We booked a stay here to enjoy a little babymoon and I'm really glad we did. It couldn't have come at a better time and I was glad to finally check this place out. I feel like because of the price, this isn't a place you just pop into. I'm sure most know, this is NOT a cheap place to stay.
I'm used to a "resort" being a tropical vacation aka an all-inclusive. This definitely isn't that, because you're not going to see any palm trees and everything around you is going to cost extra... But it's a massive property with lots to do on the grounds and in the Laurel Highlands. I couldn't help but compare this to Bedford Springs, as they're similar in terms of being close to Pittsburgh and also considered resorts.
We picked the "cheapest" option, which wasn't cheap at all, and stayed at the Lodge. This was the only part that I found disappointing. It's outdated for sure, and once you enter the room I wouldn't say it matches a "lodge" aesthetic at all. It's more outdated Victorian style. The bed and pillows were horrible. I woke up every morning with a neck and back ache. The showerhead was also terrible. Just a cheap Holiday Inn style shower. While the room was big and I guess "fancy" looking, I would rather have it be smaller, more modern and have a comfy bed and awesome shower. There is an in room Keurig, so if that's your thing, you'll be happy.
The food for the most part is stellar. We had an amazing experience at Lautrec. Again, very expensive, but between the delicious food and special experience you get there, it was worth it to me. We also ate at Aqueous, which I also enjoyed. I was jealous of the boutique hotel there. It looked gorgeous. But again, more expensive than our room.
The spa was wonderful and cozy, just what I want in a spa. I got a facial and thoroughly enjoyed it. We also just stayed and hung out by the fire on the comfy chaise lounges for a while. They had tea, snacks and reading materials, so you could totally make a day of just hanging at the spa. Plus there's an indoor pool, sauna and hot tub.
They have two medium size outdoor pools. One I'd call the kids pool with a slide, but also has a swim up bar. Probably a win for parents with kids! There's also an adult only pool, which I appreciated. They had their own bar, but it wasn't swim up.
We ate at the restaurant by the pool, The Tavern, for lunch. It was just okay. Probably the most disappointing meal there. It wasn't bad, just nothing to rave about. The building alongside the pool has multiple shops inside, mostly clothing, but a it looked like one toy store too. Plus, there's an art studio and ice cream shop that serves local Pittsburgh ice cream, Millie's. There's also an indoor kids pool in the building. I will note, while we weren't there with our child, it seems like a great place to come for the whole family, again, it just won't be cheap at all!
We stayed two nights, and I thought it was perfect. The only thing is you can't fit everything in with just two days. I would have liked to have eaten at the steakhouse and Italian restaurant, but there wasn't time. I also saw there was putt putt and real golf. Plus, it's so close to Falling Water, that's a must stop if you've never been. I know I'm missing so much, but there's a lot to do and see.
Overall it was a very nice stay. I do think it is crazy expensive and I don't know if I could justify bringing the whole family because most of the "extras" will cost you, but it's good to know it's there if you hit the lottery or something! read more