The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in Ottawa, Canada

A castle next to the hill – Parliament Hill, that is – the Fairmont Château Laurier is the undisputed top dog when it comes to luxury hotels in Ottawa. It was built in 1912 in the French château style, reminiscent of castles in the Loire Valley, and guests are treated like royalty from the moment they arrive. The 426 rooms and 33 luxury suites have retained historic touches such as layers of crown molding, wainscoting and marble mantles. Furnishings include comfortable Queen Anne chairs, cloud-like Sealy mattresses and overstuffed chintz sofas. VIP? Upgrade to Fairmont Gold, which ushers guests through a private reception to elegant rooms, a private Gold Lounge and personalized concierge service.

A European sensibility informs Le Germain, where everyone on the staff, from the attendants and the front desk staff to the valet, is ready and waiting to make your stay outstanding. Decor in the rooms is a sophisticated mix of charcoal and birch, while a goose-down duvet and feather pillows will gently ease you to sleep. The prestige suite is best for families, and comes with an extra powder room, a stand-alone soaker tub and separate living and dining areas. Little touches – such as flexible checkout time – make this one of the top luxury hotels in Ottawa.

You’re the winner at this Vegas-style hotel and casino on the shore of Lake Leamy in Hull, just across the river from Ottawa. Pamper yourself with the presidential suite, complete with a baby grand piano, or choose a room on the executive floors, where you’ll find breakfast, canapés and beverages served in the private lounge. Walk through the expansive lobby – hung with Dale Chihuly glass chandeliers – to the tennis courts and the pedestrian and cycling paths that lead to the capital. Relax at the indoor or outdoor heated pool or enjoy a relaxing wrap, rejuvenating facial or soothing massage at the world-class spa.

Sheltered in the wooded hills near Gatineau Park in Quebec, Lofts du Village has created an industrial chic-styled cottage hideaway, with wood-paneled ceilings and sliding barn doors. Enter through the gift shop and choose from 12 lofts and nine studio apartments – the lofts have extras such as a separate powder room, a washer and dryer and a fully equipped kitchen. Modern black French doors lead to walking trails and the nearby Nordik Spa Nature. Take home a souvenir if you wish, as many items here, such as linens and artworks, are for sale.

A five-minute walk from this four-star hotel in Ottawa will take you to Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal and the shops and restaurants of ByWard Market. Enjoy the views of these destinations and more while snuggling into a signature Westin Heavenly Bed. The concierge will be happy to suggest local attractions such as the National Gallery of Canada or the Canadian Tire Centre – home to the Ottawa Senators hockey team.

The best place to celebrate a special occasion in Ottawa is the four-star luxury hotel Andaz ByWard Market. This light-filled, modern hotel features a presidential suite that comes complete with its own outdoor terrace and separate entrance. With a walk-in closet, a huge rainfall shower and a deep soaker tub, there’s plenty of room to make yourself at home here. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the restaurants and shops in the market or the lights of downtown.

Be a part of the family at the Canadian-owned Alt Hotel. Friendly, helpful staff can help you choose between a one-bedroom with a walk-in rainfall shower or a two-bedroom with two large beds, a large work area and a tub. The modern decor is a combination of black, white and saturated colors with carefully curated art and imported occasional furnishings. The hotel is within walking distance of the main attractions in Ottawa and several fine-dining restaurants.

Beautifully reimagined, the 1941 Lord Elgin has combined art deco and mid-century modern styles to create an elegant taupe-and-cream backdrop in the 355 rooms, while the classic bones of the hotel remain. The Churchill suite has a full kitchen, a walk-in closet, separate dining and living areas and an additional powder room. Page through your favorite novel on the chaise or find a comfortable chair by the wood-burning fireplace in the lobby. Energize with a trip to the sauna, whirlpool and lap pool. Many of the courteous staff here are eager to assist, as they have been for over 20 years – a true indication of a superior hotel.