Originally Posted by
ClarkGriswold
I visit both properties at least once a year. I like them both. Service at both is excellent. A quick brain dump. If you have a specific question, I can answer.
Lost Pines:
It's newer. It's bigger (more walking if your room is at the end of the resort) It's more secluded (more land, a little quieter, hard to get food off property) . Better golf course (or so I'm told, not a golfer). Better splash around pool for small children.
Hill Country:
It's a little smaller, easier to walk around. Still beautiful and relatively quiet, but in the middle of a urban area, so very easy to switch up dining options (and Sea World). Much better, longer lazy river. Has the waverider.
Other stuff:
Hill Country rates are almost always cheaper than Lost Pines (if on points, Category 4 vs Category 5). There is a little more snootiness by clientele (which annoys me) at Lost Pines. Customers at Hill Country are generally more laid back. Smores at both (lost pines experience is better / smoother).
Can echo most of what is said here... I think they are pretty equal which makes Hill Country a better value with points, although there can be good Points and Cash offers at Lost Pines. Have to disagree on the Lazy River comment though, as I believe both rivers are about the same length (around 1,000 feet) and I asked about this once ;-)
Advice: Call and check on whether the lazy rivers are heated! There has been debate on this, and if they aren't heated be advised they might be too cold to swim in.... If one is and one isn't, I'd go with the property that heats the lazy river.
Lost Pines definitely has a wilderness vibe (and associated pros/cons) and Hill Country has a suburbia vibe (again, pros/cons). Lost Pines is IN San Antonio so you can enjoy the city and its attractions, whereas Lost Pines is sorta close to Austin...
IF you are a Globalist with upgrades - the suites at both properties are great and highly recommended! They are not junior suites (even though they are advertised as such) as they have a full bedroom, pull out sofa, full size dining table, etc. Get one if you can!