Whenever I read reviews for places I have already been, I often wonder why the writers went there in the first place. They often seem to be completely shocked by where they ended up.
Nobody should go to the Trapp Family Lodge if you are looking for ultra-modern luxury or "fast times". We have been staying at TFL for years (7), always in a Guest VHouse, and we simply adore it.
You probably should be clear on the fact that Stowe, Vermont is a small, lovely, and cosmopolitan ski town that attracts year round visitors. Please remember you're in Vermont, not NYC! There are small quaint shops, beautiful art gallerys and right down the road is Cabot Cheese, Ben & Jerrys, and Cold Hollow Cider Mill - simple fun! There are a plehtora of restaurants to choose from from small mom & pop sandwich shops to fine dining. Don't come to Stowe or TFL looking for wild night life. There are plenty of pubs & watering holes, but this isn't Park City.
The drive up to TFL is beautiful, when you arrive it's a step back. The views are spectacular from almost every spot on the property. The guest houses are glorified cabins. Fully heated and with every amenity (no a/c). Rustic and simple furnishings provide comfort after busy days with ample room to move about. The kitchens are small yet fully stocked. I've turned out some beautiful meals from that kitchen and after all these years the only thing I bring are my own spices and a sharp knife. The beds (1Q & 2Tw) are quite comfortable and the bathrooms are small but again, meet every need. The wood burning fireplace is delightful with wood and firestarters provided, and there is a "mud/coat room" that is perfect for hanging coats, storing skis & shoes. The tv is small, but that's a minor complaint. There is a very fast wireless connection. The balcony/porch surely has some of the prettiest views in Vermont.
The pool/fitness building is a short walk away and is gorgeous and never crowded. No, it is not part of the main building (as an earlier writer complained) but the walk is ridiculously short. Book a massage, climb the rockwall or play a game of tennis if weather permits. The main restaurant and the alternate tea room provide consistent and large meals, the atmosphere in both is charming. A daily walk to the bakery on site every morning for fresh baked pastries and breads is sure to add a couple of lbs despite the many activities to keep you moving...or not! Take a wagon ride, look at the beautiful gardens and wildlife in the pastures; hike on property or any of the surrounding areas; drive to the Notch, take the tram at Stowe to the top of the mountain; bike or walk the gorgeous trail in town; drive the toll road and hike to the highest point in Vermont; catch a movie in town, in the lodge or curl up in your own cabin and read a good book., spend an afternoon checking out all the nooks & crannies in the main lodge and looking at the amazing pictures and Trapp Family memorabilia. Sit outside and take in the fabulous beauty that is TFL/Stowe. Our family spent a fantastic day at Laughing Moon Chocolate in town making our own candies, we have also made pottery, gone driving on a search for covered bridges, hiked from the trout lodge and traveled on part of the long trail; so many amazing adventures are to be had in and around TFL/Stowe.
The staff is friendly, efficient and helpful. I can't think of anything we have ever lacked or wanted for. Once, I made the trip with kids but w/o my dh and the bellboy ran right down to my cabin and carried every bag up the stairs for me. No this is not the luxury you'll find at the Stein Ericksen Lodge, but is that really why you're going to Stowe? We'll be going back to TLF in 2 weeks, I'm counting the days!