En Suite
To some travelers, the hotel is critical to the experience. We report on the newest, most noteworthy hotels; old classics we still love; or someplace fun and funky that reflects a special mood. Anything goes: prices range from modest to lavish.
While listening to the sexy, trancey c.d. compilation, from Dark to Light, the Musical Journey of Klaus K, it all slowly trickled back through my mind - the sights, sounds and special moments the Klaus K Hotel provided in my short stay in Helsinki, Finland. I felt like a local each time I walked past the marquee, through the glass doors and heard the familiar tram whizzing by behind me. Thoroughly individual, the hotel is a kaleidoscope of original ideas from the dizzying decoration to the carefully laid out Best of Finland breakfast buffet. Add to this a prime location in the heart of Helsinki’s Design District and you have something unique by Finnish standards. As the first Design Hotel in Finland and a totally new category of hotel in Helsinki, the Klaus K brought a new level of luxury and design to the capital city.
The 19th century brick exterior of the former German girl’s school has an old world feel and the entrance is flanked by two trendy restaurants where in summer the neighborhood hangs over endless coffees. While the unassuming façade won’t turn heads, don’t judge a book by its cover. Illusive charm greets travel-weary eyes once past the threshold as the Klaus K’s completely made-over interior spaces are whimsically inspired by the contrasts of Finland’s national Kalevala epic. What does this mean? It means that Finnish folklore is woven into every detail of the design aesthetic embracing the hotel and the owners’ mantra of “style and story” with a soul is evident everywhere.
Climbing a flight of stairs to reception, a sense of Nordic modernism transpires as you approach a galactic oval eggshell front desk, with a hanging installation of cream colored thorn thickets circling above it. The egg and nest reference alludes to the Kalevala’s genesis story, where the world and the universe were created from seven eggs. The hotel plays with the genesis spirit with actual text printed on lobby walls and woven into the hallway carpet on every floor. Regular art installations underscore the hotel’s artistic intentions, not to mention hosting a constant stream of design and arts-related events as well as a fashion brunch in restaurant Il Matar.
The hotel’s 137 cutting edge rooms and suites are impeccably designed with a dramatic flair, expressing emotional themes of mysticism, passion, desire and envy, named after the four themes resonating in the Kalevala. Contrasting colors and textures in the rooms reflect the motif of dualities, as if the vivid red pillows on stark white sheets in the Pleasure themed rooms symbolize the Kalevala’s idea of innocence and lust. Though the decoration refers to an archaic epic, the contemporary furnishings and amenities are from this century, designed and presented in daring and unconventional ways.
The rest of the hotel is a modern mixture of history and refinery. The Helsinki Day Spa on the lower level offers indulgence with holistic body treatments or a Finnish sauna. But if you prefer business to pleasure, there’s a fin-de-siècle ballroom that holds up to 120 people as well as a smaller meeting room. In the lobby restaurant Il Matar, besides serving the Best of Finland® Breakfast buffet, consisting of organic and local ingredients, the Finnish restaurant also serves up some Kalevala references in the form of a large blue pike mosaic that’s encased in a glass table. What the Italian restaurant Toscanini may lack in Kalevala references, it makes up in rustic Tuscany cooking in a cozy, country style atmosphere. Or just ditch the dining experience altogether and head straight for cocktails at Klaus K’s Ahjo Bar & Club. Good music and a young cool crowd are guaranteed on weekend nights.
As an official sponsor of Helsinki World Design Capital 2012, Klaus K stands for creativity, uniqueness and experiences. Its location in the nexus of the Design District means it’s the perfect spot to settle in and catch the action. Perhaps by the end of 2012 it will have become as legendary as the epic it draws inspiration from.
Hotel Klaus K
Bulevardi 2-4
Helsinki, Finland
358 (0)20 770 4700
The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa
Photos by Steve Collins
From the minute you pull up to The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa and are greeted by the impeccably uniformed doorman, you know you are in the lap of luxury. The pampering at this Four Star, Four Diamond property starts at the door and continues throughout the stay.
