In a thriving downtown like Vancouver, when “what’s new” drives dining and accommodation decisions, things that aren’t the latest model quickly get hidden. I’m guilty of it—when I visit a city one of the first things I ask is “what’s new?” Fortunately I also ask “what’s great?”
Hotel Le Soleil is one of those seemingly hidden gems in downtown Vancouver. Tucked along a one way street in the Business District, this sumptuous all-suite property really is a jewel. The property was built in the late 90’s, when boutique hotels entered Vancouver’s lexicon and cookie-cutter rooms were no longer “what’s new.” At that time, the per suite build cost for Le Soleil was the highest on record in the city, and you can still feel that generous expenditure now.
Sumptuous was my first impression upon entering the lobby. After the warm welcome by attentive door and front desk staff, I was greeted by soaring 30-foot-high vaulted and gilded ceilings, crystal chandeliers, fluted columns, satin-decked sofas and original art. The feel continues in the 119 comfortable suites, reflective of the same classic and timeless French aesthetic via textured wallpaper, down duvets, Italian marble and Aveda toiletries. Large windows look out onto neighboring glass towers, busy street life and the hustle of the city, but the rooms are blessedly quiet. A split of Similkameen Valley wine star, Clos du Soleil, was available in my room (brilliant marketing connection), and turn-down service brought delightful local chocolates. What more does a traveler need?
Well—a tasty bite and strong cocktail never hurt. The on-site restaurant, The Copper Chimney, offers contemporary Indian cuisine, and does a busy lunch with the local office crowd with their innovative Tiffin-to-go curries. I enjoyed a late afternoon cocktail in my cushy booth beside the open kitchen (and the namesake copper chimney), watching suits, families and hotel guests mingling over veggie samosas and chicken tikka lollipops and smelling the alluring spices of India. The space is grand in scale and décor, centered on a grand spiral staircase leading to balcony dining and private dining rooms.
Ideally located (three quick blocks to the Vancouver Convention Centre) in the center of it all, while at the same time serenely quiet and tucked away—Le Soleil may not be new, but is certainly now newly refreshed on my radar.
Executive Hotel Le Soleil || 567 Hornby Street, Vancouver || hotellesoleil.com
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