Name: Fairmont Château Laurier
Address: Canada

Historical Legacy & Architecture

Commissioned by Grand Trunk Railway’s Charles Melville Hays and opened in 1912, Fairmont Château Laurier stands as a National Historic Site, embodying early 20th-century grandeur. Designed by Ross and Macfarlane, the Châteauesque architecture—with limestone turrets, copper roofs, intricate plasterwork, and Tiffany stained glass—complements the nearby Parliament Hill. Its construction cost $2 million, and from its first years it hosted prime ministers, royalty, and dignitaries.

Location & Historic Role

Perched above the Colonel By Valley by the Rideau Canal locks, the hotel enjoys panoramic views of Ottawa River, Parliament Buildings, and Major's Hill Park. A tunnel links it to the former Union Station, underscoring its historical ties to rail travel. Prominent figures including Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth II, and Canadian PMs resided or negotiated here, cementing its reputation as "Canada’s third chamber of Parliament."

Accommodations & Facilities

The hotel offers 429 rooms and suites ranging from spacious Deluxe View accommodations to exclusive Fairmont Gold services offering elevated hospitality and concierge access. Many rooms feature views of Parliament or the Rideau Canal, work desks, Nespresso machines, charging hubs, and open-concept layouts. Notable spaces include the Renaissance Room for events, restaurants offering award-winning seasonal menus, afternoon tea, and a scenic summer patio. Amenities include a spa, fitness centre, and art gallery.

Culinary & Social Spaces

Guests can enjoy refined dining experiences, handcrafted cocktails on the scenic terrace, and traditional afternoon tea with a modern twist. The hotel's public areas showcase historic photos, artworks, and communal elegance, inviting both guests and visitors to explore its heritage.

Cultural Significance & Contemporary Recognition

Beloved as Ottawa’s "castle," Château Laurier remains a symbol of national heritage and refined hospitality. It has inspired pop culture, including web series set within its walls, while recently making headlines for the return of a stolen Winston Churchill portrait ("The Roaring Lion"), which was recovered internationally and returned in 2024.

Final Thoughts

Fairmont Château Laurier blends storied elegance and modern comfort in a central, scenic setting. Its architectural heritage, refined amenities, and storied guest history—and even its cultural moments like the Churchill portrait recovery—underscore its enduring place in Ottawa’s identity.