The Historic Powhatan Resort Reviews

Staff tried to force me to attend a presentation. Refused check in. I am a senior and felt abused . Asked to check in without a presentation over 10 times befor receiving my unit and key.Never treated like this.

I enjoyed my stay here during the Fall months (October 2010). Duayne was great with coordinating our vacation. I have to rate Staff/Service a 3 because I did not have to call upon them. I highly recommend this location to families. Conveniently located near shops and sites.

My wife and I really liked this place, our married daughter liked it a lot, our son-in-law hasn't spent a lot of time in condos and wasn't as impressed, especially his bathroom, which really wasn't bad. (We have been in many time share resorts.) This unit has not been updated yet, and it was still very nice. A 2-bdrm, very roomy. Most furniture was comfortable, beds were comfy, unless you don't like firm beds, and the kitchen was large enough to do cooking. Could use a few bigger glasses and more plates. My BIG complaint was there was no salt and pepper provided. Basics should always be in the kitchen. The screen door immediately fell off its track. The kitchen sink faucet assembly moved. Picky, picky, picky. These are minor problems. Diamond is refurbishing the resort, and the updated unit we visited was gorgeous. We sat through a too long presentation to get a very good deal on Colonial Williamsburg tickets, but it was low pressure. We would stay here again if we did another east coast trip. It is close to everything you would want to see.

Had a wonderful stay here. I could find no evidence of all the negative comments I've sometimes seen written about Powhatan. I believe Diamond Resorts and their management team appear to have "turned-a-corner" on whatever problems they may have had. Our unit had new furniture and carpets, the kitchen had granite counter tops and every thing was immaculate. The beds had new mattresses that were super comfy with upgraded linens. The grounds were beautiful and well maintained, as were the indoor and outdoor pools. Only complaint was the low-light of the units. I suppose it has something to do with energy efficiency, but the only place in the unit that had adequate light for reading was the dining room table. I would definitely recommend this resort to anyone visiting Williamsburg and the surrounding areas.

“Basically a Renovated Condo”

Extended our week's stay at Colonial Williamsburg by (2) days by renting this 2nd floor unit (aka no jacuzzi, nor steam shower), and was mildly disappointed by the downgrade from staying at their sister resort at Greensprings. The two resorts have very little in common except for sharing the Diamond International (or Sunterra, whichever is the flavor of the week) ownership name. Thankfully we stayed at Greensprings first for 7-days, so the 2-days here were basically quick and forgetable.

I'm not certain whether this should be call this a "resort", or rather an extended stay suite with cooking facilities (similar to a Marriott's Residence Inn). The attic cutout in the ceiling, the wood-burning fireplace in the living room, the circuit breaker in the master bedroom, and the algae on the deck made it painfully obvious that these units were intended to be condominiums that just didn't sell, or apartments that just didn't rent.

Not really THAT bad, but certainly not comparable with other resorts in the area, or their "sister" resorts in the Diamond network.

Spent the last week of June 2009 here with our two teenage boys. Having read several of the more negative comments here, I was wondering what we had gotten into, but we were very pleased with our stay. The location is great (once we found the place, because Ironbound Road appears to be be 2 separate roads and Mapquest and our GPS steered us wrong), never more than 15 minutes away from everything we wanted to do. Restaurants, fast food (teenagers!) and groceries were close by. Our two room unit was beautifully decorated and spacious. From reading their website, it appears Diamond Resorts are new owners and are doing a complete update on the property. The rec building was closed for the week due to renovations, but that wasn't a great hardship as we were there primarily for Colonial Williamsburg and the amusement parks. (note: we purchased a "Bounce Pass" for a nice discount from the Busch Gardens website ahead of time, with unlimited admission to Busch Gardens, the water park, and Colonial Williamsburg for 7 days, including free parking, so we got to go each place multiple times for no extra charges). I would definitely stay here again next time we visit the area.

My parents and I stayed here the first week of May. I called ahead to make sure there was late check-in since the traffic was rather backed up due to a wreck and the fact that it was Friday evening. The operator was very nice and said it would not be a problem.

The resort is beautiful. We weren't sure what to expect as this was our first time. Wow, what a pleasant surprise! Our 2BR/2BA upstairs unit was so nice. It must have been recently redone...fresh paint and carpet throughout. The kitchen was small but very well-equipped. We ate breakfast in the unit every morning to save time and money and had everything we needed. The bedrooms and bathrooms were very spacious and clean. There is a washer/dryer so we used it to do our towels every other day...just bring your own supplies because they only give you enough for one load.

