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The Fairmont Empress 721 Government Street Victoria, BC V8W 1W5 Nightly Rates (431.00 - 431.00) 4 Star |
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| Property Description | |
| During the summer months, The Fairmont Empress in Victoria, British Columbia serves Afternoon Tea to more guests than most hotels in London, England. More than 900 people per day come to enjoy a tradition that has been part of the hotel since it opened in 1908.The Fairmont Empress has long been accustomed to entertaining Hollywood celebrities; Rita Hayworth, Jack Benny, Pat O'Brien, Douglas Fairbanks, Katherine Hepburn, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Tallulah Bankhead and a host of others have passed through its lobby. Shirley Temple arrived accompanied by her parents amid rumours that she had fled from California because of kidnapping threats, a story borne from the presence of two huge bodyguards who took the room opposite hers and always left their door open.In 1965, there was much debate on whether to tear down what was becoming a faded, dowdy hotel, to make room for a more modern, functional high-rise hotel. One local newspaper warned that, "Without this splendid relic of the Edwardian era, literally tens of thousands of tourists will never return. This is the Mecca, this is the heart and soul of the city." The decision was announced on June 10, 1966: The Fairmont Empress would not be demolished. Instead she would embark on a $4 million campaign of renovation and refurbishment, playfully dubbed "Operation Teacup."The walls of the hotel contain stories of unusual guests and employees. In 1987, a woman wrote about her wonderful stay at The Fairmont Empress and asked if other guests had received a similar late night visitor: a little girl who had watched over her bed and then floated across the room. There are also the stories of an early 20th century maid, who shows up now and again on the sixth floor to help with the cleaning.Throughout its history, The Fairmont Empress has played host to kings, queens, movie stars and many famous people. In 1919, Edward, Prince of Wales, waltzed into the dawn in the Crystal Ballroom - an event considered by Victorians to be of such importance that almost 50 years later, the obituaries of elderly ladies would appear under headlines such as, "Mrs. Thornley-Hall Dies. Prince of Wales Singled Her Out."In 1989, over $45 million was spent in the royal restoration; all the guest rooms were renovated, and a health club and indoor swimming pool were added. With an emphasis on craftsmanship, no attempt was made to give the hotel a new image. Instead, the goal was to restore The Fairmont Empress to its original elegance.The strong emotions The Fairmont Empress evokes in many of her guests and protectors is exemplified in the statement made by an irate gentleman, as workers raised the sign above the front entrance: "Anyone who doesn't know this is The Empress shouldn't be staying here." |
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| Room Information | |
 Fairmont Room Our classic Fairmont Rooms are furnished in traditional elegant decor and can accommodate up to four people. Each room has a cozy sitting area with two armchairs, some with ample space to accommodate a crib or rollaway. Bed Type: one King, one Queen, two Doubles or two Twin beds Size: from 250 to 300 sq. ft. View: City or inner courtyard Deluxe Room Our spacious Deluxe Rooms feature traditional elegant decor with large sitting areas. Excellent for families, these rooms can accommodate up to five people with additional space for a rollaway or crib. The sitting area is furnished with either a sofa, sofabed or two armchairs. Rooms for the physically challenged are available in this guest room category. Bed Type: one King or two Queen beds Size: from 350 to 400 sq. ft. View: City or inner courtyard Harbor View Deluxe Room Our Harbor View Deluxe Rooms are elegantly furnished and feature a spectacular view of Victoria's Inner Harbor. Each room is appointed with two armchairs and can comfortably accommodate up to two people. Bed Type: one King, one Queen or two Double beds. (Please be advised that the availability of rooms with two Double beds is limited) Size: from 250 to 275 sq. ft. View: Harbor view  AFairmont Gold Room Fairmont Gold guest rooms are located on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 8th floors. All Fairmont Gold Rooms are non-smoking and offer business amenities, private direct-dial telephone with complimentary business cards and personalized wake-up calls. Nightly turn-down service, overnight shoe-shine and morning newspaper delivery are services provided to all Fairmont Gold guests. Please be advised that guests accompanied by pets cannot be accommodated in Fairmont Gold Rooms.Bed Type: one King or one Queen bed (a very few rooms have two Double beds)Size: from 300 to 450 sq. ft. View: city or harbor view (priced accordingly) |
