Fairmont Empress Hotel
British Columbia
The Fairmont Empress Hotel, commonly known as The Empress, is an iconic luxury hotel located in Victoria, British Columbia, overlooking the city's picturesque Inner Harbour. Opened in 1908 and designed by Francis Rattenbury, it is one of Canada's grand railway hotels and features a distinctive Châteauesque architectural style with gothic elements such as spires, gables, and polygonal turrets. The hotel has 464 guest rooms and suites, including elegant dining venues like the Lobby Lounge where the famous afternoon tea is served. It has undergone significant expansions in the early 20th century and a major restoration between 2015 and 2017 to preserve its historic charm and architectural integrity. Situated at the southern end of Downtown Victoria, it is close to major attractions including the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and the Maritime Museum of British Columbia. The hotel is managed by Fairmont Hotels and Resorts and is renowned for blending historic elegance with contemporary luxury, making it a cultural and architectural landmark in the region.
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Consejo: For the best experience, visit during spring through early fall when Victoria's Inner Harbour is vibrant and outdoor views are spectacular. Booking accommodations or afternoon tea in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. The hotel offers various packages and discounts for guests, including special rates for extended stays and event attendees. Arriving early allows guests to explore nearby attractions like the Parliament Buildings and Maritime Museum conveniently on foot.
Datos interesantes
- •The Empress is one of Canada's grand railway hotels and a National Historic Site of Canada since 1981.
- •Its design incorporates Châteauesque, neo-Gothic, Tudor, and Second Empire architectural elements.
- •The hotel features a famous afternoon tea service held in the Lobby Lounge, a longstanding tradition.
- •The building's exterior was once covered in ivy, which was removed during the 2015-2017 restoration to protect the brickwork and prevent animal habitation.
- •The hotel is connected to the Victoria Conference Centre via a conservatory built in 1989.
Historia
The Fairmont Empress Hotel was constructed between 1904 and 1908 by Canadian Pacific Hotels as part of their grand railway hotel chain.
Designed initially by Francis Rattenbury, the project was later overseen by William Sutherland Maxwell after Rattenbury's dismissal in 1907.
The hotel opened on January 20, 1908, and underwent two major expansions from 1910 to 1912 and in 1928.
It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1981 for its architectural significance.
A comprehensive restoration was completed between 2015 and 2017 to restore the building's exterior and interior, preserving its historic features while updating facilities to modern standards.
Guía del lugar
The Lobby Lounge
The elegant Lobby Lounge is renowned for its traditional afternoon tea service, offering guests a luxurious setting with classic décor and views of the Inner Harbour.
Architectural Design1908
The hotel showcases a blend of Châteauesque style with gothic spires, neo-Gothic dormers, Tudor porch elements, and a Second Empire style roof, making it an architectural masterpiece.
Victoria Conference Centre Connection1989
A conservatory built in 1989 connects the hotel to the Victoria Conference Centre, facilitating seamless event catering and guest services.
Contacto
Teléfono: (250) 384-8111
