Article by Storybook Travelers Emily Engram and Holly Averette

Inspired by Walt Disney’s love of Europe and the Mediterranean regions, this Deluxe villa resort portrays modern, European influences with a uniquely Disney touch. The resort has an elegant feel while maintaining an inviting atmosphere. It boasts an extensive art collection, lush gardens, wrought iron terraces, and a peaceful waterfront; all of which invite guests to relax and unwind. Riviera opened on December 16, 2019, and was an immediate hit among guests!

Arrival and check-in experience:

You are seemingly transported to Europe upon your arrival at Riviera! From the palm-lined drive to the elegant lobby, you will feel as though you have arrived at a real Mediterranean resort!  If you are arriving by motorcoach via an airport shuttle you will be dropped off right in front of the lobby entrance. If arriving by taxi, rideshare, or private transfer, you will stop by the security gate and confirm you are checking in before proceeding to the lobby entrance. If arriving by personal vehicle you will also need to stop by the security gate. TIP: have your ID and resort confirmation number handy to show the guard. Self-parking is now free for all resort guests. Guests requiring accessible parking receive free valet parking as well. Bell services will be available to assist guests with luggage upon arrival and they can hold your items until your room is ready. Alternatively, you may choose to complete online check-in on the app prior to your arrival. Doing this allows you to bypass the front desk and you will receive a text or email notification with your room number when it is ready.

Rooms:

Riviera is a deluxe villa resort with a variety of room options ranging from a Tower Studio for 2 guests all the way up to a 3 Bedroom Grand Villa that sleeps up to 12 adults!

  • Tower Studio (2 guests)
  • Deluxe Studio (5 guests)
  • 1 Bedroom Villa (5 guests)
  • 2 Bedroom Villa (9 guests)
  • 3 Bedroom Grand Villa (12 guests)

I had the pleasure of staying in a 1 Bedroom Preferred Villa in October 2022. Upon entering your villa, you walk into a grand kitchen and living room that converts into a queen bed and pull down 5th sleeper bed. Even with these beds all pulled down, there is plenty of room to walk around and maneuver the room. The separate king master bedroom has a large closet with plenty of storage throughout. The bathroom is nothing short of grand. Marble tile going from the floor to the room draws your eye at every turn. The bathroom features a large soaker, jetted tub, a double shower head walk in shower, one toilet, and two vanities for plenty of room for large families to get ready in the mornings. Every balcony has exceptional views of EPCOT, the beautiful pool area, or Caribbean Beach skyliner views.

Dining:

You’ll discover an array of delectable dining options at Riviera with menus that draw inspiration from European cuisine.

  • Topolino’s Terrace- Flavors of the Riviera: Mickey and friends invite you to start your day with a scrumptious character breakfast at Breakfast a la Art. In the evenings, the restaurant transforms into a romantic signature restaurant serving up French and Italian inspired cuisine. *Character’s are only present at breakfast.*

FUN FACT: Topolino’s gets it’s name from the Italian name for Mickey Mouse.

  • Bar Riva: This open air pool bar serves a variety of elevated bar foods, signature entrees, handcrafted cockatils, and has an extensive drink menu.
  • Le Petit Cafe: Stop by in the morning for a signature coffee drink and pastry or in the evening for hors d’oeuvres and a glass of wine.
  • Primo Piatto: The resort’s quick service location serves meals throughout the day. You’ll find traditional favorites as well as items with a European flair.

Transportation:

Riviera offers skyliner access to Hollywood Studios as well as EPCOT. Having the skyliner option also allows you quick access to Yacht and Beach Club as well as Boardwalk Resort at the EPCOT skyliner stop which opens up the door to more dining options. If the skyliner ever goes down due to weather or maintenance, busses will be available as an alternative option. There is always bus transportation to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.

Recreation:

The Riviera Pool features a winding water slide and Fantasia inspired kids splash and play area. A variety of poolside games and activities take place each day by the feature pool. For a quiet escape, the Beau Soleil Pool is a relaxing oasis with a hot tub. Other activities a jogging trail, fitness center, nightly campfire complete with marshmallows to roast, and movies under the stars (popcorn included!). The resort’s green space incorporates some lawn games such as bocce ball and a giant game of chess, or you could grab a seat in one of the swings and relax for a while

PRO TIP: There is a limited number of large, covered 2-person loungers by the pools. Arrive early for the best chance to grab one!

Pros and Cons:

  • Pros:
    • Beautiful design
    • Impeccable views
    • Delicious food options including character dining
    • Skyilner access
  • Cons:
    • One of the pricier resorts
    • Only one building so rooms are filled quickly
    • Small lobby

Agent Impressions:

From the beautiful design, to the fun ambiance of the gardens, this resort is a must see. In our opinion, if you have a little more budget to spend on a higher-end resort as well as being able to plan in advance for the best availability, then this should be the resort on the top of your list! You just can’t beat this experience as well as the convenient location of the Skyliner along with the amazing Topolino’s character dining experience! We hope you give this resort a try and message one of our amazing travel agents to get your trip booked!

Article by Storybook Travelers Emily Engram and Holly Averette