I've stayed at the Lodge many times, but this was the first time not booking directly through the resort as I wanted to be on the 5th floor. The room was very nice and clean and being on the 5th floors the ceilings were vaulted which was a nice bonus. When we got to our room there were no patio chairs on the deck. I texted the manager who responded back within minutes and got the hotel to send up chairs within 10 minutes! I was also worried that this room would not have a roof overhang to provide shelter from the rain if needed. I was very pleasantly surprised that the overhang is quite large and provided very good rain coverage. The only real difference between this room and booking directly through the resort would be the in room decorations, furniture, toiletries, etc. This room was much more beige and natural compared to the standard decor. The moose antlers were a nice touch, but other than that it felt very "Ramor and Flanagan" upscale, not very much like a lodge/alpine chalet. I much more preferred the typical armour, head board, bed runner, etc in the resort decorated rooms.I was also disappointed that the provided robes were not the ultra plush and cozy ones found in the standard rooms and in the spa at the lodge. Tl;dr5th floor views were great. But the decor and vibe in the rooms booked through/decorated by the lodge is better.