Dating from 1892, the lobby of the Italian Renaissance building is richly paneled and features an eight-story atrium with a leaded glass ceiling. Traditional afternoon tea is served in the lobby from noon to 4pm daily and for some it is a tradition. Friends meet friends and mothers sit with daughters, many having come here for generations. They sip, nibble on finger sandwiches and pastries and devour scones with Devonshire cream. If you really want to get into the spirit, don a hat and gloves. Should you prefer honey in your tea it will have originated right from the hotel’s roof. The Bee Royalty Program, conceived to produce the honey for the service, was so successful it has expanded. They now have three hives with about 250,000 bees and use the honey in cocktails, in spa treatments and products and are collaborating with Denver’s Wyncoop Brewing Company to produce Honey Saison, a limited-edition beer.
Survey the retro lobby and admire the luxe Art Moderne fixtures and influences combined with Victorian and Italianate ones. The murals adjacent and opposite the elevator are WPA projects painted in 1937. Look for famous golfer Babe Didrikson Zaharias deplaning and Howard Hughes on the tarmac. The hotel’s history is rich. If you stay on a Saturday or Wednesday, there’s a free guided tour of the history of the hotel at 3pm. Make reservations in advance, the tours are popular.
The Brown Palace has welcomed royalty, presidents, movie stars and assorted luminaries through its revolving doors. Splurge and book a room or suite At the Top of The Brown, the name given to the 8th and 9th floors, originally part of the ballroom and turned into luxury apartments in 1937. A selling point for these lavish residences was the hotel service that came with them. Except for a few of the suites, the décor on these floors is decidedly Art Deco in both the hallways and guest rooms.
The Beatles stayed here on their first U.S. tour in 1964, insisting on it after the hotel balked. It was a simple negotiation – they wouldn’t play Denver if they couldn’t stay at The Brown. One of the suites they occupied has recently been refurbished as a shrine to the Fab Four. All the songs they recorded are on a juke box in the room and photos of the group, some never seen publicly, adorn the walls. Another departure from standard décor can be found in the opulent Adirondack lodge themed Teddy Roosevelt Suite.
Denver is a big cattle and cowboy town. Every year, during the annual National Western Stock Show, dubbed the “Super Bowl of Cattle Shows,” the hotel exhibits the Grand Champion Steer penned in the lobby for a few hours. In the past few years, the Reserve Champion Steer has shared the spotlight. Luxury hotel meets cattle; it’s pure Denver. While it sounds like a legend, in 1958 television cowboy, Monty Montana, rode his horse up the hotel’s grand staircase crashing a meeting of the Rodeo Cowboys Association. That’s the stuff legends are made of.
,-photo-Steve-Collins-.jpg)
Because of the hotel’s unique triangular shape, the sizes and shapes of the 241 guest accommodations vary. In addition to the Top of the Brown and the suites, the hotel offers Classic and Signature rooms with choice of bed type and Victorian inspired décor. Nightly turn down service is provided, of course.
Denver has a relatively short but interesting history. If you want to feel a part of it, The Brown Palace is the perfect choice for your Mile High City stay. After a busy day, unwind with a cocktail in the wood-paneled Ship’s Tavern, opened in 1934. The hand-made antique miniature sailing ships and art decorating the room were part of a collection of the hotel’s first owners, C.K. and Edna Boettcher. The savvy Mrs. B wanted the items out of her stately home and suggested they be displayed in the themed bar. Cigar aficionados will love the club ambience at the Churchill Bar where a custom humidor offers a selection of over 60 cigars.
*Don’t care to drive around the bustling downtown? There is complimentary car service within a five mile radius offered on a first come, first served basis, via a Mercedes Benz fleet. Check with the hotel for days and hours of service.
The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa
321 17th Street
Denver, Colorado
(303) 297-3111
www.brownpalace.com
The Osprey, A RockResort
Beaver Creek Resort is the perfect place for discerning travelers headed to the Colorado Rockies. The gated, luxury resort community offers a plethora of amenities for mountain getaways. Beaver Creek’s appeal is broad. The resort prides itself on its safe, family-friendly environment and variety of activities and programs for the younger set. Perhaps you’re looking for a place for a romantic weekend, a business-related event, a wedding or a relaxing mountain escape. Beaver Creek offers all that and more all seasons of the year. It’s as beautiful in spring, summer and fall as it is in winter.
