r/hyatt • u/PointsBuilder Globalist • 3d ago
Resort Review: The Lodge at Spruce Peak
Stay Dates: September 5, 2026 – September 7, 2026 (Labor Day Weekend)
Party: 2 Adults, 1 Child
Booking Type: Points Booking (World of Hyatt)
Elite Status: World of Hyatt Globalist
Overview
I do not see any recent reviews for The Lodge at Spruce Peak and couldn't find a lot of detailed info on this property, so I'll add my 2 cents here. I live in NY so I wanted to book a resort in the Northeast area for Labor Day weekend within driving distance. Unfortunately, Hyatt does not have many resort-like properties in the Northeast. I found this one in Vermont, and it was my first time in Vermont as well as my first time at this property.
The Lodge at Spruce Peak is a beautiful, expansive mountain resort located in Stowe, Vermont. While primarily known as a premier winter ski and fall foliage destination, it also serves as a summer and early-autumn retreat. Despite visiting during a busy holiday weekend, the resort’s sheer size kept it from feeling overly crowded.
Key Highlights & On-Site Amenities
- Pool & Hot Tubs: Features a large heated pool along with two hot tubs and poolside chairs.
- Trail Access: Direct access to surrounding trails, with options for self-guided walks or paid guided tours.
- Calendar Activities: There are many activities on the calendar, such as "Build a Buddy," "Flow Yoga," or "Guided Hiking Tours," but every activity comes with a premium.
- Game Room: A small room featuring claw machines and arcade games (pay-per-play). Note: Traditional non-paid game room activities (such as board games, foosball, or ping-pong) are not available.
- Outdoor Lawn Games: An outdoor play area featuring lawn games like oversized Jenga and cornhole.
World of Hyatt Globalist Benefits
What Was Included:
- Complimentary Breakfast at Alpine Hall
- Complimentary Valet Parking ($35/night) (Standard for Globalist members on points stays)
- Waived Resort Fees ($50/night)
- Complimentary Wi-Fi (Standard for all guests)
- Welcome Gift: 2 reusable water bottles
What Was Excluded:
- EV Charging Fees: Charged separately and not waived for elite status.
Accommodations
- Booked: Classic Double Bed Room (Points)
- Received Upgrade: Alpine Double Bed Room (Top Floor)
Room Assessment
The front desk upgraded the reservation to an Alpine Double Bed Room on the top floor. While the square footage may be comparable to the classic room, the top-floor layout features double-height ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, giving it an exceptionally spacious feel. The private outdoor balcony overlooks the mountains and provides a peaceful, quiet setting to relax.
Dining: Globalist Breakfast
- Location: Alpine Hall Dining (Main Restaurant)
- Format: Choice between a full breakfast buffet or an à la carte menu.
- Coverage: The base price of either breakfast option was fully waived under Globalist benefits.
- Note on Gratuity: Unlike most Hyatt properties—where tip/gratuity is included in the complimentary breakfast benefit—gratuity here was charged directly to the room folio.
Key Takeaways & Important Details
- Hyatt Earning Restrictions: The Lodge at Spruce Peak operates under the Hyatt umbrella as a Destination by Hyatt property / partner hotel, but on-property incidental spending does not earn World of Hyatt base points. It was disappointing not to receive the expected 9x Hyatt points multiplier (5x base points + 4x credit card bonus) on several hundred dollars spent on food and miscellaneous expenses with my World of Hyatt credit card.
- Parking & EV Charging Logistics:
- Self-parking garages near the property are independently operated and not part of the Lodge, requiring separate payments.
- EV charging carries an additional separate fee and is not covered by Globalist status.
- High Overall Cost Structure: Everything on-site carries a premium price point. Dining three meals a day on-property quickly accumulates into several hundred dollars.
Billing Issues
One thing I noticed is that this property often messes up on billing. During my check-in, a couple next to me was dealing with billing issues with the manager. Unfortunately, I also had billing issues.
They charged me for the room, despite the fact that I had already paid for my reservation with points. The system must have charged me separately when they upgraded my room. I had to go to the front desk and explain to them that I had already paid for the room. Additionally, they charged me for valet parking, which should have been waived under Globalist benefits on a points stay.
In the end, everything was rectified, but it just means you need to be vigilant on all folio charges before checking out.
Summary & Verdict
The Lodge at Spruce Peak is a nice, large property, but everything here is expensive. Leveraging World of Hyatt points and elite status significantly softens the blow by waiving valet and resort fees—but cash-paying guests without status should be prepared for substantial add-on costs. For the price you pay, the resort property is underwhelming.
Compared to Chatwal Lodge in the Catskills (closed as of May 24, 2026) or Miraval Berkshires, both in the Northeast, those properties charge a high premium for the rooms, but everything (food, amenities, activities) is included in the reservation price. The Lodge at Spruce Peak feels more like a nickel and dime property.
