The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

We stayed two nights at the Lake Oconee Ritz in July. The second night I was awoken by something around my face. The next morning, en route to a family wedding, I saw five bite marks on my right wrist and shoulder. I immediately called security to let them know I had been bitten overnight by a bat. We have gone through all the appropriate channels, sending them emails with all our ER bills (close to $6,000). Every time we have requested an update we have had no response from the hotel. This terrible event happened over two months ago. We have spent countless hours at the ER going through rabies shots. We missed out on family wedding events from the time we had to spend at the hospital. Not to mention how traumatic it was to wake up and find out that you had been bitten by a bat in your hotel room. The Ritz has completely failed by not responding to requests for reimbursement for the ER bills, at a minimum. They have shown no compassion or care for their customer. It’s unacceptable, and unbelievable the lack or concern, or responsibility, they have taken regarding their customer’s health and welfare. Shame on you, Ritz Carlton. Do better.

What more can I say? I'll just keep this factual. In the early morning of the second night of our stay here both my wife and I were bitten by a bat while we slept. We never opened the door to the outside deck during our stay so the bat was either already there, or got in through the ductwork. We were in a top floor room. We both had to undergo a series of 5 rabies shots, all at an Emergency Room, costing us thousands of dollars out of pocket and hours waiting for treatment. Neither Ritz security/risk nor Management were helpful in getting us any reimbursement for the expenses we incurred for these treatments. I understand bats don't know the difference between a Ritz Carlton and a motel off the highway, but we expected better treatment as long-term good customers of the chain. I would avoid this hotel.

We stayed for 5 days and the property and staff were amazing. Our kids had plenty to do. We were also able to do family photos with the on-site Photography Concierge. The photographer, Andre, was phenomenal and the overall service was beyond what we expected.

I've stayed at this hotel from the first weekend it was open. I'm giving it a one star because of the excessive rates and fees they charge. Since Marriott purchased the Ritz brand this hotel has lost a lot of what made it special. Not only are there excessive room rates (that's always been a thing and no surprise with Ritz properties) but now the resort fee. Not really sure it's worth what you have to pay for that. But now as a Marriott Bonvoy Titanium member you now have to pay $500 per day if you want lounge access, something that is supposed to be a comped benefit of being a Titanium level member. Seems they're becoming very greedy. Charge more, give nothing. People are super nice and friendly but this lounge access fee is pure greed.

We truly enjoyed our stay at the hotel. The relaxing lake view made our vacation even more peaceful and enjoyable. There were plenty of activities for the kids, which kept them entertained throughout our stay. We also loved all the restaurants we dined at. Every meal was delicious, and the service was outstanding. We found ourselves going back to Gaby’s several times because we loved the casual atmosphere and great food. The staffs even remembered our names, which made us feel so welcome. A special thank you to Michelle for being so kind and thoughtful. She even remembered our kids’ names, which made our experience extra special. We had a wonderful time and will definitely be coming back. Highly recommended!