Wedgewood Hotel

Unlike many of Vancouver’s hotels, the Wedgewood is a privately owned boutique, decorated and still overseen by the daughters of its original founder, a Greek-born Vancouver businesswoman. And in contrast to the city’s modern business hotels, this place is all European-style pomp and old-world elegance, beginning with the antique furnishings, Persian rugs, and carved stone desk of the reception.

The location is absolutely central; the Wedgewood finds its home on Robson Square, in the heart of downtown, near enough to the waterfront as well as the city’s best shopping. Guest rooms overlook the city, the mountains, and in the best case Hornby Street and the Robson Square Gardens, all from private balconies. Expect antique furnishings, tapestry walls, and dark wood paneling, along with spacious marble baths, deep soaking tubs, and separate showers. The four penthouse suites have fireplaces and jetted tubs, and either large balconies or garden terraces.

Facilities include a spa and fitness center, decadent touches for such a small hotel, as well as a fine restaurant, Bacchus, serving European cuisine made from West Coast ingredients, as well as traditional high tea on weekends. The best of the public spaces, though, might be the piano lounge, decorated in a rich Venetian style, with Murano stained glass and a carved limestone fireplace.