There’s a wide range of lodging options ranging from large luxury hotels to home and condo rentals. If you crave the intimacy of a chic, contemporary boutique hotel matched with attentive service, The Osprey, a RockResort, the closest hotel to a ski lift in North America, is the perfect choice.
The 47 well-appointed guestrooms are spacious and welcoming. For the best views in the hotel, request a southwest room. Gas fireplaces in the Superior Rooms are faced with a beautiful contemporary stone tiling and add a welcome touch on a cold winter’s night. The larger deluxe rooms boast vaulted ceilings. If you desire suite-like accommodations, the hotel’s third-floor condo offers two to four bedrooms and a spacious great room with a granite and stainless steel gourmet kitchen.
For your sleeping pleasure, rooms have uber comfortable platform beds covered in luxurious 800 thread count Frette linens and down duvets. It’s the perfect combination for a gloriously restful sleep. Amenities include: flat-screen TVs, DVD players (there’s a free DVD library), MP3 players and those gas fireplaces. Granite baths feature either soaking tubs (most two-bedded rooms) or walk-in showers (most king bedded rooms). A few accommodations offer steam showers. The organic bath products are formulated especially for Rock Resorts and include an unscented soap, great for anyone who is allergy prone. If you want to relax and unwind après ski or any time, the concierge can arrange an in-room massage.
The Osprey Lounge is a congenial gathering place for guests after a long day exploring the great outdoors and serves breakfast, lunch and light dinner with small plates the specialty. The adjacent family-friendly “Social Room” feels like one’s living room and offers Wii, X-Box, board games, TV and DVD player. Parents can relax over drinks and tapas while their kids are safely occupied close-by.
Other amenities at The Osprey include a fitness center with steam room and sauna and an outdoor heated pool with heated deck. Guests can unwind in the hot tub or enjoy a drink from the poolside bar.
By the way, you don’t need a car here. Beaver Creek is designed to be totally self-contained. Should you go with a rental, you can arrive at the hotel, give your keys to the valet and not get behind the wheel again until you’re ready to depart. The hotel also provides shuttle service in a spacious, luxury SUV so again, so why not forgo the car? Fly into Denver or the nearby Eagle County Airport, take the shuttle or just hire a car for the trip from the airport.
For a luxurious Beaver Creek experience any time of year, The Osprey gets my vote. Sit back and relax while they pamper you.
The Osprey, A Rock Resort
10 Elk Track Lane Beaver Creek, CO 81620
(970) 754-7400
http://ospreyatbeavercreek.rockresorts.com
Hotel Mediterraneo
Let's start with the view. In the glass enclosed dining room and on the flowered terrace of La Terrazza, the Roof Garden on the top floor of the Hotel Mediterraneo, you're treated to a sweeping panorama of all of Rome. Not a city where skyscrapers are the norm, my guess is there are few spots to gaze longingly over the rooftops of the romantic destination. The highest building in the center of Rome, this hotel offers one of them and it's a prime spot to spend a few minutes with that special someone. Go at sunset when the city's monuments are illuminated and the town begins to flex its' gorgeously antique muscles. Snag one of the tables edging the open air garden and share a prosecco. You're in Rome after all and this hotel will take care of you like Mama does.
And that is the point about the Mediterraneo. It's a place that coddles its guests and gives them the sense that this is their home away from home. From the huge marble baths with glass shelved vanity tables, double sinks, separate walk-in shower enclosures and porcelain tubs to the generous tea tray with Italian candies and biscuits, the Mediterraneo knows a thing or two about hospitality.