We ate at the Grille a few times and all the food we had was excellent. The waitresses and hostesses were very friendly and remembered us each time. We did not use the pool but did happen to walk through the area. It was well-maintained and there was an attendant on duty to hand out towels.

We were entertained by the constant parade of geese and goslings all over the property.

The concierge desk was very helpful and gave us several area maps and menus to use during our stay, which came in handy. There is so much to do in the area that you can't possibly be bored. Colonial Williamsburg was close by and very nice.

We also took a bus tour which consisted of a tour of the naval base in Norfolk and the USS Wisconsin, General MacArthur's Memorial, a trip out into Chesapeake Bay on a schooner, and also stopped for lunch. There were other guided tours to be taken but we figured the one we took pretty much covered it all.

I think we would all stay here again, and would probably even bring more people with us the next time.

The only reason I didn't give a 5-star rating is because there is no basic housekeeping unless you pay extra for it. Also, at one point when we went to eat at the Grille, we had to enter through the lower entrance and climb a flight of steps to get to the restaurant. The regular outside entrance was blocked because they had decided to resurface the ramp leading straight into the restaurant. My mother has difficulty with steps due to a knee problem so it was a bit rough for her to walk that flight.

Nice resort 10 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg and 10 minutes from Busch Gardens & Water Country. Fast check in (at 12:30 am the day after week began) and requested room was honored. Everyone was Very nice, always waving as we walked or drove by staff. The unit was comfortable, although the entire resort could use a coat of paint and new asphalt on the roads. We had several maintenance issues that never were fixed (bad tube on one tv and broken hot tub). The hot tub never was usable despite the "spa staff" trying to get it working and the old blurry tv in the master was never changed out. There are two tv's in the unit, one small tube set in the master and one small tube set in the living room (nothing in the guest br). The unit was Very clean and comfy and had the usual pots, pans, blender, etc.

We would go back again,but if I was a couple looking to use the hot tub, I would have been angry.

There was a smallish indoor pool that was well maintained with chlorine and chemicals and a kids playground that had sharp broken plastic from a broken steering wheel and chipped, damaged wood floor that should have been replaced long ago. Also, to charge guests for minigolf in a carpeted plywood course is squeezing guests for extra money in my opinion.

However, if you want a large clean room to go to Williamsburg, this place is great.

This was my second stay in my unit. Under the new management I was switched to an old unit that was in horid condition and i was shocked at the change. it had all sorts of maintenance issues and i feel there are some illegal dealings going on there and am very upset that this bait and switch went on. I feel duped by the new management and very upsept by my purchase.

Stayed there August of this year.Had a fantastic time in Va.,so much to do.I stayed in a remodeled 2 B.R.unit.Very well done.Tried to sell me 3 thousand Diamond Points(Very pushy)for $10,000.Bought a 4 B.R. wk.52 for $3000 from a resale place(Worth 15,000 pts.anually).Will take my family there yearly.I grew up in Wash.,D.C. area,forgot how beautiful Williamsburg is.I own at 3 other properties(Kings Creek,Poipu Point,and The Resort on Cocoa Beach).This property is just as nice as those.Nothing fancy,very clean,plenty of room for family of 6.After complete re-model ,property should be rated GOLD CROWN.I highly recomend for family vacation.

We have been staying at Powhatan every summer for the past six years. This summer will be our seventh visit. This is a great family resort.

The resort is in a great location close to all area attractions. The outdoor pool area is large with separate baby, toddler, family, and adult pools. We now own a C/D unit and find it to be very spacious. The resort has been improving each year, and the units have been updated. We were pleasantly surprised last summer to find that all units now have wireless internet access. Waiting to use the computer to check e-mail in the main building used to be a real pain, we were glad to see that they finally came in to the 21st century. The grounds are always kept nicely, the unit is always spotless when we arrive, and when we found that the coffee maker wasn’t working properly; a new one was delivered to our door within minutes of placing a call to maintenance.

If I had to pick one disappointing feature it would be the indoor activity center. The fitness center is lacking and the indoor pool facility needed attention the last time we were there. Fortunately the weather was beautiful and we didn’t need to use the indoor pool or hot tub.