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| Directions | |
| -Proceed south on Highway 17 from airport -Highway 17 becomes Blanshard St. in the city limits of Victoria -Continue south on Blanshard St. -Turn right on Belleville Street -Continue on Belleville Street for 2 blocks -Turn right on Government Street, The Empress is located at 721 Government Street Approximately 27 km/17 miles (30 minute drive) Approximately 50 km/31 miles (3½ hours by car/ferry) TransportationBus -- Pacific Coach Lines has 7 departures from the airport, going to the Victoria bus depot. Departures -7:45am, 9:45am, 11:45am, 1:45pm, 3:45pm,5:45pm and 7:45pm Time: Approximately 3½ hours For more information, call Pacific Coach Lines 1-800-661-1725 TaxiGuests must take a taxi from Vancouver Airport to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, get on the ferry to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal and then take a taxi to The Empress. Click here for ferry information. Approximately $100.00 in taxi fare. Driving/Ferry DirectionsStep 1: From Vancouver International Airport to Tsawwassen Ferry terminal (Vancouver)Takes approximately 25 minutes (non-rush hour). Upon exiting the Airport, follow signs to Richmond via Miller Road. Take Miller Road and proceed across the Moray Bridge to Sea Island Way From Sea Island Way take the Highway 99 South entrance. Once on Highway 99 South, continue through George Massey Tunnel After the George Massey Tunnel, Take Highway 17 Exit to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal Please arrive 30 minutes prior to sailing departure to allow time for ticket purchase and ferry loading. Step 2: From Tsawwassen Ferry terminal to Swartz Bay Ferry terminal (Victoria)Ferry ride (passenger and/or car ferry) is approximately 1½ hour sailing time. The ferry runs at least every odd hour between 7:00am and 9:00pm (i.e. 7:00am, 9:00am, 11:00am, etc.) For prices or schedule, contact BC Ferries at (250) 386-3431 Step 3: From Swartz Bay Ferry terminal to The Fairmont EmpressProceed south on Highway 17 from Swartz Bay Ferry terminal Highway 17 becomes Blanshard Street in the city limits of Victoria Continue south on Blanshard Street and Turn right on Belleville Street Continue on Belleville Street for 2 blocks Turn right on Government Street, The Empress is located at 721 Government Street Driving time is approximately 40 minutes Located on Government Street between Humboldt and Belleville Streets, The Fairmont Empress is a world renowned landmark and restored heritage hotel overlooking the inner harbour of Victoria. The symbolic centrepiece of Victoria, The Fairmont Empress is conveniently located adjacent to the Convention Centre, Parliament Buildings, Royal British Columbia Museum, shops and local sites. The Victoria Clipper docks a five minute walk from the front door. VICTORIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Approx. 27km/17miles (30 mins) |
| Guarantee Policy | |
| All reservations must be guaranteed to a Credit Card |
| Cancellation Policy | |
| 24 hours prior to arrival subject to change based on seasonal demand |
| Restaurant Information | |
Bengal Lounge
The Bengal Lounge Drawing inspiration from Queen Victoria's role as the Empress of India, this celebrated lounge is renowned throughout Victoria for its authentic curry cuisine and signature martini menu. Overlooking rose garden, the richly appointed Bengal Lounge offers not only a delicious curry buffet but also an impressive international a la carte menu for both lunch and dinner. Cocktail and martini aficionados will appreciate our vast selection of signature drinks with names such as the Bengal Tiger, Ivory Hunter and Tiger's Kiss, to name just a few!Hours of Operation:The Bengal Lounge is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Curry Lunch Buffet is served daily from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Curry Dinner Buffet is served daily from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Live jazz trio plays on Friday and Saturday nights from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.Dress Code:Smart casual. Walking shorts, jeans that are not ripped or torn and running shoes are allowed. Tank tops, sleeveless shirts, ''short'' shorts or cut-offs are not allowed. Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made direct through Dining Reservations by calling (250) 389-2727.Please Note:The Bengal Lounge is a licensed establishment. British Columbia liquor licensing laws do not permit guests 18 years and under to enter the lounge.