Located within walking distance of the most important archaeological sites such as the Coliseum and the Forum, this flagship property in the small, family-owned Bettoja Hotels chain is a jewel in the group's tiara. One of the most notable, handsome and well preserved examples of the Italian Art Deco style in Rome it has an impressive history. Built between 1938 and 1942-44 by architect Mario Loreti, the lobby as well as all the public spaces, ooze grandeur and sophistication. I was reminded of Greta Garbo and John Barrymore in Grand Hotel as I passed through the elegant revolving lobby door and into the foyer. Practically a sea of glistening marble furnished with oversized mohair club chairs and sofas, many of the walls are decorated with intricately detailed mosaics peeking behind velvet drapes and flanked by busts of the emperors. You half expect Fred and Ginger to fox trot out of one of the elevators whose walnut doors are carved and inlaid with Deco scenes straight off an MGM set. And the Oscar for Best Art Direction goes to ... the Hotel Mediterraneo!
But it doesn't stop there. The elegant breakfast room is inspired by the sea, decorated with tritons and mermaids carved in oak and lanterns reminiscent of ancient galleons. Do have a champagne cocktail in the eye-popping bar where an alabaster counter with Venini crystal and more inlaid panels will have you running for your top hat. But don't dare put it on because you'll want to tip it in the direction of the Bettoja family, whose choices for preserving the striking originality of this property merit an award. On the 10th floor are 10 sunlit and luxuriously furnished suites with Jacuzzi's and private terraces. Naturally, grab one of those.
After just a short stay in the city it had begun to feel a little bit like the hotel was home. Could I live here, I thought, like Eloise did at the Plaza Hotel in New York City? Absolutely!
Hotel Mediterraneo
Via Cavour, 15
Rome, Italy 00184
39 06 488-4051
www.bettojahotels.it
Hotel Chez Swann
Welcome to the Fun House
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sleep in an artist's studio, surrounded by boundless creativity? Welcome to Hotel Chez Swann, Montréal's daring hotel concept with a spark of spontaneity. Let's start with the name which calls to mind a graceful and serene creature, a great analogy for the property. Swann is far from the ugly duckling Tudor House from 1929, its' former life tossed aside and a new spirit reborn on rue Drummond in the heart of Montréal's bustling downtown. It's a place that breaks the rules and that makes for a good time.
First, how about the entrance? You can blink and miss the front doors but once through them a mirrored catwalk, skylit by day and bathed in purple neon at night, is perfect for making an exit. How about the lobby? An unusual snakelike bench invites you to sit and get to know the other guests, but be selective as there are just 23 rooms. Now, go to reception. A tiny suspended front desk of rough hewn wood seems to be floating in mid-air, anchored only by the 2 wood pillars at its sides. It's tactile and that's an important sense to cultivate here in the touchy, feely environment orchestrated by Mary Moegenburg. Her accent lighting decorating the space is all one of a kind and her design throughout the hotel is subtly sensuous. Your eyes will thrill to the play of light, color, texture and materials. The bohemian and edgy vision I learned was to provide an environment that would allow guests to connect socially. It's a bit like being in a lab experiment, one where you're happy to be the litmus test. Don't miss the abstract film playing on the far wall behind you before heading upstairs. It may be symbolic.
The elevator glides to a white hallway, the walls up lit by brilliant white beams and a giant sculptural tree trunk guarding the way to your room. The language of Swann is one that constantly transcends boundaries and soon you'll be expanding yours. You find your room and enter a pure white environment with polished jet black floors, furniture and a lone ebony armoire. The anchor is a quirky sitting area with a big black baroque chair lit by a tripod floor lamp dressed with a gauzy skirt shade. Crank up some sounds from the armoire, add the TV. for visual and sink your feet into the 60's era green shag rug. You're starting to channel your inner bohemian and feeling good about it. The whole scene is enough to make you giddy and when you part the gauzy, floating white drapes you notice the lobby below is abuzz. Chez Swann has made a name for its art installations dramatically featured in unexpected ways and tonight is one of their infamous vernisages. Is that a knock on the door? Ahhh, your martini is here ... party mode!