Excellent place to stay at, I have to admit I was a bit dissapointed originally that the only exchange I had was at powhatan, but after arriving I was surprised beyond expectation, the unit was inmaculate and the staff was wonderful, I got a 2 bedroom 2 bath groundfloor with a jacuzzi (which my kids could not get enough of), we enjoyed the place so much barelly went out locally, a true relaxation vacation. I falled short of giving it a 5 star because the TVs sets were a bit outdated and small in comparison to the unit (sorry i am spoiled) but a flat screen and third tv in the kids bedroom would have earned the place above 4 stars

Stayed in 2 bedroom 2 bath unit lower level that had separate enclosed hottub room beside the masterbedroom and outside deck. That hot-tub was great each evening! Had stacked washer/dryer in kitchen - plenty of space through out, TV in livingroom and TV in master bdrm. Great place to stay for my 3 daytrips to Williamsburg a few miles away, plus a daytrip to Jamestown Settlement & another to Yorktown. Weather was great May 16, 2008 week. Grounds are wonderful for evening stroll w/pond & gazebo, pools, etc. The original plantation home is lovely to view upon entering the property - it takes you back in time if you love American history. Plantation mansion first floor is open certain hours for self- guided tour...grounds open around 24/7. The Powatan Resort is close to everything Williamsburg yet quiet for returning after a long day of touring for relaxation. Eat out nearby or cook in the nice condo kitchen. The A/C wasn't cold 1st night so I called front desk and maintenance put freon in A/C unit same morning. New mattress sets had been installed in my condo & others nearby just before I arrived.

Units are clean and well maintained. Scenery is beautiful 5 swimming pools, and many activities for the family. All attractions a very short ride away. A million places to eat -all reasonably priced for family fun. Can't beat the value!

We just returned from a week in unit 255D. "D" would be an appropriate grade for the unit and the resort. Our condolences to the owner(s).

Our 2 br upstairs unit had only a shower for the master bath. The other bath had a small tub. Only downstairs units have hot tubs...

As with other posts, we hoped for the best but also experienced the well worn appliances, broken light switches and burned- out bulbs, dirty windows displaying smashed insects to look out of, paint spills on curtains and floors, missing and rough trim boards, cobwebs hanging from nearly every corner and light fixture. We killed several of the "web designers" (spiders) to slow their progress.Things like this distract from one's ability to relax.

We complained to the front desk, in person, requesting another unit. (When we were checking-in the first night, another guest in front of us was having the same unpleasant experience) We were told that our unit had been recently refurbed and no other refurbs or downstairs units were available. (The refurbs were only for countertops, furniture, carpet, and artwork.) So the lady took our list of complaints and promised to send someone over from maintenance.

They practically followed us back to the unit with a clock radio (we had none) and the missing kitchen towels. From there it got rather interesting... The next two days we're visited by repairmen to address some of the mechanical issues. They replaced the broken television and icemaker. The other items would have to be repaired when the unit is unoccupied. The resort management planned to move us to another upstairs unit and left several phone messages. The problem? Our phone would not receive calls or flash when messages were waiting. (another work order for maint.)

Meanwhile, someone changed the status of our unit to "unoccupied". We find this out when another guest tried to move in with us. He got the top of the stairs, realizing then there was a mixup.

Once again I call the front desk to remind them we're still occupying the unit. The person told me of the computer error and that it will be corrected. The following morning we're "walked-in" on by an inspector whose job is to check for damage after someone checks out. He shows me his printout. Sure enough, the error was not corrected as promised.

As for the dirt and spiders, we were informed that midweek cleaning and linen replacement was an extra $65. Since this was the third day of our stay they couldn't clean our unit. Plan on washing your towels. You only get one per person per week. If you plan on cooking bring extra flatware. You only get 4 spoons, for example. You get one 10" skillet. Very understocked compared to other resorts...

The next day after that we returned from a day at Busch Gardens to find our unit inaccessible. Our keys were disabled by yet another misinformed employee. Another trip to the front desk for new key cards...

The patio furniture was dirty and the deck hadn't been swept for quite a while. Of course, with a hundred or so mosquitos poised on the screen door day and night, you might as well stay inside unless you brought mosquito repellant along.

The only positive experience was the very helpful conscierge desk and convenient proximity to the historic sites. The roads are well designed to get you where you want to go in a reasonable amount of time.

Rest assured, Our submitted comment card was longer than this post. Hopefully it'll help someone in the future...

Meanwhile I would recommend staying elsewhere, we will...