Empress Room
The Empress Room Experience the elegance of a bygone era in the award-winning Empress Room. Lush tapestry-covered walls rise 20-feet to meet a richly carved mahogany ceiling, while candlelight and the soothing sounds of harpist Elizabeth Ely provide an elegant backdrop for all who dine in this unforgettable room.Recent recipient of the prestigious Wine Spectator's 'Best of Award of Excellence', the magnificent Empress Dining Room boasts over 800 selections of Canadian and International wines, paired with exceptional 4-Diamond cuisine.Empress Room Chef Rob Cleland and his professional culinary team will surpass your wildest expectations with an eclectic mix of classic cuisine, fresh local ingredients and Pacific Northwest regional flare.Hours of Operation:The Empress Room is open daily for dinner from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. from April through September. The Dining Room is closed Mondays and Tuesdays during the winter season and is closed for the entire month of January. Harpist Elizabeth Ely plays five days a week.Dress Code:The dress code is smart casual. Collared shirt required for men, jacket not required. Jeans, t-shirts, sleeveless shirts or shorts are not permitted.Reservations:Reservations are required. During peak season, reserve one to two weeks in advance to avoid disappointment. Call Dining Reservations at (250) 389-2727 or book online with a room reservation.
 Kipling's Kipling's Named after famed author and frequent visitor to Victoria, Rudyard Kipling, this bright, elegant restaurant is an informal alternative for casual, family and all-day dining. Renowned throughout Victoria as 'the place to go' for Sunday brunch, Kipling's offers a sumptuous hot and cold buffet and West coast inspired à la carte menu. Kipling's is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with something for everyone to savor and indulge in. Hours of Operation: Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Dress Code: Casual attireReservations: Reservations are available for lunch and dinner and can be made direct through Dining Reservations by calling (250) 389-2727.  Afternoon Tea Afternoon Tea Indulge in one of Victoria's grandest traditions - Afternoon Tea at The Fairmont Empress. For over 95 years, the majestic lobby of this landmark hotel has played host to England's most beloved ritual - the taking of Afternoon Tea.Award-winning Pastry Chef D'oyen Christie works his magic, ensuring an authentic and memorable experience - from your very first sip of specially blended Empress tea, right through to his freshly baked scones, served with Jersey cream and preserves. Presented table-side in the relaxing atmosphere of the elegantly restored Tea Lobby, Library Lounge or Empress Room Harborside, Afternoon Tea is an absolute 'must do' for all who visit Victoria.Reservations:Reservations are required and should be made direct with the hotel, one to two weeks in advance to avoid disappointment. Tables are held for ten minutes after reservation time.Dress Code: Smart-casualReservations:Please call Dining Reservations at (250) 389-2727 or book on-line with a room reservation. Seatings: Up to five seatings daily from 12:00 p.m.  Kosher Food Kosher Food Kosher food is available on request. Our Director of Food & Beverage will be happy to assist you with the details.  In-Room Dining In-Room Dining Whether it's an intimate dinner for two, a picnic lunch to-go for a day of sight-seeing or just a midnight snack for one, our In-Room Dining staff will be happy to assist you!Hours of Operation:Breakfast is available from 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. All-day menu is available from 11:30 a.m. to midnight.Please Note:A 15% Gratuity and $3 CAD In-Room Dining Charge will be added to each bill. |
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| Recreation Information | |