It's time for a night on the town so start with a shower, Swann style. You won't want to hurry after a glance at the sexy, green bath. The spacious room is furnished with a huge, black lacquer vanity and hung with a large oval mirror. Playful black curlicues stencilled on the single white wall add a whimsical flourish, again, the Swann aesthetic. An enormous black tiled spa shower big enough for 4 people and equipped with 2 full body showers beckons you. Pick up your curvy slice of strawberry soap and prepare for a full on water confrontation. Once inside you just may not want to come out. But don't worry, you won't get bored. You can peek through a glass wall to your room and watch some TV. while you steam away.
Once out of that shower you'll be ready to let down your hair and socialize, so grab your D&G duds and head downstairs. The vibe at Hotel Chez Swann challenges the expected and with Crescent Street practically around the corner, who knows where the night will take you.
Hotel Chez Swann
1444 rue Drummond
Montréal, Québec
514-842-7070
www.hotelchezswann.com
Having been to Québec City a few times, I really didn't know what to expect of the recently opened Hotel Pur. I'd popped my head into the lobby on a previous trip when I was exploring the hotel's neighborhood of Saint-Roch and it looked futuristic.
This former Holiday Inn has been totally revamped and is now the largest contemporary hotel in the city. It's carved a niche for itself among the cookie-cutter chains, the smaller B & B's, and the grander historic properties. Walking into the brightly colored all white reception area immediately makes you feel like you on a sci-fi film set. The efficient check-in process is completed in a matter of minutes and you're on your way to your room.
When the elevator door opens to your floor, you instantly realize you're not in Kansas anymore. The hallway is completely the opposite of the lobby, a dimly lit visual expanse of black. Statement made ... clean slate. Inside your room it's back to a cool as a cucumber vibe with mirrors, abstract prints, splashes of bright orange and a gun metal grey tiled bath with Aveda amenities. In a daring feng shui move, the cozy and comfortable all white bed faces a floor to ceiling window with a panoramic view of the city. Add a cushy divan in front of that window and the effect is one of sitting on a cloud. Each of the 242 spacious rooms also includes complimentary Wi-Fi, a tidy work station with fully stocked mini-bar, an MP3 compatible clock radio and oversized flat screen television.
The usually standard coffee maker, however, is auspiciously missing. I later discover a high tech Italian machine is available 24 hours in the lobby for guest usage, with complimentary cappuccino, mocha, latte and brewed java, as well as a full selection of teas. The property also boasts Québec's largest indoor pool with great views of the surrounding skyline. An adjacent co-ed sauna facility as well as a cardio/weight center is perfect for your down time.
The hotel is located in the up and coming Saint Roch area of lower Québec City, which has recently experienced a revival of sorts and is now home to numerous good restaurants, hip lounges, and designer boutiques. Also nearby are two local brew pubs crafting unique infusions, and a couple of late night spots for dancing and live music. The neighborhood is ideal for holiday shopping with a festive atmosphere, illuminated street lights, decorative window displays and the tallest Christmas tree in the city. Hotel Pur is convenient situated close to the main train station for anyone arriving by Via Rail or Amtrak and across the street from the main bus terminal. A stay here is pur-fection!
*Of note – reception has a selection of personal amenities for guests should you forget the essentials. While in the lobby, should you want something to go along with a java jolt, look for the afternoon table of cookies and chocolates. Also, be sure to catch the post-it note on your closet door for a complimentary drink at the bar.
*Tip - Guests may just want to stay put and check out the fabulous Table Restaurant on the premises (see adjacent story). Open from early morning until early evening, this spacious venue also functions as a lounge with occasional DJ nights ramping up the atmospheric vibes.
*Promotions – the hotel is currently running a couple of promotions, such as book two nights and get the third for free, and others offering breakfast and champagne in the room. The VIP Nightlife package provides a VIP pass for two to Maurice club with two complimentary drinks, roundtrip transportation, and full American breakfast.
