ABOUT
The original Oak Bay Beach Hotel was built in 1927 but destroyed by fire in 1930. Paying homage to the English Manor House style, the hotel was rebuilt and reopened in 2012. Today, the one hundred room luxury waterfront resort includes three dining options, a full service spa and the David Foster Foundation Theatre.
THE ROOM
The unparalleled view of the Pacific ocean, illuminates our spacious 500 square foot room in the morning, and lulls us to sleep in the evening. Dark wood, teal and white decor echo the blue sky meeting the ocean, while a galley kitchen is ideal for guests with families. The spacious bathroom with double sinks, heated floors and sunken tub with french shutters that peer into the ocean are all details that add charm to the room. Evenings, curled up by the fireplace, or on the private balcony sipping a glass of wine and watching the sun set is one of the pleasure of this hotel.
DINING
Choose from three dining options on site: The Dining Room, The Snug Pub and Kates Cafe. While The Snug Pub serves up a seafood centric menu like saffron mussels, fried calamari, and po’ boy sandwiches (great with a pint), The Dining Room excels at refined cuisine, such as Olive Dusted Halibut, Pumpkin Ravioli and Herb Roast Rack of Lamb with an array of classic desserts to match (read: Okanagan Peach Tart, and sticky toffee pudding). Don’t skip breakfast. Order the smoked salmon Benny with two perfectly poached eggs, and wild sockeye salmon on a toasted english muffin, gently coated with a hollandaise and served with house potatoes. For a lighter option the delicious local greek yogurt, berries and granola will set up your day, perfectly.
SPA
As Victoria’s only oceanfront spa, Boathouse spa and baths includes three hot outdoor mineral baths, a steam sauna, manicure and pedicure rooms, three individual massage rooms and one couples massage room. We had a rejuvenating relaxation massage, using Swedish techniques.
LOCATION AND AMBIANCE
Located in quiet Oak Bay, the five star luxury hotel extends warmth and old world glamour (think oak panelling, rich fabrics and classic furnishings), without pretention. Spend an evening walking to the small cove just beyond the spa, laze on a piece of driftwood, and watch the tide gently wash atop the pebbles ashore.
One of the most unique features at the property is the luxury theatre, where movies are played weekly, and dinner and show events, and special performances are shown throughout the year with a portion of proceeds going toward the David Foster foundation.
1175 Beach Dr, Victoria
Get more from CSL’s visit to The Okanagan
This original hotel article first appeared in the Winter 2016 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
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