HotelChatter

Arrival
Getting to the hotel in a cab, you navigate steep streets until you pull up to a barrier that allows access to the top of the Castle District. Given the fact that the hotel is combining elements from different centuries, there is quite a contrast depending on the angle.

Check-In
Reception is pretty much right behind the main entrance, with lobby seating on the side and a little further down to the left. While undeniably a hotel in a lovely setting, the first thought that hit me when I walked in was "dated" — which I couldn't shake for the length of my stay. It is not so much that anything is not well maintained — it is — but something about the carpets, the woodwork, the colour scheme in the hallways (a shade of grey with some purple and wood), the design of lamps, chairs, etc., felt just that: dated.

I had booked a standard room but received an upgrade to an Executive room courtesy of my HHonors card and was redirected from the main reception downstairs to the lounge on the 3rd floor for check-in. Once on the 3rd floor and seated at the desk in the main lounge area, check-in only took a few minutes.

Room Reaction
My room was also on the 3rd floor and a short walk through the lounge (past the business center with two computers with complimentary internet access) and down the hall. First impressions: a lot of space, and, again, slightly-dated feel. This did not apply to the bathroom, however; it was quite nice and massive, with separate walk-in shower and bathtub, vanity, and toilet. Amenities are by Crabtree & Evelyn. In all honesty, thinking of what to write about the room, I am coming up short — it was a really good size, the king-size bed was on the hard side, the decor did not blow me away, not much else to report.

Executive Lounge
The Executive lounge serves complimentary drinks and breakfast, as well as pre-dinner snacks. This did not include just small hors d'oeuvres, but quite an extensive selection of hot and cold options. Internet can be accessed here; there is also wireless internet avaiable in the room, the cost of which I am not sure.

Dining
I had room service delivered, which came within the promised time window. The pasta dish was fine, although not memorable. The complimentary breakfast in the lounge was good, and there is a wide variety of (non)alcoholic beverages offered. Fruit, coffee and tea are available — all in all, no complaints whatsoever there.

Bottom Line
The hotel is in a beautiful setting, and if you have a room facing east, you can have a spectacular view over the city. Even if you do not, you can easily walk around the hotel and admire the view outside. You are high up on a hill, so expect to cab it or climb up and down. Compared to the West End property, this hotel puts you in the heart of the Castle district, which is a nice, historic setting. On the other hand, you are more removed from the action. If you find a good rate and are not looking for the latest in design, then this is a safe bet, perhaps as a combination with a hotel down by the river such as the Sofitel to have two different flavours in one trip.