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Bicycles are available through Budget Rent a Car, which is located directly behind the hotel. Rental fees are either per hour or per day The hotel offers overnight storage for guest if required. Bungy Zone offers the only legal bridge jump site in North America. Fun to watch, a thrill to do. Now you can experience the ultimate Bungee jumping experience: Night Jumping! Free shuttle service, located approximately 1 hour north of Victoria. Contact the hotel concierge for more details. Enjoy some of the most spectacular fishing Vancouver Island has to offer. Few other places in North America can boast such great fishing so close to an urban area. Various charter companies offer trips daily in high season. For low season, please contact hotel concierge as to schedules and charter possibilities. Available on Hotel Grounds. Guests may obtain croquet mallets from the concierge desk. *Arbutus Ridge-Duncan Semi-Private 1-250-743-5000 *Ardmore-930 Ardmore Drive Public Course 1-250-656-4621 *Blenki Valley-4237 Blenki Rd Driving Range 1-250-721-2000 *Broom Hill- 2197 Otter Point Rd Public Course 1-250-642-6344 *Cedar Hill-1400 Derby Rd Public Course 1-250-595-2823 *Cordova Bay-5333 Cordova Bay Rd Public Course 1-250-658-4075 *Glen Meadows-1050 McTavish Rd Semi-Private 1-250-656-3136 *Gorge Vale - 629 Craigflower Rd Semi-Private 1-250-383-6451 *Henderson Park-2291 Cedar Hill Rd Public Course 1-250-370-7200 *Metchosin-4100 Metchosin Public Course 1-250-478-3266 *Mt. Douglas -4225 Blenkensop Rd Public Course 1-250-477-8314 *Olympic View - 643 Latoria Public Course 1-250-474-3673 *Prospect lake -4633 Prospect Lake Rd. Public Course 1-250-479-2688 *Royal Colwood-629 Goldstream Ave Semi-Private 1-250-478-8331 *Sunshine Hills -7081 Central Saanich Rd Public Course 1-250-652-5215 *Uplands-3300 Cadboro Bay Rd Semi-Private 1-250-592-7313 *Victoria-1110 Beach Drive Private course 1-250-598-4321 ** All rates based on 18 holes unless noted otherwise. ** Empress Taxi Service Available ** Private Clubs do award reciprocal membership privileges Discover the spirit of the west coast nature. Half and full-day guided hikes to the most spectacular natural settings on Southern Vancouver Island. These high quality interpretive nature hikes will heighten your environmental awareness and nature appreciation. the Victoria area offers beautiful rugged, coastal hikes or mountainous, panoramic climbs. There is hiking for every level of hiker-from novice to a seasoned expert, challenge lies in wait! Mountain Park Stables: Horseback riding, trail rides and pony rides for all ages and abilities. Located in the scenic Blenkinshop Valley, just minutes from the heart of Victoria. 1/4 of a mile from hotel. Beacon Hill Park Hours of operation: 6:00am - 12:00 midnight No Charge for use by registered guests of the hotel. The Health Club is located on two levels, with the fitness centre upstairs and the wet areas and change rooms downstairs. Massage Therapy is available Make appointments through the Concierge Desk. The fitness centre features: Stationary bikes Rowing machines Universal gym Stairmaster Treadmill Children under the age of 16 & 17 need adult supervision Children under 15 are not allowed in the exercise room SWIMMING POOLLarge indoor heated swimming pool Children's "kiddie pool" The pool is not supervised 2 saunas: men's / women's in change rooms. The Jacuzzi is located by the swimming pool. Discover the beauty of Canada's west coast from a sea kayak. Explore intricate shorelines while gliding past sandy beaches. Join any sea kayaking course ranging from 3-hour evening clinics to full weekend adventures. Indulge yourself in the joys of sea kayaking on a guided tour. Scheduled tours available June-September, however clinics and group tour bookings available year-round. Peddle your way through the city and back roads of Victoria. The seaside vistas and rolling hills of Victoria make biking a favourite activity in the area. The Galloping Goose Trail, an old railway track, provides automobile-free cycling as it takes you through the various communities of Victoria. Courts are within a short walk from the hotel at the Beacon Hill Park. Treat yourself to a short scenic harbour and waterfront cruise, half and full day trips. The superb winds and backdrop of the Victoria skyline and Olympic Mountains make for a great sailing and sightseeing adventure. Don't