Hotel Pur
395, rue de la Couronne
Québec City, Québec
418-647-2458
www.hotelpur.com
The Original Winter Universe
Spending the night in a structure made of ice in the middle of a Québec winter is not for the faint of heart. But hotel lovers and thrill seekers alike who crave the unusual happily bundle up and brace themselves for the -13°F to 41°F temps in order to bed down at the yearly architectural phenomenon. Strategically located next winter relatively close to enchanting Québec City, the Hôtel de Glace or the Ice Hotel as it is casually known, will once again be an ephemeral work of art that dazzles the eye and earns its place as one of the most famous images of the Canadian winter.
January 6th through March 25th, 2012, will mark the 11th year of the iconic temporary lodging, one of the few of its kind in the world. Each year brings an entirely new look and this December when the temperature drops below zero, Artistic Director Serge Péloquin will lead a creative team of 50 in a six week design and production effort. The goal? To make sure the upcoming season tops the last. And although it's definitely a tourist attraction with thousands of visitors passing through to gawk at this one-of-a-kind winter wonderland, the Ice Hotel is no gimmick. Since its inception in 2001, the hotel's talented designers have made it an annual must-see, must-do affair.
It takes five weeks, 500 tons of ice, and 15,000 tons of churned and processed snow blown into metal molds to craft the 36 rooms and suites. So, why doesn't it melt? Besides the crazy-cold temperatures outside, the ice insulates the thick walls of the inside space, keeping it warmer than outdoors, but not enough to melt the intricately stacked blocks holding it together. The gist of it is ... the place won't melt while you're sleeping, you can be sure of that.
And while you may imagine a cramped, igloo-like structure, the ceilings are actually 19-feet high, walls are hung with art and furniture is fantastically carved out of ice blocks. The magical décor could put many a design hotel to shame. The entry and lobby contain a themed sculpture exhibit that features intricately designed works, from tigers with fangs gleaming in the light to serene angels sporting delicate wings. But just when you think it's all untouchable artistry, a fun Grand Ice Slide appears, tempting kids (big and small alike) to take a turn.
The on-site chapel has hosted many a winter wedding during the short but sweet season, especially couples choosing to buck the June nuptial trend. There's always a party, wedding reception or special event and it's held at the Ice Café and Bar, naturally, where the specialty is a Canadian maple syrup infused whisky cocktail served in—what else?—a shot glass made of ice. At night the scene makes for an out-of-this-world club experience. Alcoves are carved into the walls, "seats" are lined with reindeer pelts to keep bottoms warm, and crystal clear tables hold cocktails. With pumping music and hippy, trippy lights giving all the ice even more melodrama, the setting is surreal with everyone covered head to toe in their North Face finest.
Once the day trippers on guided tours have cleared out and happy hour has finished around 8 pm, guests overnighting are encouraged to visit the outdoor Nordic Area's hot tub and sauna to warm and dry their body before turning in. Each of the themed rooms (some have their own log fireplaces and hot tubs!) have a sculpted ice bed with a mattress topper and fur blankets, so you're not exactly sleeping on a block of frozen water. The hotel's preparation guide recommends donning cold-temp appropriate clothing so you'll be comfortable in the 27°F quarters. But once you slip inside the Arctic sleeping bag provided, the cold will ease and it'll be sweet dreams. In fact, many report feeling overheated in their sleeping bags and rooms. I guess that might mean that staying in the Ice Hotel could make for one sultry night. Pretty cool, eh?
Overnight stay from $219 per person, including a welcome cocktail, the Nordic equipment for the night, access to the spas and sauna and breakfast.
Hotel de Glace
9530, rue de la Faune
Québec, QC
418-623-2888
www.hoteldeglace-canada.com
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
Le Grand Lodge & Chez Borivage
*With contributions by Sallie Wolcott
If you're looking for adventure, take a drive to Mont Tremblant (the trembling mountain), and queue up for some of the most pow(d)erful slopes in the world. It's less than two hours by car from Montreal and you can't beat the scenery. With three snow parks, 95 trails and an incomparable ski experience – cross country, dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and sledding - it's a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you're a skier, boarder, or an avid appreciator of culture, food, travel, and winter fun, the Squire says, "If the mountain can't come to you, make your way to the mountain."
