Trapp Family Lodge

Our fifth visit over the past six years, as always- warm and welcoming. Each visit has magnified the importance f the Von Trapp family story and specific meaning to our own family and story. Highly recommend the experience of coming here and getting more acquainted with the history and challenges endured by the Von Trapp family when they first arrived in America- after having to flee Austria in 1938. Read less

I will start off by saying I was given direct permission by Walter Frame, the Director and Executive Vice President, husband to Kristina Von Trapp, granddaughter to Maria Von Trapp, to use his name as part of this experience. We are repeat guests, having spent our honeymoon and several anniversaries at the lodge. My wife grew up singing The Sound of Music songs, she played Maria in several theater productions, and has a very special place in her heart for the original story of the Von Trapps. We eat every meal at the lodge, and shop in their stores, never leaving the property during our stay. This year was our 10th anniversary, and spent a small fortune on a room for the eclipse. During our previous stays, the staff has been courteous, the rooms are clean, the atmosphere is welcoming, the food at the restaurant is decent, the Bierhall and Kaffeehaus are fun, and there are various family activities and events available. I am a certified FAA drone operator. During our most recent stay, I asked the staff at the lodge ahead of time confirming that no policy existed against drone aerial photography, and ensured there are were no FAA airspace restrictions over the lodge. Several minutes before the eclipse, I launched my drone and headed well-clear or the people attending to avoid distractions from the eclipse. The footage would have been incredible for this once in a lifetime event. The drone was out of view of the crowd, and was far enough away that you could not hear it. Walter and his friends were nearby, saw me launch the drone, then distracted me, yelling that the airspace was a “no drone zone”, which isn’t true. Such distractions are dangerous while somebody is operating a drone, so my wife approached him and explained that we had permission from the hotel staff. Rather than engage in courteous conversation, he belligerently shouted that he “owned” the property, and demanded that I land the drone or have the police called. To avoid further conflict, I complied, and he called my wife and I “rude” for taking photographs during the eclipse. I was not a nuisance, a distraction, or threat to anybody or anything. I had not received any complaints from guests or staff. If Walter Frame wants to institute a policy against drones operated from his property, then he should do so, and communicate said policy to his staff, and guests. We were shocked at disappointed to be chastised so rudely by a member of a family we revere. While I’m sure he hasn’t given this interaction a second thought, the experience of being at the lodge for the eclipse was tarnished by his unprofessional, and unreasonable behavior towards us. Our tradition of celebrating our anniversaries at the lodge have come to an end, sadly. Read less

Wow, what an amazing hotel. This place tells a story with the photographs on the walls and what a story it is. They are very welcoming, offered no great service, care and professionalism. Everything you want in one spot. The morning cleaning of the room is probably the best I have seen in any hotel. In and out before you even notice. Lots of activities, walks and wonderful gifts. Plus plus plus, a definite home away from home, no need to even leave the hotel and area they have it all. Thank you for an amazing stay. Read less