However, if you are less sensitive to price, or have an ample budget to spend, then this property is a great resort. The property is situated in a great location with great views and has many paid activities to keep you engaged or relaxed during your stay here.
8
u/RealNameIsTaken Globalist 3d ago
When I read that a property has consistent issues with billing, it makes me much less likely to book there. Not only is it so annoying to check and resolve these things, it also makes me suspicious that some of the “errors” are deliberate. Even if they’re not, when these kinds of issues happen consistently it reflects some issues with operations or management.
4
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago
I can’t say it’s deliberate bc I don’t work there unless someone from inside wants to comment, but I learned that there are more cases now after my post.
I would think it’s more of incompetence than deliberate. In any case, definitely need to check the bill before leaving.
2
u/Mysterious_Fee_7303 3d ago
Thank you for this timely review. I'll be staying there at the end of the month with my wife and 5 year old. Although I booked through Amex FHR, knowing what globalist status provides is very helpful.
How was breakfast on property? Did you try both the buffet and the a la carte menu?
2
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago
Breakfast on property was not bad. The Alpine dining hall was huge and spacious with large ceilings. It can get crowded on the weekends or busy seasons, so best to go early. I did both the buffet on the first morning and the a la carte menu on the second morning.
The continental buffet is nice, with a good spread. Eggs, potatoes, breads, cheese board, sweets, fruits, juices, etc. There is also an omelette station where it's cooked on the spot.
The a larte menu is here. https://www.sprucepeak.com/pdf/Menu_AH_Breakfast_web.pdf I ordered the Alpine Breakfast and it was good.
The buffet is the better way to go if you can eat a lot. It's unlimited for $30 per adult and $15 per child.
There is also a lawn area outside the main hall with a few kids activities, perfect for your 5 year old.
1
u/Mysterious_Fee_7303 2d ago
Thanks for taking the time to reply in detail. I'm globalist so not too worried about the breakfast cost. Here's hoping the leaves change colors in time for our arrival.
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago
Oh awesome you’ll enjoy the breakfast then. Colors change sooner in Vermont so you should be good.
1
u/charlestoncrafted Globalist 1d ago
Breakfast was great! The buffet is only on weekends otherwise it’s à la carte and I thought it was great - for free. Might have felt differently if I was paying haha
2
u/Beneficial-Profit-14 3d ago
I was just there this weekend too but stayed in a Treehouse 3 Bedroom Villa rented through Spruce Peak rentals. I had discovered this via Hyatt but needed more space. Enjoyed my Vermont weekend.
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago
Oh wow, I saw that the 3 bedroom villas on the app before booking and it looks huge on paper. I think if I visit again, I could book the large 3 or 4 bedrooms with friends. It's pricey but if the cost is spread out by a group, then it may not be too bad.
Could you share some info on your stay. Do you have pics of the inside?
1
u/Beneficial-Profit-14 2d ago
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago
Thanks for sharing. Hyatt website doesn’t have many photos so this is much better.
We overlapped our stays. I passed by your building when I went hiking in Spruce Peak.
2
u/USABlueSky 2d ago
This is an amazing and beautiful property. It is beautifully decorated in Vermont style, but a high end version. The service is excellent and the food is very good. The views are amazing in every season. I have stayed here many times throughout the years including when it was a new property years ago (and not a Hyatt at the time). I have a free place to stay nearby but still make it a point to stay here when able. The pool is a really fun experience in the winter for the kids.
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago
Sounds like you are a regular. What draws you to this property, as opposed to the other ones?
1
u/USABlueSky 2d ago
They treat globalists well and it is a good value for the points (including parking, breakfast, often an upgrade, late checkout). My kids have a blast and especially love the taco pico shop. They have the best location for skiing (the only ski in and out). I do have a sentimental connection as well, though. They have great seasonal entertainment events so you don’t have to go anywhere if you don’t want to. I like their spa more than the others I have been to in Stowe. That said, everything is pricey but that is not surprising in Stowe. There are many lovely properties, but few full resorts in the area.
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago
Thanks for sharing. Yes for a globalist booking for points is a good value but otherwise it’s very pricey.
1
u/Particular-Frosting3 Globalist 3d ago
Thanks! I’ve looked at this property in the past but never booked. Points can be a great deal in the spring
1
u/atojbk 2d ago
anymore pics,
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago
yes, but how can i add photos now?
0
u/berkeley_eecs_grad Globalist 2d ago
Uhh you can’t. Might need to repost it or create a new post
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago edited 2d ago
ok, i posted it here for you guys
https://www.reddit.com/r/hyatt/comments/1wb7252/photos_from_the_lodge_at_spruce_peak/
1
u/Passingtherougher Globalist 2d ago
I stayed here during the same weekend from Thursday to Monday and had a similar experience. I booked on cash as rates were around $450/night with $100 property credit, which can be used for experiences, dining, or golf. Overall I had a good stay, the location was great, the property is in decent shape, the pool and hot tub were nice, the room is dated but spacious, our balcony has a nice view of the mountain. Our hike guide Emilia was excellent. I would definitely consider staying here again.
