The oldest of the four Fairmont properties in metropolitan Vancouver, the Hotel Vancouver opened in 1939 to much fanfare, including a visit from King George VI and Queen Elizabeth.
One of the grand Canadian Pacific Railway hotels built after the completion of Canada’s nationwide rail system, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver retains its stately historic ambiance, updated with the technology and amenities of a modern luxury property. In fact, the 80-year-old hotel recently unveiled a $55 million renovation to its guest rooms and heritage suites, lobby and sleek Notch8 Restaurant and Bar.
With a central location within walking distance of both the city’s convention center and the waterfront, the hotel is conveniently situated for both business and leisure travel. Despite the numerous contemporary towers that have been constructed around the property, its distinctive stone façade and green copper roof have kept this “Castle in the City” a downtown landmark.
One of the grand Canadian Pacific Railway hotels built after the completion of Canada’s nationwide rail system, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver retains its stately historic ambiance, updated with the technology and amenities of a modern luxury property. In fact, the 80-year-old hotel recently unveiled a $55 million renovation to its guest rooms and heritage suites, lobby and sleek Notch8 Restaurant and Bar.
With a central location within walking distance of both the city’s convention center and the waterfront, the hotel is conveniently situated for both business and leisure travel. Despite the numerous contemporary towers that have been constructed around the property, its distinctive stone façade and green copper roof have kept this “Castle in the City” a downtown landmark.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is one of the few properties in the city to maintain a historic style, with glittering chandeliers, marble floors and original woodwork. Ask at the concierge desk if you’d like to arrange a short, informal history tour.
- In a glass-enclosed greenhouse-like space on the second floor, the indoor pool feels bright and airy, even on a gray day.
- The luxury hotel boasts a central downtown location. It’s across from the Vancouver Art Gallery, just one block from the shops on Robson and Alberni streets, and a quick stroll to the waterfront and the Vancouver Convention Centre.
- Notch8, the lobby restaurant and bar, oozes throwback glamour with vintage black-and-white photos, cozy booths that resemble train cars (a nod to the hotel’s railway heritage), starburst chandeliers and a list of classic cocktails.
- There’s no need to leave the hotel to search for a souvenir. In the lobby, you’ll find several upscale shops, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, St. John, Omega and Canada’s flagship Dior boutique.
Things to Know
- Room configurations in this classic hotel vary significantly, even within the same room category, so call ahead if you’re looking for a larger bathroom, an extra spacious closet, a particular view or other amenities.
- Members of the Fairmont President’s Club, the brand’s frequent stay program, have access to a separate check-in line, free Wi-Fi, complimentary bike rental and workout gear to use during your stay.
- Work up a sweat at the hotel’s Sitka Physio and Wellness facility. Partake in classes such as yoga and Pilates or seek the expert help of an onsite physiotherapist for any ache or pain.
- Two canine ambassadors are available to greet you and offer cuddles. Your own four-legged friend is also welcome at this pet-friendly property.
The Rooms
- In most of the 557 recently renovated rooms and suites, decorated with dark wood furnishings and crisp white linens, there are handy reading lights on the headboards and electrical outlets built into the desks.
- Rooms on the upper levels of this 15-story building, including the ninth-floor Fairmont Gold rooms, typically offer more natural light; some have glimpses of the North Shore Mountains.
- Standard rooms are on the small side, offering between 275 and 300 square feet. For extra space, opt for one of the suites or specialty rooms that range in size from 550 to a palatial 1,250 square feet in the Lieutenant Governor’s Suite.
The Restaurant
- Notch8 features West Coast cuisine, with many dishes designed around items featured on archived menus from the hotel’s early days updated for modern palates.
- Art Deco-style grillwork helps subdivide the bar and dining areas, offering clusters of seating for quiet conversation. Several booths modeled after railway compartments are especially private.
- The Vancouver hotel serves a traditional afternoon tea, with themes that change seasonally, in the private dining room at the rear of the restaurant.
Getting There
900 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6C 2W6
TEL866-540-4452
TEL866-540-4452
TEL604-684-3131
TEL604-684-3131
NEARBY AIRPORT(S)
YVR (18-28 min)
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