This text is part of the special book Plaisirs
Most Fairmont hotels in Canada tell a special story related to the construction of the country’s railways. Even today, their experience is everywhere through these monuments. Profile of the Hotel Vancouver.
The majestic Vancouver hotel opened its doors in 1939. “But its story begins in 1888, as a farmhouse, shortly after the construction of the railways in the region,” says Rebecca MacDonald, manager of marketing and relations hotel public. Undoubtedly, these pave the way for travellers. However, there is quickly a lack of space to accommodate them.
However, it was necessary to wait until 1916 to see the appearance of a real hotel, with 14 floors. “Then, a third version of the Vancouver hotel was built in 1939, to accommodate King George VI and his wife, Queen Elizabeth. [la reine mère]during their royal tour in May,” she adds.
This monarchical visit positions the hotel as a benchmark for accommodation with imposing architecture largely inspired by the castles of the Loire and Scotland.
From then on, celebrities and high dignitaries regularly frequented the famous castle in the city, which quickly gave it the reputation of a cultural icon of all kinds. Everyone wants to be seen here.
HERE Hotel Vancouver
And it’s not just social events that attract passers-by to the hotel. It is also since the 17e floor of the establishment where the programs of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) were broadcast until 1975. This was also the case at the Château Laurier, in Ottawa, from 1924 to 2004.
For 25 years, the legendary Dal Richards — the king of swing — performed five nights a week in the ballroom with his 11-piece orchestra. Their concerts are so popular that the Saturday night concert is broadcast live on CBC.
While elements of decor and architecture constantly recall the various eras through which the Hotel Vancouver has passed, a few rituals are still practiced. Afternoon tea service has been offered here since 1939.
As in most Fairmont Hotels Resorts properties around the world, this ritual is a must. We go there with the family on special occasions or we collect services from one continent to another to taste the various local interpretations of English tea.
And Hotel Vancouver doesn’t take afternoon tea service lightly. It already stands out with its thematic menu offered at the Notch8 restaurant. Every season it changes. At the time of our visit, the menu and decor are a nod to the popular Netflix TV series The lady’s game. Since February 23, they evoke the spring bloom.
Above all, it offers the royal tea service. The expanded menu includes sandwiches, such as Dungeness crab served on toasted brioche bread and garnished with lemon pearls, and pastries, such as goat cheese and mascarpone cake with cranberry jelly and caramelized pistachios. Castle life, what!
Our journalist was a guest of Destination Vancouver and Fairmont Hotels Resorts.
This special content was produced by the Special Publications team of the Duty, pertaining to marketing. The drafting of Duty did not take part.