Escape the Fall Chill: 3 Unique Hotels for Your Next Victoria Getaway

A kaleidoscope of autumn colors. A collection of historic, haunted buildings that practically scream Halloween. Rolling, pastoral farmlands ripe with the bounty of the season. When it comes to fall adventures, Victoria has no shortage of them. Yet sometimes, the thing that transforms a good trip from an amazing trip comes down to one simple thing: the hotel. Whether you are looking for a luxurious escape or haunted lodging, here are our picks for where to rest your head and recharge after a day of exploring.

Inn at Laurel Point

This fall, the majestic Inn at Laurel Point has a few surprises for you when you check in, you trick or you treat. Fair warning, if you choose “trick,” take a deep breath and be prepared to get a little damp. It’s apple bobbing time! However, your energy will be well-spent if you are successful. You will receive a complimentary upgrade or one night of free parking.

If your hard work causes you to work up a thirst, stop by the award-winning AURA waterfront restaurant to sip on the “bleeding heart martini.” This unique cocktail seamlessly blends Philips STUMP Coastal Forest Gin, Odd Society Vermouth and a pierced, pickled baby beet for a drink with an earthy, Northwest flair.

The Inn at Laurel Point was also inspired by the season to decorate two of their suites for the Halloween. The “Birds” suite as slightly spooky vibe, and feels as though you have just walked on to the set of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic 1963 film. Inside you’ll find a murder of crows (don’t worry, they are the artificial variety), a bottle of Ravenswood Cabernet Sauvignon and a dark surprise (in the form of chocolates and cookies) from pastry chef Kimberly Vy.

For a sweeter take on the holiday, the hotel also created the “Treat Suite.” The luxurious, candy filled studio suite brims with goodies including ice-cold bottles of Voo Doo Doughnut Beer and a confectionery surprise.

Oak Bay Beach Hotel

The majestic, boutique Oak Bay Hotel has their own share of scares this Halloween. Pay a visit to this elegant hotel inspired by classic Manor-house architecture and catch their captivating, light-hearted Murder Mystery Musical Dinner Theatre. The show will keep you on your toes and guessing “who done it” until the very last second.

Created by the award-winning writer and composer Obediya Jones-Darell, this production is the only one of its kind in the city. Afterward, venture out to the Boathouse Spa for scenic ocean vistas and cure any lingering chills with a soak in the property’s steaming hot mineral pools.

The Fairmont Empress

Approaching the entrance of the stately Fairmont Empress, it’s hard not to be impressed by the magnificent stone and brick building as it holds court over Victoria’s Inner Harbour. In fact, you could say that the city has grown up around the hotel.

If the walls of the famed property could talk, they would certainly have their fair share of stories to tell. The Empress has played host to an array of celebrities (including the likes of Rita Hayworth, John Wayne, Bob Hope and Harrison Ford) and has even hosted King George VI and Queen Elizabeth for afternoon tea.

The recent renovations to the property have begun a new era in the iconic building’s history, magically transforming the look and feel of the space to create a bright, elegant atmosphere that retains the original architecture of the building. The hotel’s guest rooms have also received an update, wander upstairs to discover 235 lavish rooms that meld the hotel’s history and the West Coast’s natural beauty.

After settling into your room, come back downstairs for cocktails and dinner. Grab a seat at the bold, Q Bar and sip an award-wining vintage from the extensive wine list or a creatively curated cocktail (we recommend the North West Collins – produced with BC and an actual fir shrub, it is as local as it gets and absolutely delicious). Relax with your friends in this popular social hub and get seduced by the music that plays seven nights a week.

Be sure to also check out the centerpiece of the re-imagined Empress – the new Q at the Empress. The bold sibling of the Q Bar, the restaurant certainly is fit for royalty. After all, the name is “Q” is a nod to Queen Victoria and represents the Queen and country. Check in at the jewel-like host stand and cozy up in the leather banquette for fresh farm- and boat-to-table dishes such a brown butter based ling cod or tender New York strip steak.

Whether your home base for the weekend puts you within one floor of some Victoria’s best cocktails or graces you with stunning harbor views, the hotel’s beautiful surroundings, delicious food and cozy rooms will make you feel like royalty. By the end of your stay, you’ll be relaxed, pampered and rejuvenated, and ready for your next adventure.