Canadian hotels, design comes first

A sprawling country like Canada means there’s a fleet of accommodation options at every turn. But sometimes, it’s nice to treat yourself to something a little more special, a little more luxurious and just a little more boutique. When the urge takes over, these are the hotels to consider.

The Drake, Toronto

Industrial design plays off against midcentury accents at The Drake

Serendipity would have it that one of Toronto’s most successful music exports and one of their most stylish hotels share the same name. The Drake on thronging Queen Street West is a moody outpost perfect for night owls looking for their own 5am in Toronto or simply an impeccably designed space to sleep in. A mix of contemporary, industrial, midcentury and just a hint of art deco, the rooms have a distinct flavour to them; exposed brick walls play off against gold bedside pendants, while gorgeous teak furniture, canary-yellow chairs and dark leather armchairs combine for a sophisticated look. While you might be inclined to stay in your room, the hotel’s bar and restaurant offerings are arguably the highlight. Head down to the Corner Café for a scone that has conquered the hearts of many a guest or stop by the lounge later in the day for a classic steak frites. You’ll find a rooftop bar here for those warm summer nights and the Drake Underground for those looking to catch a gig and drink down a perfectly prepared cocktail.

Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Vancouver

Enjoy your long drink on the hotel's secret garden terrace

Historic, high-rise and high-end, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia has seen its fair share of stars pass through its art deco lobby. Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley, Louis Armstrong and Queen Elizabeth II have all made this their temporary home and it’s not hard to see why. Styled in ivory, chocolate and light blue, the rooms have a timeless elegance to them and an old world charm that feels far removed from the glittering skyline of downtown Vancouver. The escapism continues at Reflections, the hotel’s garden terrace restaurant, where you can hide away among lush foliage and soft lighting while tucking into duck prosciutto flatbread and smoked spicy chorizo. And if you feel the need to work up an appetite, the heated indoor saltwater pool is adjacent to the restaurant.

William Gray, Montréal

Concrete walls and charcoal fixtures make for a sophisticated scheme

Jetsetters, design lovers and heritage enthusiasts will find much to appeal at William Gray. Smack in the heart of Old Montreal, the hotel comprises of two 18-century stone buildings that have more recently been outfitted with a glass tower extension – though the hotel has long cast its own distinct spell over its clientele. Home to a subterranean spa, complete with original fireplace and stone cellars, it’s tempting to treat yourself to a luxurious soak before heading up to your room, which is likely to be an equally sumptuous experience. Here, charcoal-coloured industrial fixtures, concrete walls and dark woods combine for a clean monochrome scheme. And the best part is still to come; have a wander downstairs through Boutique OTH and grab yourself an espresso at the celebrated Café Olimpico before tucking into a seafood meal at the rooftop bar. Find yourself a spot and cast your eyes over the tangle of the old town alleyways illuminated and resplendent in the sunset.

Le Germain Charlevoix, Baie St Paul

The restaaurant promises a shiny and speactacular dining experience

Right in the heart of whale-watching country, Le Germain Charlevoix lets you enjoy this natural spectacle in spectacular surroundings. Built on the site of a former farm owned by a religious congregation, the historic farm buildings have been refitted in a style that’s in keeping with their past, while remaining suitably contemporary. Raw wood elements run through all the rooms – The Superior has a statement four poster bed and wood-panelled bathroom – while The Studio room has barn doors that double as feature walls. It’s a space for lovers of modern, rustic style that continues into the Le Bercail Restaurant where you can sip on a drink by the roaring fire or at the Spa Nordique Le Germain, where you’ll find a Finnish sauna, a eucalyptus steam bath, outdoor pools and even a snow fountain.

Auberge du Vieux-Port, Montréal

Gaze out over Old Montreal from the hotel's compact and charming terrace

A former warehouse turned boutique hotel, Auberge du Vieux Port is an atmospheric and romantic affair. Exposed beams, brick walls and wrought-iron beds make for warm, intimate environs, while the room views over the glittering Saint Lawrence River are a lovely bonus. Renowned for its attentive service and impeccable dining options, opt for an alfresco meal for breakfast or brunch at Taverne Gaspar and take in the glorious riverside setting and honey-coloured facade of the hotel. If you’re looking for a bird’s-eye view, the hotel also has a roof terrace primed for elegant soirées that chiefly involve masterful cocktails and sweeping panoramas over hushed Old Montreal.