Note the quality of the Plantation since Club Sunterra has purchased it. Look at the comments early on and how they have changed in the last few years. We love this resort! Always clean and like going home. We always know what appliances will be there and the maintenance staff is first class. We have gone for 10 years and loved every year! This resort has prime time exchange possibilities to anywhere in the World! We've decided to keep it - the grown children will be usin the points!

My family rented 2 units in August 2006. My parents needed a 1 BR, first floor. Upon our arrival we found out they did not have 1 BR units. My parents were put into a 2 BR (1 BR - Queen Bed; the other 2 Twin Beds) and were not charged additional fees. It was an older unit in need of a little updating but everything was still very nice.

My unit (2 BR - 1Q; 2 Twin Beds/2 BA) was ABSOLUTELY gorgeous. It had been remodeled and everything was just perfect. Very clean, well coordinated.

Considering the hodge-podge and uncertainty that can come with hotel rentals, I'd come back to Powhatan any day! As a matter of fact, this was my 3rd visit!

We own a 2 bedroom lockoff w/ loft (A/B) week 51 at Powhatan Resort. This was the first year staying here (December 23rd, 2006 check-in).

It's a very spacious 2 bedroom unit that has the master bedroom on the first floor with a full kitchen, bathroom w/ double bowl sink, living area w/ pull out sofa, eight person hot tub, and deck (A side).

The second floor has a separate master suite, two bathrooms (one with a stand up shower), a partial kitchen with cook top, and a upstairs loft with two twin beds (B side).

As a combined unit (A/B), it is very spacious for 6 people but I wouldn't recommend the B side for anyone that wants to spend time cooking or baking. The unit has only limited working surfaces so we used the extra pots and pans on the B side and did all of our cooking/baking in the A side.

Location, location, location. This Resort is in the middle of the historic triangle. Jamestown Settlement and Colonial Williamsburg are only about 5 minutes drive from the Resort. Yorktown is about 15-20 minutes drive. It is also close to two shopping plazas with grocery stores, restaurants, Target, Blockbuster, a movie theater, etc...

The unit did have some maintenance issues that we addressed with the Resort. With the unit being about 20 years old, even with the recent refurbishments, we expected some maintenance issues to come up. Sunterra is working to regain their Gold Crown status with RCI so they are trying to address any housekeeping or maintenance issues right away.

The Resort did have several planned activities during our stay but we did not partake. The Resort grounds are beautiful and the Manor House is a nice touch. The activity center has a good deal of things to do (racquetball, indoor pool, hot tubs, sauna, outdoor volleyball court, tennis courts, outdoor pool, game room, fitness center). We did notice that the Resort could improve in this area. After using the facilities, we felt that the areas could be cleaner and more up-to-date. Other than that, our kids enjoyed playing in the pool and racquetball.

It's a nice Resort overall but not quite 5 star or Gold Crown yet!

We were very dissappointed with this resort. Our rental was supposed to be 1 king, 1 queen and 2 twins. Instead it was 2 doubles and 2 twins. I stopped by the desk, and was told that the entire Plantation was doubles...they do not have QUEEN OR KING BEDS!!

The place smelled terrible and I just turned in a list a things that were broken or not working properly...the dishwasher, coffee maker, ironing board, windows, refridgerator drawers, broken spa thermometer, ceiling fan broken (very wobbly and noisy-we were actually concerned it would work itself loose!) There were little annoyances like the tv remote that needed batteries on the first day, and the poorly designed frigde that held very little food, and not space in the kitchen cupboards for food (literally we had less than a 12 inch space that we made by moving dishes around...we had to stack our food on the small counter.)

The owners said that place was just redone in October-that was 10 months ago! And the carpet looked like it was 20 years ago. The bathrooms need a facelift, they look dirty.

Having decided to make the best of it, we enjoyed the grounds and our daytrips to the local area. The location of the Plantation is great, we are close to everything.

We just spent a week in a two-bedroom condo on the first floor. It was a clean, attractiive condo.

Check-in and check-out was vey smooth. The office staff were pleasant and helpful. The grounds are well-kept and attractive.

The maintenance team were very quick to respond to questions.

The location is convenient to shopping and local attractions. We would stay here again when visiting this area.

Visited May 27 - June 3, 2006, 2br. 2bth "D" unit

- First time at Powhatan (traded through II). - Very pleased with accomodations. Large, spacious unit. Very clean. Carpet and Furniture appeared to be new. Nicely decorated. Granite counters in kitchen. Cabinets appeared to be old but functional. Beds were very comfortable.

