Experience Timeless Elegance at the Castle in the City: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

This August, immerse yourself in history and luxury thanks to Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, famously known as the ‘Castle in the City’. As this iconic hotel celebrates its 85th anniversary, now is the perfect time to discover why it remains a cherished landmark in downtown Vancouver, offering a stay rich in heritage while maintaining modern-day comforts.

 

A Masterpiece of Architecture

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is a historic symbol of the city’s architectural beauty thanks to its Art Deco design. Completed in 1939, this castle-style hotel features a beautiful façade of artful stonework, iconic towers, and an exterior that has become synonymous with the Vancouver skyline. It’s hard to believe you can step back into an age of elegance and refinement just moments from the bustling city core.

The grandeur of the hotel has aged beautifully thanks to a $75 million refurbishment in 2019, allowing the interior of the hotel to exude old-world charm with its vaulted ceilings, chandeliers, and elegant furnishings—instantly transporting guests to a bygone era of BC’s past—yet also embracing the present with meticulously restored rooms that offer the best of both worlds. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s storied past and elegance alongside state-of-the-art amenities, making for an indulgent and comfortable present-day stay.

85 Years of Celebrating Legacy and Luxury

Marking 85 years of exceptional hospitality, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is pulling out all the stops with a series of celebrations to honour its rich history. Among the most anticipated events is the ‘Dinner Through the Decades’ at Notch8 Restaurant & Bar, a culinary experience that takes diners on a nostalgic journey through the past with a special menu crafted by the hotel’s talented chef. 

Expect reimagined classics from each decade with a modern twist such as a Pureé Garbure Soup from the 1940s—a dish that pays homage to the hotel’s early days—or the Tenderloin of Beef Minute, reflecting the opulence of the 1960s. Finish your journey with the Old Fashioned Strawberry Shortcake, a delightful nod to the indulgent 1990s. Today’s menu also features farm-to-table creations that showcase contemporary culinary trends, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience, which you can enhance with expertly selected wine pairings that complement each dish. 

And while you’re at Notch8, be sure to ask for Adam, a 20-year veteran of the hotel whose wealth of knowledge and passion for its history will enrich your visit. Adam, who was hired at the hotel at just 19 years old, shared that, “The Company treats their people very, very well!” It definitely shows with his long tenure. 

Adam can recount plenty of charismatic stories about the hotel’s legacy—from the time he saw a copy of a menu that featured prime rib and French onion soup for just 39 cents, to the evolution of the restaurant in the last two decades—offering a unique insight into the Fairmont’s enduring appeal in downtown Vancouver.

“Notch8 has always been about more than just great food,” Adam explained. “It’s about creating memorable experiences.” From the AAA prime rib to locally sourced seafood and the decadent pastries made from scratch in the hotel’s expansive pastry kitchen, every detail reflects the team’s dedication to refined excellence. “Everybody on our team cares so much about our guests,” Adam adds, highlighting the exceptional customer service that has become synonymous with Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.

 

A Perfect Blend of History and Modern Luxury

The guest rooms and suites are a testament to the hotel’s commitment to preserving its fascinating 85-years of history while offering the finest modern amenities. Each space has been designed to balance classic elegance with contemporary comfort—think a mix of blue velvet lounging chairs as well as a high resolution television—ensuring that all guests enjoy a sense of luxury in the heart of the city. Whether you’re here for a relaxing vacation or an extended visit, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable stay.

 

Celebrate with Emily Carr Afternoon Tea

Another highlight of the 85th-anniversary celebrations is the Emily Carr Afternoon Tea, a wonderful experience inspired by one of Canada’s most beloved artists. In collaboration with the Vancouver Art Gallery, Emily Carr’s beautiful paintings are brought to life through a menu of carefully selected teas, artisan pastries, and sandwiches meant to immerse guests with Carr’s famous artwork through a forest-themed decor. The experience is set in a curated and stunning (and maybe even secret) location that embodies the natural beauty and artistic spirit of Carr’s most renowned works, providing peace from the hustle and bustle of the city. Imagine savouring a BC Forest Mushroom shortcrust tart, or a Huckleberry Cheesecake while sipping on 1907 Orange Pekoe. The Emily Carr tea will be wrapping up after Labour Day weekend, so be sure to book your experience soon so you don’t miss out.

 

A Call to Create New Memories

As Fairmont Hotel Vancouver celebrates 85 years of history and hospitality in BC’s biggest city, there’s no better time to experience the magic of this iconic landmark. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of its Art Deco architecture, the rich history embedded in its walls, or in search of some of the finest dining our province has to offer, the luxurious accommodations promise a memorable stay that will keep you dreaming to return.

From the moment you enter its doors in downtown Vancouver, you will find yourself captivated by both its history and their exceptional customer service. Whether meeting the valet, checking in at the front desk, or seeing housekeeping and restaurant staff each day—the hotel is committed to making your stay as exceptional as the building itself.

If you’re visiting the city from out east or as a BC local, consider the ‘Castle in the City’ for your next vacation and be a part of a legacy that continues to charm guests with timeless elegance and modern luxury. Book your stay today and embark at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver—where the past and present come together to create the ultimate guest experience.

To learn more, visit Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on their website.