The site where the Fairmont Empress Hotel is built was once the tip of the Inner Harbour.  It was filled in to provide the foundation for this National Historic Site of Canada.  We learned this and other fascinating history as we were taken on a tour through the many different sections of this expansive building.  Particularly breathtaking was the large stained glass dome above one of the ballrooms – a treasure that was found covered over during renovations many years ago.  As one of the oldest hotels in Victoria, there are many stories about architectural details – and even whole rooms – being lost and found again.

Curiosities aside, the Empress maintains a beautiful classic Victorian-era look throughout most of its interior.  And even if you’re not staying a night, there are many reasons to still stop by, such as the Bengal Lounge which is well known and celebrated in Victoria for its curry cuisine (and felt like we had stepped into India) - the shops, the day spa, and of course afternoon tea.

We had the privilege of experiencing afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Tea Lobby.  Not only do you get to enjoy a variety of different teas while surrounded by classical ambiance, but you also get a helping of strawberries with whipped-cream, followed by a sizeable tray of finger sandwiches (our favorite was the mango & curried chicken on dark rye), freshly baked raisin scones with Empress cream and strawberry jam, and a selection of desserts including Parisian macaroons, lemon curd meringue tarts, and devil’s chocolate and pistachio Battenberg.  The tray is enough to serve 4 people, but made a filling lunch for the two of us (and our host).

The hotel is also quite picturesque from the outside as well, with bushes and ivy growing up the sides of the building, turning bright red and orange during the fall months.  Pathways criss-cross the green space encircling the front of the hotel, leading to hidden gardens and even a bee farm!

It’s hard to miss the Fairmont Empress Hotel as you explore downtown Victoria, so don’t miss the opportunity to check it out, or stay a few nights!