- Did not realize how large place was. Very nice grounds. Well maintained. Manor House adds nice touch to this resort. Open for tour.

- Pools were open. Pools for every age. (Pool for 18 and over...mellow/relaxing), (Pool for family with kids...fun), (Pool for family with younger kids....fun), and Little kiddie pool....suspiciously warner than others :) )

Resort is located very close to new well maintained shopping malls. Attractions and food very close by.

Last time in Williamsburg I stayed at Kings Creek. IMO, PP is in a better location (closer to shopping, food). I would definitely stay here again.

Stayed in 196C 5/5-5/12/06. Very pleased, even though our unit does need renovation, it was clean. Dryer had to run several cycles to dry 1/2 load. Doesn't have dataports on phone for computer.

Check-in went very well, and even though we were booked into 2nd floor, when I requested 1st floor (knee problems), a first floor unit was provided.

Although only 2 of us, we got 2-bedroom unit to have extra space & just in case one our kids wanted to come for a few days.

Fireplace in living room, duck peering through sliding glass door, goslings up the hill, hot tub off bedroom. What more could you ask?

The grounds are beautiful and well- maintained. Unfortunately, we could not go to "Murder in the Manor" because it required 6 participants and only had 4 by the cutoff time. A little pricey, but included dinner at "The Kitchen", a fine-dining restaurant on the grounds. What the heck - it's vacation folks!

The Grill, for casual dining, was very good. Being early May, we did not use the outside pool, but it looked inviting. They have a nice indoor pool also that we didn't use.

Williamsburg in early May is great! A lot of flowers in bloom, a few school groups, and very few tourists. Got right into the King's Arms Tavern for lunch with no wait. This has never happened to us before, because we always go to Wburg in the heat of the summer.

Took the Jamestown Ferry across the river to Scotland Neck and drove to Wakefield for lunch at the Virginia Diner, then on to Smithfield for a walking tour of the village's Victorian homes. Would have loved to go inside some of them! This is the home of the Gwaltneys, if anyone is familiar with Gwaltney and Smithfield hams and barbecue. A few shops, but not many open on a Tuesday because it was off season. They do have an antique mall which was pretty good.

Anyway, I recommend Powhatan, but ask for a renovated unit if you can get it.

This was my second stay, having been there with my daughter and her friend in September.

We just visited over Thanksgiving and saw the renovated units and they were as nice as any other place in Williamsburg.They had all new furniture,new carpets and appliances The grounds were neat and clean,the staff was friendly and helpful. IF YOU HAVE NOT STAYED HERE IN A WHILE...... YOU SHOULD SEE IT NOW......

Read other reviews and it sounds like there are several different units in stages of renovations.

My mother and father stayed at this resort unit # 126b the week of Thanksgiving 2005.(We stayed at Williamsburg Plantation) They reserved a one bedroom unit. They got a second floor unit that was very small with only a full size bed. Hardly big enough for 2 people. All the kitchen dishes were on a wire shelf above the washer and dryer all had to be washed before using. The refrigerator was miniture and there was no room to cook. The living area has 2 small chairs and a TV that was right on top of you. Unit needed lots of maintainance, a good cleaning for one, needs new carpet, new baths etc...

The grounds were lovely for this time of year. What a fooler when you drive into this resort. We will never stay here again.

We visited in April 2005 and loved it. The weather was beautiful, tulips were all in bloom at Colonial Williamsburg. Unit was very clean, everything looked updated except the jacuzzi room in the back. The rooms looked newly furnished and the kitchen was spotless! The grounds were beautiful! We (esp. the children) loved all of the geese. There was one that had laid eggs and sat and watched us everytime we left. The proximity to everything was o.k. About 15 min. to C.W. and 20 min. to Busch Gardens. The grocery stores were very close as were many restaurants. Would highly recommend it to anyone.

Went in an off season,but had a great time.1st rate accomodations very large 4 br.If you like the colonial thing that is a plus.The restaurant on site was 5 star. Would have recieved the fifth star if we were their in a season other than winter.

My wife and I stayed in this resort during October this year (2004) and we found it to be a resort that is close to all activities in the area of Norfolk/Newport News, Va to the Washington DC area.

These units are centrally located for history within the Williamburg, Va area and it is an excellent property.

