Historic Halifax: Behind the scenes of Nova Scotia's landmark hotel
Standing in one of Halifax's most ideal locations, the Westin Nova Scotian pulls out all the stops for an unforgettable experience: steeped in history, top chef Mark Marchment helms the restaurant and 140 of the rooms have views of the waterfront. If you like the idea of a luxurious, yet traditional hotel in the center of the city, this one ticks every box.
Style and sophistication
The hotel lobby is adorned with oak wood and has a feel of understated elegance about it. Furnishings are traditional with tall pillars framing the room's center, while small details — such as torch-like lighting fixtures and decorative cushions — are decidedly modern. Projecting the same air of sophistication are the hotel staff, greeting new guests with a welcome smile. Check-in will be a few hours longer if I want to keep my Harbourview Guest Room, but with so much to see nearby, I won't struggle to keep myself occupied.
Location, location, location
For easy access to the best sights in the city, The Westin's location in downtown Halifax is hard to beat. Just one block from the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 and five blocks from the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, you needn't worry about catching public transit — everything is conveniently within walking distance.
Must-visit shopping spots range from locally owned boutiques like Biscuit General Store, to independent music stores like Taz Records; and highly rated restaurants abound: in a three-block radius alone, you’ll find Ristorante a Mano, Stories Fine Dining, and my favorite, The Bicycle Thief. If you're traveling to and from Halifax International Airport, the Maritime Bus Airport Express Shuttle Service is available at the Westin. One-way tickets are $22 and return tickets are $40 but must be booked online beforehand.
A whole lotta history
One of the original Canadian national railway hotels which served as a supply base for trains, the “Nova Scotian” (as it was then known) originally opened its doors on June 23, 1930. While first renowned for its gorgeous tearoom with rose garden and luxurious ballroom, several years later, it was the Evangeline Room that stole the crown — the chosen location for Princess Diana's official royal dinner during a tour of Eastern Canada with Prince Charles in the 1980s.
Since then, the Westin Nova Scotian has become one of Halifax's most iconic hotels complete with 300 guest rooms, an award-winning restaurant “Elements on Hollis”, as well as a ton of facilities including an indoor pool, hot tub, and the innovative WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio. Frequently recommended as Downtown Halifax's best, the Westin Nova Scotian has seen everyone from the Queen and Prince Philip, to Cher and Bryan Adams walk through its doors.
Sleep tight
All of the hotel’s 310 guestrooms are comfortably equipped with The Heavenly Bed® and The Heavenly Shower/Bath® inviting you to enjoy a stay full of relaxation. Modern amenities include 32" LCD televisions and access to twenty-two cable channels, as well as offering movies for purchase, in-room minibars (on all except two floors), and a coffee maker with Starbucks refreshments. Traveling with your furry friend? The Westin is one of the few pet-friendly hotels available in downtown Halifax and will even provide your pooch with a Westin Heavenly® Dog Bed.
Take advantage of the hotel's 24-Hour Room Service, allowing you to order breakfast, lunch, dinner, and refreshments from the comfort of your bed. And fitness enthusiasts don't need to worry about forgetting their runners — with the Westin's New Balance Gear Lending scheme you can borrow a range of fitness wear and equipment by contacting the front desk.
Grab a bite
The Westin offers not one, but two restaurants for you to choose from. Stop by for a leisurely sit-down meal, or grab a quick bite at elements on hollis. As well as being the proud recipient of a Wine Spectator 2016 Award of Excellence, elements also offer a killer weekend brunch. Dining in for your evening meal? Top choices include the Coffee Crusted Beef Tenderloin and the delectable Butter Chicken.
Alternatively, visit Roy's Lounge, a great spot to grab coffee or lunch during the day, or to indulge in a cocktail or glass of wine in the evening. And if you're visiting Halifax in the summer months, you can enjoy your meal in Roy's exclusive outdoor well-lit patio which overlooks the scenic Cornwallis Park.
To reserve your stay at the Westin Nova Scotian, visit their website, or contact a member of the team for assistance.
Originally written for VIVA Lifestyle and Travel