forget your camera as your photographic safari leads you to a vast array of marine life; Grey whales, orca whales, bald eagles, seals, sea lions, porpoises, and otters are frequently seen in the waters surrounding the southern tip of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and the U.S. San Juan Islands. To the west is the Pacific Ocean, and to the east there is a myriad of Gulf Islands ideal for diving and exploring. The variety of marine life, diving conditions and underwater terrain are endless. Visit with the giant pacific octopus, wolf eels, tons of invertebrates, whales, seals, sea lions, and wrecks. In addition to the hundreds of historical wrecks existing around Vancouver Island, two ships have recently been sunk to create artificial reefs. Courts are located at the YMCA - 5 minute walk from the Hotel. |
 Location: 45 minutes from the hotel (21km/12 miles north of Victoria)Tel: 1-866-652-4422 (toll free).Website: www.butchartgardens.comButchart Gardens is 130 acres of horticulture beauty. The Gardens provide entertainment, night illuminations, fireworks (Saturday nights June 30th - September 1st), gift store, visitor services, and 2 restaurants on site. It is suggested that visitors allow for at least 2 hours to tour the Gardens. Attraction is wheelchair accessible. Umbrellas, cameras, wheelchairs and strollers are available on a loan basis. Hours of Operation:Gates open at 9:00am (except Christmas & New Year's Day, 1:00pm) Closing time changes on a monthly basis (as early as 3:30pm and as late as 10:30pm)Check with Concierge Desk to confirm time. Transportation: Grayline Tours: Departs hourly in the summer, from the front of The Fairmont Empress. (Check with concierge desk for Spring and Fall schedule and prices.) Price includes round-trip narrated transportation on the red double-decker bus, AND Admission to the gardens Total trip is 3 hours 1½ hours to walk around gardens on own (guests may stay longer and catch a later bus back to hotel). 1-800-663-8390 Grayline Shuttle Express (SUMMER only) Departs approximately every 30 minutes from the bus depot behind The Fairmont Empress. Price includes each way, directly to/from the Butchart Gardens. Takes about 30 minutes. Not narrated and not a double-decker bus. Usually starts running mid-May or early June. Guests can choose to purchase admission tickets at same time, or separately at the Gardens. Victoria City Transit Departs approximately every hour, from behind The Fairmont Empress, in front of the Crystal Gardens, on Douglas Street. Bus number is 75 and trip takes about 55 minutes Exact change is needed Guest should speak with Concierge desk to obtain a schedule Admission must be purchased separately Taxi Price is approximately $30.00 plus trip Trip takes about 25 minutes Admission must be purchased separately Location: half hour drive; 1461 Benvenuto (can take Grayline Tours or city bus #75)Tel: (250) 652-3822Website: http://www.butterflygardens.com/aboutus.htm Butterfly world is a lush, indoor tropical garden where flowers are always blooming and butterflies are always flying. If bright colours such as red or pink are worn, a butterfly may land upon you. Hours: 9:30am - 5:00pm Attraction is wheelchair accessible Location: right behind the hotelTel: (250) 381-1277From the exotic to the serene, stop by and admire the unique plants and animals in this historic conservatory. Study the bats in their darkness, dance with butterflies in their den or try standing on one leg with the pink flamingos. Located right behind the hotel. Hours: 10:00am - 4:30pm (Winter), 9am-6pm(April 4-Mid June), 8am-8pm(Summer) This attraction is wheelchair accessible Location: 5 minute walk; 490 BellevilleDo you want to see the wonders of the ocean, but do not want to get wet? Stop by this exhibit, a short walk across the harbour from the hotel and see the resident octopus in his full tentacle glory. Dive shows every 30 minutes starting at 10:30am ending at 8:30pm Hours: 9:00am - 9:00pm (May-September), 10:00am - 5:00pm (October-April) Please note: This attraction is NOT wheelchair accessible, and there are no public washrooms. Location: half hour