Picturesquely situated on the peaceful shores of Lake Ouimet at the foot of the Laurentian Mountains is Le Grand Lodge, a Scandinavian style log palace. This massive, grandiose hotel can serve as the perfect base for your escape with nature. Minutes away from endless activities you'll find yourself immersed in history and head to toe pampering. The breathtaking landscape, verdant in summer and glistening in the snow offers the perfect blend for all seasons. Le Grand Lodge is not only ideal for hiking and skiing in fall and winter but also for lazing lakeside or canoeing in Lake Ouimet's crystal clear water in summer.
From the moment you enter the Lodge, its hand-cut stone flooring and soaring ceilings welcome you like a pair of familiar open arms. The hotel radiates rustic warmth and its traditional vibe will have you begging for a longer stay. The four star resort features lake and mountain view suites with fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, two full bathrooms, and balconies. A full service spa, indoor pool, and Jacuzzi are on premise and waiting for you.
Le Grand Lodge has a feather in its cap with its award-winning restaurant Chez Borivage (silver prize, regional level) and chef (gold prize, national level) that should become your priority. Chef David Oullet is a talented culinary artist who can turn any dish—from the simple (the most elegant Caesar salad the Squire has ever tasted) to the sophisticated (a rack of lamb with foie gras cappuccino sauce)—into an extravagant part of a three or four course unforgettable meal.
The elegant dining room, decorated with a magnificent cathedral ceiling, offers an imposing nine meter fireplace and a breathtaking view of the lake. Eat hearty before hitting the slopes. Breakfast at Chez Borivage is a full buffet, complete with an omelet station, waffle bar and an assortment of fresh baked breads— but after a morning of shushing you'll need some gratification and with the sun sitting high over the lake, Chez B is your spot. Lunch and dinner are something to write home about. A three-course lunch or four-course dinner is an unforgettable experience and can be paired with a selection of the world's best wines.
The Squire was especially impressed by the medley of asparagus and Quebec yellow beets, served with warm goat cheese, bell peppers, and coriander pesto. Not only was this second course impeccably prepared, but each ingredient tasted as though it had been freshly picked just hours before. Following that was a moist pork tenderloin with Grand Marnier and oka cheese fondant, the meat and cheese melting slowly in the mouth.
With a casual and relaxed atmosphere and dishes this incredible you'll be tempted to try several courses on David's menu— the trick is to work in the outdoor activities around your feasts. Don't miss the homemade foie gras terrine served with a xéres infused cranberry and onion confit or the salmon tartar with avocado, black sesame and tobiko. Also, be sure to try the grilled sirloin tip with a five pepper and caramelized apple sauce, and the medley of gambas served with a touch of madras curry and maple syrup.
A word to the wise - LEAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT! You don't want to leave Chez Borivage without a taste of David's crème brûlée with vanilla from Madagascar and goat cheese, or the chocolate and Bailey's trilogy.
If you've been looking for a hotel that marries warm and friendly hospitality with mind-altering dining in Québec's great outdoors, Le Grand Lodge is it. And with all the activities you can eat guilt free! There's a reason Chez Borivage has won so many awards ... discover it for yourself.
Le Grand Lodge & Chez Borivage
2396 rue Labelle
Mont-Tremblant, Québec
800-567-6763
www.legrandlodge.com
W Hotel San Francisco: A World of Wow
It helps to check in to the W San Francisco in broad daylight. Are you wondering Why? The out of the box hotel group's "Whatever/Whenever" mantra piques your curiosity and in keeping with the lifestyle brand's innovative approach to lodging, you'll be Wowed by the staggering array of details. Arrive in San Francisco at night however, and you can easily miss the place as a result of the discreet signage and setting. The hotel appears to have been repurposed from a run of the mill office building that cropped up in the city post 1970's and has now morphed into its present state as the ultimate urban oasis in the SoMa (south of Market) neighborhood, SoHo by the Bay, naturally. By daylight a giant woven metal sculpture of a reclining homo sapiens posed on a low hanging landing off the facade signals the all important design imprimatur of the brand. Who knows, perhaps our metal man spends his idle hours celebrating with the three gleeful members of Keith Haring's colorful 1989 Dancing Figures which anchors the northeast corner of the Moscone Center across the street. They're having fun and so will you, here in this big playground of a city, holed up at the W, the hub for fun and frolicing.