Spwade3

My family stayed at this resort in July 2004. We rented a very spacious unit and the rooms were large and airy as described. The rooms very dirty, the carpets had huge dirt spots and appeared to be very dirty. Dead bugs was every where. This unit looked like no one had been in it for years. Very old run down appliances. Refridgerator was dirty and smelly. This place needs more than a face lift!

We exchanged our week at Cape Cod for this resort in the beginning of July. We're not used to the heat; we wilted like dead flowers. Went to the water park but that was so crowded we couldn't move and the lines for tubes were ridiculous. Busch Gardens was better but both days we got drowned in big thunderstorms in the afternoon. Walking around colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown was just too hot to enjoy. The resort did not impress us. The pools for kids were packed like sardines; the adult pool was much better. I enjoyed walking the complex at night but they could use more lighting. I hate Canadian geese and they're all over the place. The unit was OK but is showing its age; everything could use an updating. You can tell its about 20 years old. The hot tub and ice maker weren't working, but maintenance came quickly and fixed them. Nothing was terrible but it wasn't great either. They have plans to expand but when that happens then they really need another pool complex. One trip here was enough.

May 2004 my wife and I spent a very delightful week at Powhatan. The unit was clean, the grounds were well groomed and the weather was wonderful. For Williamsburg this is an off time during the week but very busy on weekends. We have come to Williamsburg on a regular basis over the past 8 years and each time we find something we did not see before. We will be back in Sept 2005.

Very nice resort! I used redweek.com to find it and rented the timeshare with my family for the week back in july. The process went very smooth and the owner was very accomodating.

Powhattan resort is very nice. The landscaping is beautiful and there are a large number of activities onsite. Plenty of amenities - 8 person hottub, vcr's, 3 bathrooms, jacuzzi tub, pull out sofas, high ceilings, washer/dryer, fully stocked kitchen . The design of the units was good. We shared the unit with another couple and the separate units was a nice feature . It allowed everyone a little space when needed.

Customer service was exceptional. when we checked in the unit had not been cleaned. Trach on the floor , dishes in the sink, dirty linens,etc. We called the front desk and a supervisor came over in less than 5 minutes. He apologized and explained that someone must have missed there assignment. He called someone on his staff, took our bags, exchanged the keys and had us in a freshly cleaned unit in about 10-15 minutes. Sometimes things comeup, the question is how does the resort deal with it, and we felt they handled it very well.

If there was a negative it was the exercise room . Not really enough equipment, so you had to wait for a treadmill and there weren't any bikes or steppers.

Lots to do in the area of course. A good place to stay .

I BOOKED THIS ONLINE FOR THE 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND AND THEY HAD A HARD TIME WITH MY RESERVATIONS WHEN I GOT THERE. THEY GOT IT STRAIGHT AND THE VACATION WAS ON IT'S WAY . GREAT , BEAUTIFUL PLANTATION. A MUST STAY AT AND BRING THE KIDS!LOTS OF STUFF TO DO. WILL GO BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We just returned from our trip from the Powhatan last wk..with all the negative reviews i read were unsettling but when we arrived at our place it was truely beautiful..i have really nothing negative to say except about a few carpet stains on the rug..otherwise our place was spotless..our kitchen was brand new..the grounds were breath-taking..parklike setting..the pools were clean and our family went in them everyday..everyone there was really nice to us. We had a terrific time staying there..my husband loved the jacuzzi and you couldnt ask for a better location..close to everything. We stayed for a week and i was very pleased at our rental..i would rent it again..it was really worth the trip down from NY. I guess it depends on which timeshare you get but i got scared reading all these negative reviews..so i just had to put my opinion on here..we had the downstairs unit and i couldnt have spent a better vacation..the Powhatan was beautiful!

We just returned from a week at Powhatan. While the resort is in a convenient location, the grounds and pool areas were nicely kept, and the staff was friendly and helpful, the unit left much to be desired. The carpet had multiple large stains, the wall paper was peeling in some places, there was an abundance of mildew in the master bath, and the overall look of the whole place was "worn out". Also, there was something that had been splashed up against the kitchen wall that I don't know how the cleaning staff could have missed. It was the first thing I saw when I entered the kitchen. Apparently, many of the units are under renovation, hopefully, this one will be one of them.

