Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Review at Universal Orlando, Florida

Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida is an exciting vacation destination featuring two theme parks, Universal Citywalk nightlife and three beautifully themed Loews hotels. The Royal Pacific can take you away to the islands and the Hard Rock Hotel is like being a guest at a rock star's mansion. But the jewel of the three resorts is the Italian splendor of the Portofino Bay Hotel. Immerse yourself in the full Universal experience by booking a stay at Portofino Bay!

The architecture. Portofino Bay Hotel encircles a lake, appearing to be a series of different buildings set close together, but in fact is all one large structure. The lake is sprinkled with water craft, completing the feel of a tiny Italian seaside village. Stepping into the spacious lobby is also a jaw dropping experience. The luxury and airiness of the lobby sets the stage for a warm, comfortable and elegant vacation experience.

The rooms. Portofino Bay features standard rooms, deluxe rooms, themed suites and Club Level rooms. Visitors can book a standard room with either a Universal Studios Annual Pass discount or a AAA discount for a reasonably priced vacation stay or spend many times that amount for a large and elaborate suite. Rooms can overlook the bay or the gardens and either view adds to the Italian experience.

The pools. Portofino Bay features three different pools that hotel guests can enjoy: the Villa pool for adults to have a relaxing break from the action, the Beach Pool for the family to enjoy together, and the Hillside pool for privacy and quiet. Guests of all three Loews Universal hotels are able to make use of each hotel's pools, so the experience can go beyond Portofino Bay and cross over to the Royal Pacific or Hard Rock Hotel.

The spa. Portofino Bay has a Mandara Spa where guests can spend quality time on their own supreme relaxation. Massages, beauty treatments, skin care, nail care and a full fitness center are available for reservations. Make the kids their own reservations at Campo Portofino, the kid's club, and spend some time and attention on yourself!

The dining. From the extended family atmosphere of Mama Della's Ristorante's hearty food and robust feeling to the upscale elegance of Bice Ristorante, dining at Portofino Bay is a pleasure. The Trattorio del Porto offers up a more casual cuisine including a breakfast buffet and occasional Italian dinner buffet. An Italian deli, gelateria, and pizzeria are also available onsite.

The parks. Staying at a Universal Resort will gain you more than a fully themed and elegant stay. Guests can take advantage of their onsite accommodations with transportation to both parks and Citywalk. All the fun and excitment of everything Universal has to offer is right at your doorstep. But the best part? Your Portofino Bay room key will get you access to a different line at each park's ride. It is referred to as the "Front of the Line" pass and while it won't literally get you straight to the front, it will gain you access to a shorter line that will cut your wait to a fraction. On a hot and sticky day, this room key access can be a lifesaver.

Orlando is a fantastic family vacation destination and Universal Studios is an incredibly entertaining and full service theme park resort. Staying on property can immerse you in the park experience and Portofino Bay is truly a jewel in the Universal Crown for it's simple elegance, full theming and charming ambiance.