Enter past the dramatic octagonal, three-story entry and glowing fire in the Living Room, the W's signature lobby lounge, where a bevy of SF's fashionistas have seemingly pitched their tents for the night, it being the perfect gathering spot for cocktails. What with the W's signature lounge tracks and the scene who could blame them? Having braved those San Fran gusts that whip through the city before dusk, even a diehard naturalist would snag a place by that fire. Here the W San Fran emanates the mystery of its locale, where the thick fog can roll over the city grid late day, blurring the contours of its signature hills and neighbourhoods and making you reach for a sweater or hoodie. Catch some warmth here on a comfy couch or chair and digest the mystery of San Francisco's peculiar DNA.
As you head for your accommodations just remember, it's all about the experience, and at the W San Francisco you may not want to leave your room. You're greeted by your own personal illuminated Buddha sitting on a pedestal in the Kelly green recesses of the built-in wall unit which houses a 32 inch flat screen plasma TV and the W's famous Munchie Box. He reminds you that "the greatest goodness is a peaceful mind." Hmmm, perhaps you should order another mojito from the Upstairs Bar & Lounge and hole up for a little R & R on your turquoise corner banquette in the cozy window nook with panoramic views. Playful cutout mirrors on the ceiling let you catch all the reflections of the downtown skyline and while you relax you can play a game of W-style Chinese checkers, one of the many whimsical Far Eastern influences that define the multi-cultural space. W San Francisco's fresh urban twist on contemporary style is intentionally mixed with Asian details and whimsical touches such as a Japanese collage over the workspace to a framed shadow box of origami butterflies made from old San Francisco trolley tickets on a wall. These establish a pride of place in a way symbolizing the hybrid of an iconic American city and its marriage with Asian culture. Soon you'll be leaving your heart see in San Francisco, perhaps.
When you decide to join civilization downstairs, rest assured you'll be groomed to perfection thanks to the hotel's fabulous premium Bliss lemon & sage body treats. Nothing compares to their Foaming Face Wash for enlivening that tired visage of yours and the Body Butter will practically have you sniffing yourself. The hotel's housekeeping staff makes a point of super stocking everything in the oversized bathrooms so go ahead and indulge.
For a night on the town you're in a great spot. Centrally located and minutes from Union Square by foot, you can easily hoof it to Market Street and hop the historic F Market trolley that'll drop you closer to action than Blanche Du Bois ever got. The Castro village will be waiting at your feet at the western end of the line and you can familiarize yourself with some of SF's friendly citizens there pretty quickly. When you've tired of the action and are pondering those Tony Bennett lyrics again, hop back on the car and head in the opposite direction to Fisherman's Wharf at the eastern junction. Grab some cracked crab or peeled shrimp with aioli sauce while you stroll the famous promenade that looks out on Alcatraz. What a comforting thought that your king bed with signature pillow top and goose down covers is ready and waiting for you close-by at the W, a world away from those tiny cots in the infamous prison. Close your plantation shutters and be lulled to sleep with the soft Waterworks 350-thread count linens, the W's Sweet Dreams Pillow Menu and the convenient I-Pod docking station bedside. Ah, the W's thought of everything for you and tomorrow it's just going to keep up again!
• W San Francisco is committed to sustainable practices and recently received Silver LEED certification, becoming only the 7th hotel in the U.S. to receive the recognition for an existing building.
• The hotel recently unveiled plans for new restaurant TRACE on premises, opening this summer and reflecting a "localist" lifestyle experience.
• Pet owners take note – the W San Francisco is pet friendly.
W San Francisco
181 Third Street
San Francisco, Ca. 94103
415-777-5300
www.wsanfrancisco.com
www.sfmta.com/cms/mfleet/histcars.php
