“Victoria is a tweedy, daffodilish, green-fingered sort of place; a goldfish, fly-fishing, 5 o’clock teapot place…”
— Brian Hutchinson, Vancouver-based columnist and author
Across from the glittering harbor, a regal vine-draped building—also known as the grand dame in town—is where you want to stay when you visit Victoria, BC. Designed by Francis Mawson Rattenbury, an English architect who moved to Victoria in 1893, The Fairmont Empress has been a premiere resort destination for the province since opening in 1908.
The property offers an old world escape, with elegant and stately décor that moves from the lobby to the 477 rooms which range from junior suites, one and two bedroom suites with adjoining family rooms, to more lavish accommodations (transformed from a multimillion dollar renovation).
In addition to a serene spot to stay, The Empress is a destination for the English ritual of Afternoon Tea, a not-to-miss dining experience when you visit Victoria. It’s easy to indulge, from the fresh berries with a silky Empress cream to the smoked salmon pinwheels and plump house made scones. You will want to linger in the chandelier lit tea lobby—with live piano music, antique furnishings and harbor views (a delight for “Downton Abbey” fans).
Perfectly situated for exploring Victoria’s Old Town, you can venture out for historical walking tours, shopping (book lovers must visit Munro’s Books) or step just across the street for an afternoon sailboat cruise. On a summer or autumn evening, there’s no better spot than The Veranda at The Fairmont Empress to catch a sunset, bevvie of choice in hand.
Order the Vancouver Island Seafood Platter for a taste of the sea—the tower of Dungeness crab legs, local oysters, poached prawns, scallop ceviche and smoked salmon and candied salmon is a crowd pleaser. As the sky turns shades of pink and the sun dips behind sailboats in the harbor, reach to the side of your chair.
There you’ll find a cozy fleece wrap that was discreetly delivered just so you could stay and stargaze. Don’t forget to raise a glass of bubbly (try the Sumac Ridge Steller’s Jay) from the Okanagan and toast the majestic Northwest.
The Fairmont Empress || 721 Government Street, Victoria || fairmont.com/empress-victoria
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