own agenda. read more