Perfect Road Trip Resorts.
September 05 2023, Mercedes-Benz Vancouver
Ready, set, drive! These destination hotels are a sweet finale to any road trip.
Naramata Inn
The Vibe: Culinary Boutique Gem
Travel Time: 5 hours
Any seasoned hotel-goer will quickly fall in love with Naramata Inn on the eastern shore of Lake Okanagan. This 1908-era inn has been reinvigorated into a modern-day boutique hotel with 12 mission-style rooms and luxurious amenities (high-thread-count sheets, plush robes) that any seasoned hotel aficionado will appreciate. Opened in 2020 by celebrated Canadian chef Ned Bell and his wife, Kate Colley, the cuisine at the Restaurant at Naramata Inn is second-to-none, highlighting local ingredients and BC wines.
The Josie
The Vibe: Nature-Loving Style
Travel Time: 7 hours
The Kootenay Rockies region is home to The Josie—a boutique Autograph Collection hotel in Rossland, BC—which means that outdoor activities abound in the stunning surrounding terrain. Golfing, fly fishing, mountain biking, and hiking the legendary Seven Summits ridge-line trail are just a few adventurous options. Executive chef Takashi Harada leads the charge at The Velvet Restaurant and Lounge, so your post-nature-excursion meal will be sure to please. This RED Mountain Resort hotspot also makes for an excellent winter trip, where it transforms into an epic ski-in, ski-out destination.
Fairmont Empress
The Vibe: Picture-Perfect Escape
Travel Time: 3.5 hours
There’s just so much to love about the Fairmont Empress in Victoria, BC—a.k.a. ”Canada’s Castle on the Coast”—and ever since it underwent a $60-million renovation six years ago, the queen’s decor has shone brighter than ever. As far as location goes, you can’t pick a better spot than this harbourfront property, and with various fun dining options—including an al fresco Lunch on the Lawn experience, which includes a picnic basket lunch and optional bottle of Veuve Clicquot—and in-house Willow Stream Spa for indulgent treatments, the royal treatment is exactly what you’re signing up for with a stay here.
Watermark Beach Resort
The Vibe: BC’s Warmest Welcome
Travel Time: 5 hours
What more can be said of Canada’s pocket desert destination? From rolling hills of over 40 vibrant vineyards and desert pastel tones to the shimmering reflection of Osoyoos Lake and a charming, walkable downtown core. At the heart of it all, Watermark Beach Resort is your gateway to a signature retreat. With welcoming condo suites, rejuvenating amenities and immaculate dining at 15 Park Bistro just steps away, Watermark presents endless opportunities to rediscover yourself in a wholly unique BC landscape.
Honourable Mention - Paradox Hotel
The Vibe: Luxury in the City
You won’t have to road-trip far to find the Paradox Hotel Vancouver on Georgia Street in the heart of downtown. Recently opened last year, its rooms are perfect for a city-dwelling staycation with fantastic city views from the higher levels, top-of-the-line amenities, and lavish artwork. It even has a multi-level nightclub (Mansion), an acclaimed Chinese food restaurant (Mott 32), and a chill-vibes cocktail bar (Karma Lounge).
