1. Hotel Le St-James
This grand dame of Montreal’s hospitality industry sits in the Old City, just a few blocks southwest of Notre-Dame Basilica. Sprawling out behind the stone façade of the former 19th-century Merchants’ Bank building, the hotel’s 60 guest rooms and suites are outfitted with antique furnishings as well as contemporary conveniences, like LCD TVs and high-speed internet access. Recent guests raved about their stay at the Hotel Le St-James, praising everything from the elegant ambiance to the customer service to the variety of treatments offered at Le Spa. XO Le Restaurant also receives glowing reviews for its gourmet cuisine, lauded by visitors and locals alike. However, previous guests warn that the Hotel Le St-James experience doesn’t come cheap. Luckily, you can earn free nights and member perks if you’re part of the Leaders Club program.
2. Abigail’s Hotel
Occupying a romantic 1930s Tudor mansion, Abigail’s Hotel is an intimate, 23-room property ideal for couples (no children younger than 13 are allowed). Reflecting the charm that pervades Victoria, rooms are appointed with seasonal flowers, fresh cookies, iPod docking stations, free Wi-Fi access, and, in the premiere Sapphire rooms, a wood-burning fireplace and antique chandeliers. While Abigail’s doesn’t have its own on-site restaurant, recent visitors say the complimentary three-course breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres make up for the absence of midday and evening meal service. But if you’re hankering for something more substantial, downtown Victoria’s restaurants and quaint shops sit just a mile northwest of the hotel. Recent guests say a leisurely stroll through Victoria’s Inner Harbour makes for a relaxing evening. Though they rave about the hotel’s location and charming atmosphere, previous guests say the staff’s attention to detail shines above all else.