I JUST RETURNED FROM MY STAY AT SUNTERRA RESORTS MY EXPERIENCED WAS AWFUL WE WERE UNABLE TO SIT OUT ON THE DECK DUE TO BIRD FECES EVERYWHERE. WE CALLED ON TWO OCCASIONS FOR THEM TO CLEAN THE DECK AND FURNITURE WHICH HAD MOLD ALL OVER IT. WE ALSO CALLED ABOUT OUR HOT TUB THAT WE PAID EXTRA NOT WORKING NEVER WAS FIXED. WE CALLED ABOUT THE UPSTAIRS BATH TUB BUBBLES COMING IN TO OUR BATHROOM(SHOWER,TUB SINK, TOILET, UNDER TOILET) THEY SENT OUT A VERY NICE MAINTANCE MAN THAT HAD KNOW IDEA HOW OR WHAT TO DO TO FIX THE PROBLEM SO HE LEFT IT. WE ALSO CALLED RIGHT AFTER WE GOT IN TO THE ROOM TO COMPLAIN ABOUT HAIR IN THE TUB. A MAN CAME AND WIPED IT OUT THATS IT. WE ALSO TOLD THEM ABOUT PILLS AND GARBAGE FOUND ALL OVER THE ROOMS AND THE TOILET NOT WORKING AND THE TOWEL BAR THAT WAS BROKE AND PUT IN THE SHOWER ON THE FLOOR. THE DRYER DON,T WORK UNLESS YOU CALL 3 HOURS TO DRY ALOAD. WE HAD ANTS IN ALL OF OUR STUFF DURING OUR STAY. WE EVEN COMPLAINED ABOUT THE PEOPLE UPSTAIRS HAVING THE SAME KEY AND WALKING IN ON MY SISTER AND I AT 1 AM WHEN THEY ARRIVED TO THE CONDO WE ARE VERY UNSATISFIED WITH THIS RESORT. THEY CLAIM TO BE A 4 STAR RESORT BUT AT THE PRESENTATION THEY SAY THEY ARE A WEAK 3 BUT ARE PUTTING $$ INTO ALL THE UNITS. I DON'T RECOMMEND THIS RESORT NOR WILL WE EVER RETURN.

We just returned from this resort and I have to say that I would love to know what units were spotless. We stayed in a 2 bedroom unit and I have to say that I was very unhappy with it. It needs some TLC and fast. The wallpaper was either hanging or scotch taped back up, the toilet paper holder was hanging, there was a lot of stains on the rug, a dead bug on the wall, the washing machine knob was very loose, the dryer did not dry. We used the pool one time and that was enough. You couldn't see your feet in 3 1/2 feet deep of water and you felt dirty when you got out. The water park was cleaner than the pool. It was a good thing we were busy all day long. I hope they hurry up and redo these units before they loose a lot of business. If I was an owner there I would be embarressed to rent it out.

Just stayed here the last week of June, 2004. Check in was fast and smooth. Our unit was nicely furnished and clean. Hot tub was great and clean. Pools were clear, clean and not crowded. Grounds are beautiful. I had some reservations because of the negative comments posted on this site but our family did not have any negative experiences at Powhattan. Williamsburg is a great place to vacation. So much in the area we spent too little time at Powhattan.

I felt that the resort grounds were well maintained and that many activities were offered. The room we stayed in did need some minor repairs, but it was not anything that detracted from our stay. I wish I had known before the trip that one of the eating establishments on site was a more formal atmosphere and I would have packed for it. All staff were very friendly.

One feature that I found to be very comforting was that they have 24 hour gate coverage so that only the people that are supposed to be in teh complex are there.

We did find that it is more than the claimed 2 miles from Busch Gardens, but not far enough away to be an issue.

June 2004

We stayed here 2 years ago and again just over spring break, it is looking really nice now. We have tried many of the resorts in Williamsburg and this one seems to be the best for families - lot of activities, 4 outdoor pools ranging from kiddie pool to an adult only one, and the Powhatan Kitchen.

If you are a family, this is the place to stay. If you are couples, the Marriott is probably more your style. I would normally give this a 4 star but the value (I rented from an owner) makes this a 5 star for me.

As an owner I have seen this resort go a bit "down hill" over the past few years. In thier defence a new management team has taken over and they are in the process of "fixing up" the units. New paint, siding, bathroom fixtuers, furnature, TV's etc. I know this because all the owners have been hit with serious "surcharges". I would still recommend staying here, as there is lot's to do at the resort and in the area. The units are large and quite comfortable, just need some TLC. JT

We visited this resort for the first (and last) time in August 2003. The resort is in much need of a facelift. Units need to be painted, furniture replaced, carpets replaced. The activities for children are limited, and the resort is very dark. There is absolutely nothing going on after sundown...and there are barely any lights on outside, even if you wanted to go for a walk. As for Williamsburg, the town is great, restaurants were wonderful and the parks were such a treat. We would recommend Williamsburg for a family vacation, but choose another resort.

