The Fairmont Empress
Victoria Hotel

Standing Majestically Over Victoria Harbor

The Fairmont Empress showcases the spirit and energy of Vancouver Island in grand style. Lovingly restored to her turn-of-the-century beauty, The Empress captures the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era, while her facilities and services meet the needs of today's traveler. Whether it's 18-holes of golf in a pristine setting or a soothing aromatic massage, this luxury chateau-style resort offers the perfect escape from the stresses of modern life. During the summer months, more than 800 people per day come to enjoy a tradition that has been part of the hotel since she first opened her doors in 1908—afternoon tea service.

The hotel has long been accustomed to entertaining Hollywood celebrities; Rita Hayworth, Jack Benny, Katherine Hepburn, Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Roger Moore, John Travolta, Barbara Streisand, Harrison Ford, Shirley Temple and a host of others have passed through its lobby. In 1965, there was debate on whether to tear down what was becoming a faded, dowdy hotel, to make room for a more modern, functional high-rise hotel. One local newspaper warned that, 'Without this splendid relic of the Edwardian era, tens of thousands of tourists will never return.' The decision was announced on June 10, 1966: The Fairmont Empress would not be demolished. Instead she would embark on a $4 million campaign of renovation and refurbishment, playfully dubbed 'Operation Teacup.'

Accommodations

The Fairmont Empress features 477 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, with magnificent views of the city, courtyard or spectacular Inner Harbor. With a selection of unique guest room sizes and categories to suit every taste, this landmark Fairmont property is a tribute to classic elegance. The beautifully renovated Fairmont Gold floor features a private lounge with lavish continental breakfast, honor bar and evening hors d'oeuvres, complimented by an attentive concierge team, executive boardroom and internet access. The Fairmont Empress also features eight guest rooms enhanced specifically for guests with special needs.

Dining at Fairmont Hotels

No stay at The Fairmont Empress would be complete without a visit to one of the magnificent Victoria restaurants in this historic and iconic hotel. Whether you partake in the coveted English ritual of Victoria Afternoon Tea, savour the famous curry buffet in The Bengal Lounge or sample award-winning food and wine in The Empress Room, the impressive surroundings and exceptional cuisine guarantee a truly memorable Victoria dining experience. The Fairmont Empress believes in a farm to fork philosophy of bringing the best of Vancouver Island to your table. Whenever possible, the finest of local ingredients from the nearby Saanich Peninsula and Cowichan Valley regions are showcased in our versatile restaurants.

Hotel Activities and Entertainment

Guests of the hotel will find everything they need to make for an enjoyable stay, including a full spa and fitness center, as well as complete business facilities. With dining options on site, you may decide to spend the time indoors! The excellent concierge service at the Fairmont Empress is also ready to help set you on your way for discovery in and around Victoria and the Vancouver Peninsula, including sightseeing and shopping.

Weddings and Conferences

The Fairmont Empress, together with the adjoining Victoria Conference Center, provide the best of both worlds for a successful business meeting, convention or trade show.  Crowned by the historic Crystal Ballroom, The Fairmont Empress boasts five meeting rooms with up to 13,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Hotel amenities include an indoor pool, fitness center and the magnificent Willow Stream spa. The adjoining Victoria Conference Center is fully-integrated with The Fairmont Empress, providing flexible meeting space and state-of-the-art facilities that can accommodate up to 1,500 delegates and boosts up to 73,000 square feet of meeting space. Combined, these two facilities offer an unrivaled blend of 19th century hospitality and sophisticated 21st century technology.

Call now and be surprised at the savings. You'll be pleased with our fast response time and great group rates. Remember, we are group headquarters!