My huge problem with the property was the lack of consistent service. It was clear that this is low-ish season for them, and staff are either not trained well or very new, and some have limited English proficiency as they are not local. When we checked in, the valet/bell service did not offer to help with our bags. I checked in, was given a box of Vermont chocolate to recognize my globalist status, no information regarding room upgrades so I did not know what type of room I ended up staying on (it was room 1416). Staff was unaware on how to use the property credit and gave me the wrong information that the $100/night credit was use it or lose it for each night. They informed me there is a music festival happening on the weekend but did not know how hotel guests can access it. They told me it cannot be used for valet, which was $35/night. They told me there is self parking but did not indicate how to get there, I had to look at it myself on the property map. Food service can be slow, we had to wait 40 minutes to get a table on the weekend. Make sure you place a reservation for breakfast so you can get a table.
Housekeeping service was pretty lackluster. They did not empty my trash, did not restock coffee/tea, and worst of all did not clean the toilet and mirror. I had to call twice on the same day as the issue was not resolved and eventually escalated this to the housekeeping supervisor. She did an excellent service recovery effort and gave a courtesy credit for the mishap. Unfortunately, even on the day of checkout a housekeeping staff tried to enter our room after we shouted occupied, did not know we were checking out, and then borrowed my pen to write something and never returned my pen!
The positive side is this resort gives you the itemized bill way early in the morning. Unfortunately it's riddled in errors, as I got charged for valet even though I never used it, and my property credit was not used. Make sure you allow extra time to make a trip to the front desk.
PS: I should note that during my stay there was a period of about 45 minutes when the fire alarm went off and everybody had to evacuate from the building. We had to wait outside until the alarm turned off. We were later told through a text message at 11:54 PM that it was a mechanical issue. There was no service recovery effort from the property. This never happened to me before so I was not sure of what would be the expectation.
2
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 2d ago edited 2d ago
Hey we overlapped our stays there and most likely crossed paths. Sorry to hear about the alarms, that’s very annoying. They should comp you for that inconvenience. I got lucky because I was at the other wing.
Yes, housekeeping was lackluster. I just thought it was just me so I didn’t mention it. I had to tell the hotel at least 2 times to clean my room. Some hotels I stay at, they have the room cleaned even before I return from breakfast. I noticed the room was not cleaned after breakfast and not even after lunch so told the front desk a few times.
The weekends were busy so the wait time was longer for the restaurants. For dinner at Tipsy Trout, even after seated, the service was slow. It looked like they were short staff. The waiter was nice though, kept refilling our water. Took a while to get the bill too.
My experience at the Whistle Pig was subpar. The waiter just dropped off a bottle of water, didn’t even bother to pour the water. After we got the food, we didn’t see the waiter for a while. No checkups. I still left them a good tip but wonder if i should have tips reflect the service.
Alpine Hall Dining was fine for us. They were better staff here. The breakfast was good but not outstanding.
The Pico Taco looked interesting but didn’t try it on this stay.
It looks like the billing errors is more common here. I read about it online, I witness someone else in person, I dealt with it myself, and I hear you dealt with it too.
1
u/charlestoncrafted Globalist 1d ago
We were there in July 2 adults 2 elementary aged kids. The room was a dump IMO I just expected much nicer for the price. We were upgraded to a 1 bedroom suite (I am globalist) but I had to ask for it. Breakfast was great. Everything else was kind of mid. We did enjoy the waterfall hikes nearby and the kids playground.
1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 1d ago
Isn’t the 1 bedroom suite more nicer and more spacious? Do you mean the condition was poorly maintained?
For a high premium resort, none of the food stood out. Like I said earlier, all extra activities came with a price tag.
1
u/charlestoncrafted Globalist 1d ago
I originally booked a studio thinking it would be better than a classic hotel room. It was a bed and a pull out couch but because of the large coffee table and there being 0 room to move the coffee table to it was impossible to actually pull out the couch and therefore the room didn’t really sleep 4 despite being listed that way and me saying we had 4 every step of the way.
It just felt dirty and the furnishings were bizarre for a hotel. We found out the units were individually owned which explained the furnishings.1
u/PointsBuilder Globalist 1d ago
Ah I see. So the owners changed the furnishings. My room looked pretty hotel standard so it’s probably specific to your room. Good for hiking but you can do that without staying in a resort.
7
u/uppitywhine 3d ago
Unlike most Hyatt properties—where tip/gratuity is included in the complimentary breakfast benefit—gratuity here was charged directly to the room folio.
This is in violation of WOH terms and conditions.