Fairmont Empress

Incredible harbor location, innovated rooms, prompt service when requested. Some shortcomings include overly narrow baths, which is likely due to the original century old room design, and the reception personnel being less professional than expected. At the time of check in, they could not tell where on the floor our room is located citing as an excuse that there are too many rooms for them to know where each room is. Apparently the reception personnel was not even familiar with the hotel's floor plan.

We had a truly amazing stay at this legendary hotel in the center of Victoria! Check in was an ease as we booked Gold Rooms! We were given a brief tour of the new Gold lounge by reception which is newly renovated and it’s spectacular. Keeping with the ole world charm but updated with modern amenities, we spent a lot of time there. The design is remarkable especially the exposed steel girders encased in glass. We did a little research and learnt that a local artisan contractor Corey did the work. The whole hotel is beautifully decorated and designed. The rooms are comfortable and balance of old and new, nothing of the historical significance is lost!! The staff is always so helpful and afternoon tea a must!

What a lovely old hotel. Our room was comfortable, very clean and quiet, and made for a very enjoyable 2 nights. We stayed in a Gold level room which gave us access to the Gold Lounge for breakfast, afternoon snacks, comfortable lounge all day, and a separate check-in area. It was very much worth the little extra in cost. The location is right on the harbor and a short walk to everything we wanted to see. The staff were all helpful and friendly and we would definitely stay there again.

We have stayed at a number of Fairmont hotels across Canada and our stay at The Empress was the best yet. If you can, splurge and go for the Fairmont Gold option. We found the lounge overlooking the Inner Harbour to be an elegant home away from home. The service at the concierge desk and in the lounge area was impeccable. We felt so welcomed and cared for. Each afternoon we had a feast of beautiful appetizers and drinks. Breakfast in the morning buffet was gourmet as well. Best coffee ever.

This Fairmont takes precedence in the Fairmont Empire. Its the Crown. They say that the Chateau Whistler has the best Gold Floor of all Fairmont's but I can say that the Fairmont Empress now holds that title. Incredible staff and amenities.