My family returned from Powhatan Plantation yesterday, 8/30/03. We had a fantastic time. The resort was spotless, the service was impeccable. The pools were fabulous. It was very very hot and the water was so comforting you forgot how hot it was! The resort is centrally located, but so accomodating you did not have to leave. We are quite impressed, it had something for everyone. No one could leave this resort unhappy. Being from New York we expect the best and got that and then some!!!! Cannot wait to return...

Very dissappointing resort. The units need updated badly, including carpet, kitchen, wall painting, linen, etc. The check-in service is poor too. It took us three trips to get into the unit and more than 12 hours to fix the door key.

The Landscaping was beautiful, the rooms has new furniture, carpet, and the activities for families were great!! For a family, this is the best resort in Williamsburg - lots of organized activities (the kids loved Family night at the pool on Wesnesdays!). We will be going back next year

Resort was very nice. Some minor things needed to be attended to - grass needed mowing, wallpaper in master bathroom was peeling at ceiling - little stuff. Otherwise we were very happy with the resort. Happy that there was a seperate pool for the kids. Grounds were clean and well kept.

Not impressed with the resort. We've stayed at much better places with half the reputation. The area offers plenty to do which was good because we had no desire to stay at the resort. Facilities and room could of been maintained better.

The room my family stayed in was second rate for a resort. The bathroom smelled moldy and the facility seemed worn. There are a lot of activities near the resort and a lot of places to eat but I found the accomodations to be inferior to other resorts that we have visited. Don't let the sales people hook you into a sales tour, it will take an act of Congress to get you out of the sales office.

Excellent- Williamsburg, Virginia is yhje place to go.

The Resort was fabulous. Everything you could possibly want was readily available. However, they do like to tack on extra charges when they get your credit card number, which I was not happy to see. A month later I found a $92 charge on my debit card from there for no apparent reason. I left the place neat and took nothing and still they charged me.

WE HAVE STAYED HERE FOR THE LAST 10 YEARS AT THANKSGIVING.EVERY YEAR PREVIOUS TO THIS ONE HAS BEEN EXCELLENT.HOWEVER THIS YEAR THE PLACE HAD A LOT TO BE DESIRED.THERE WAS NO ONE AT THE ACTIVITIES DESK THE WHOLE WEEK WE WERE THERE,WHICH MEANT THAT THERE WAS NO ACCESS TO THE RAQUETBALL EQUIPMENT.THE UNIT WAS GETTING WORN AND IT WAS NOT SUPPLIED WITH ALL THE ACCESSORIES IT NEEDED.HOPEFULLY THEY ARE IN A TRANSITION PHASE AND WILL BE BACK TO PAR SOON.

I became an owner during my second vacation at Powhatan Plantation, because it was so enjoyable and beautiful there the first time I visited. I have yet to do all the things I want to in the area.

There is so much right on the beautiful plantation grounds including swimming (indoor- outdoor pools), tennis, hiking, indoor sports, besides the outstanding outlet shopping, historical sites so near, optional tours to Washington, DC and/or sailing down the James River to the naval yards, visiting other plantations, Busch Gardens, Water Country, or even the ocean beaches which are a short drive away, and I could go on.

The two very good restaurants and the little grocery store and momento shop on site, plus the fun-to-shop-at very large and complete grocery and deli store at a shopping plaza a very short distance away, make living quite simple.

Hope you will make Powhatan Plantation your next vacation destination and enjoy it as I intend to do again.

The accomodations have been clean and cared for, are cozy but roomy with a well-equipted kitchen, and towels, and bedding supplied of course. I could not ask for more.

Have stayed there on 5 occassions at different times of the year and had a great time, every time.

Many activities on site as well as in the surrounding areas. Plan on going again.

We liked the place so much we've been back 3x! A beautiful resort, lots to do. Williamsburg is a great place for anyone interested in history.

Nice rooms, steam bath in the shower! Deck and fireplace. Beautiful grounds and pool. Great restaurant on site.

We stayed in a beautiful and spacious 2 bedroom unit on the second floor. Beautiful grounds including lots of geese! Lots of activities on site for kids. Very good service.