Nobody ever remembers second place!

It did not take long during a recent visit to Prince of Wales to clearly understand why this historic landmark hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake was recently recognized by Travel + Leisure Magazine as the #1 hotel in Ontario. As part of the Vintage Hotels Collection, the Prince of Wales hotel is a sophisticated and refined oasis of Victorian elegance filled with 21st century comforts.

Built in 1864, Prince of Wales offers charm, elegance and romance in a unique intimate setting where Old World sophistication blooms in details such as fine English china in the Drawing Room, an original antique mantle in the Secret Garden Spa and a magnificent wine cellar which I was fortunate enough to visit under the watchful eye of sommelier Fred Gamula.

Known by several different names in its earlier history, the hotel was eventually named in honour of a royal visit in 1901 when the future George V and Queen Mary were guests. And it is certainly not difficult to picture the royal entourage against the backdrop of the current authentic style of the Victorian age including elegant antiques, traditional brocades and tapestries.

All guestrooms are individually designed with special touches which include fireplaces, king size beds, plush bathrobes and heated towels to slip into after enjoying a luxurious bath. It was almost too relaxing to then venture downstairs for dinner in the hotel's flagship restaurant, Escabèche.  Nonetheless, the trip was well worth the effort to experience Chef Andrew Dymond's unique menu featuring foods that showcase the region's boldest flavours. Served in an atmosphere of casual elegance, the evening was truly a highlight of my stay.

To my pleasant surprise, the next morning held just as much promise, with a visit to the Secret Garden Spa and being pampered with several signature treatments in an oasis of serenity. In addition to traditional treatments, Secret Garden Spa offers its own "Specialtea" treatments such as the Green Tea and Sugar Cane Pedicure and the Silk Road Tea Facial.

I reluctantly left Prince of Wales later that day, knowing I would always treasure my escape to the aptly appointed #1 hotel in Ontario. 

For more information, please visit: www.vintage-hotels.com/princeofwales.

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