drive; 505 QuayleTel: (250) 479-6162Come visit the beauty of 110 acres of property, gardens and beauty. The gardens are operated by the members formed into a non-profit function almost entirely operated by volunteers. Hours: Dusk to dawn This attraction is wheelchair accessible. Tel: (250) 388-6539Website: http://www.grayline.ca/victoria/VicGrandCity.html Offered by Greyline bus tours. It runs 3 times daily (10h00am, 12 & 2:h00 pm) Approx 1 1/2 hours Tickets can be purchased directly in the hotel Whale Watching Tours, Fishing, Sailing, and Scuba If guests would like to book a whale watching tour they can contact the guest services desk at the hotel between 8am and 10pm from May until October and contact the front desk from November until April. Tel: (250) 388-6539Web Site: http://www.victoriatours.com/ssover.htmlThis tour is provided by Grey Line and starts on December 3rd - Jan 02nd with the exception of December 25th. This is a 3 hour tour. Location: 2 minute walk; 649 Humboldt StreetTel: (250) 385-9731Website: http://www.miniatureworld.com Step into the future as you float through the solar system on your way to the historic battles of yesteryear, across Canadian landscape, through the Big Top and fairgrounds, to downtown and the beautifully decorated doll houses of an era gone by. Located on the north side of the hotel. Hours: 9:00am - 5:30pm daily , 9:00am - 7:00pm (Weekends in May), 8:30am - 9:00pm (June 15-September 15) , This attraction is wheelchair accessible. Location: 15 minute walk from the hotel Tel: 250-381-4422Website: http://www.city.victoria.bc.ca/beacon.htm Every one loves animals, at the petting farm, you can pet and play with a variety of mild mannered farm animals. Just a 15 minute walk away. While at the park, head over to the east side to playground off of Cook Street to swing, teeter or totter. Hours: 10am-5pm (seasonal attraction, call for hours during off season) Rates: By donation Attraction is wheelchair accessible Location: 20 minute drive; 603 Fort Rodd HillTel: (250) 387-2080Website: http://www.harbour.com/parkscan/frh/ Take a step inside Canada's oldest west coast lighthouse and take a look at the colourful displays that tell the stories of the ships wrecked and lives saved. Hours: 10am-5pm weekends (November to February) , 10am-5pm daily (March to October) Please note: This attraction has some difficult areas for wheelchairs Location: 40 minute walk; 1401 Rockland AveTel: (250) 387-2080Wander through the gardens of this beautiful property. There is no admittance to the residence Hours: From dusk until dawn Rates: Free Location: 2 minute walkTel: (250) 387-3046Free tours are offered during the week. Visitors will be walked through the legislature buildings and are given history and details to Canada's legislature. Call for tour times. Hours: 9am-5pm(Monday-Friday) Rates: Free This attraction is wheelchair accessible  Location: half hour walk; 1040 Moss StreetTel: (250) 384-4101Website: Art Gallery of Victoria - http://aggv.bc.ca/ Featuring west coast artists. Emily Carr exhibit. Hours: 10:00am - 5:00pm (Monday to Saturday), 10:00am-9:00pm (Thursday), 1:00pm - 5:00pm (Sunday) Attraction is wheelchair accessible Location: 30 minute drive; SaanichTel: (250) 363-0001Website: http://www.hia.nrc.ca/facilities/dao/dao.html Come out and see the stars and the magical wonders of the evening sky. Guided tours are available every Saturday night from April to October Hours: 9:15am-4:30pm weekdays, weekends in July and August only Tel:250-383-5843Come visit the home of the famous Canadian artist and author, Emily Carr. Hours: 10am-5pm (May 19-October 12) This attraction is wheelchair accessible, but please note there are no wheelchair accessible washrooms Location: Just around the inner harbour from the hotel, in front of the parliament buildingsTel: 250-388-4431Home to many of the world's most famous faces - Fairy tale characters, British royalty, politicians, and celebrities and the "House of Horrors" come to life in this attraction. Hours: 9am-7:30pm (Mid May-September), 9:30am-5pm(October-April), 11am-5pm Sundays (October-April) This attraction is wheelchair accessible |