The problem in the solarium on Edge is there are no tables except in the cafe. I found it frustrating having to put my cocktails on the ground. So if you want to play cards in the solarium there is nowhere else to do it. Not saying it's ok but they should put some tables around outside the cafe, if there is a known demand for it. Or just say no using tables for games during food service hours, which were quite limited.
As for the retreat, we never had a problem getting the area we wanted, hogs were no issue on Edge in Feb. We would go up around 10am and pick a spot in the shade and stay there all day. Usually it was the L-shaped couch/chair/coffee table set up we preferred. One day we went to grab a quick bite and left all our stuff there (very well spread out, clothes, hats, glasses, tote bag, water bottles, etc. it was obvious we would be back soon). We returned about 30 minutes later and some random guy was sitting on the end of our couch! It was kinda weird because he didn't leave when we returned and plopped ourselves back down. I didn't say anything. Turns out he was just dog tired from burning in the sun and wanted a seat in the shade for a bit. I didn't mind too much since the couch is gigantic but it was a bit awkward. He left after a little bit. I think they need more shade up there.
