Australian travellers exploring Canada this summer are eager to make their accommodation as memorable as the trip itself, clambering to stay in some of the country’s most iconic hotels, whose striking architecture, exclusivity and indulgent service have helped them acquire landmark status. Read on for three legendary Canadian stays.
1.Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland and Labrador
It’s a striking example of world-class innovation.
The magnificent Fogo Island Inn stands on crooked pilotis on the dramatic and rocky north-east coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, providing panoramic views through its floor-to-ceiling windows, surrounded by whales, seabirds and icebergs.
The island’s people and stories are felt throughout the Inn: bespoke furniture and fixtures entirely handmade by local carpenters; the textiles– quilts, rugs, pillows – are hand-crafted by island artisans following the centuries-old tradition of “made not bought”.
The pristine, solitary island awakens the senses and inspires creativity. Enjoy an art workshop, hike the rugged coastal trails and fish for cod the traditional way. Fogo Island Inn embodies the vibrant spirit of the island and passes it on to all who stay there.
Photo By: Toshi Kawano / Insight-Photography.com
2.Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
It’s little wonder Quebec City’s Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, with its incredible history and beautiful European architecture, is said to be the most photographed hotel in the world. Perched on a hill overlooking the walled city of Old Quebec, it’s one of Canada’s most magnificent buildings.
Discover the unique stories behind eleven of Canada’s Fairmont Hotels – each of them an historical and architectural monument – and delve into their glamorous past and present glory.
In Victoria, on Vancouver Island, the historic Fairmont Empress smiles down upon the city from her imposing throne on the harbour-front, where she has watched over her subjects since the early 20th century when the hotel was built as a tribute to Queen Victoria. High tea at the Empress is mandatory, a timeless experience taken up by more than 80,000 guests annually.
Stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta and find out why it’s Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies”, or explore turrets reminiscent of a French estate at Ottawa’s landmark Fairmont Château Laurier, next door to the historic Parliament Buildings.
Every illustrious Fairmont has its own distinctive character, but each one serves up the same gracious hospitality and world-class cuisine.
3.Sparkling Hill Resort, British Columbia
Nothing says luxury like the 3.5 million Swarovski crystals adorning the foyer of Sparkling Hill Resort.
Perched atop a granite bluff overlooking the Okanagan Valley in southern British Columbia, this high-end spa with its striking contemporary architecture spares no expense to create the ultimate in holistic wellness experiences.
Choose from more than 100 different healing and pampering treatments, including its signature Cryo Cold Chamber. Brace yourself for three minutes in minus 110 degrees Celsius where your nervous and circulatory systems will undergo a boost like no other.
Take in the sweeping landscapes of thriving wine country that surround the resort and feast on locally-sourced farm-to-table creations at the PeakFine Restaurant.
Fair warning: after immersing yourself in this 12,000 square metre spa, with its seven aromatherapy steam rooms, three indoor/outdoor pools and endless treatments, your body, mind and spirit will sparkle like the crystals that festoon the ceiling.
Getting there
Air Canada has direct flights to Vancouver from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, with connecting flights to central and eastern Canada.
www.keepexploring.com.au
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