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Fairmont Château Laurier, Ottawa Valley Travel Guide

4.4 (5680)

Experience timeless elegance in the heart of Ottawa at the Fairmont Château Laurier, a historic landmark offering luxury accommodations and exceptional service.

The Fairmont Château Laurier, an iconic landmark in downtown Ottawa, blends French Renaissance architecture with neo-Gothic lines. Since 1912, it has hosted world leaders and celebrities, solidifying its place as a National Historic Site and a vital part of Canada's history.

A brief summary to Fairmont Château Laurier

Eve
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fairmont Château Laurier.

  • Explore the hotel's public spaces to view the collection of Yousuf Karsh portraits of famous figures.
  • Enjoy afternoon tea at Zoe's Lounge, a popular spot with a rich history.
  • Take a stroll along the Rideau Canal, located next to the hotel, for scenic views.
  • Visit the nearby ByWard Market for local food and artisanal crafts.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Ottawa International Airport (YOW), take the OC Transpo line 98 bus directly to Rideau Street. The bus departs hourly, and the trip takes approximately 34 minutes. From the Rideau A stop, the hotel is a short walk away. The cost is $4 CAD.

  • Taxi

    From Ottawa International Airport (YOW), a taxi to the Fairmont Château Laurier takes about 15 minutes. Taxi services are available at the airport entrance. The estimated fare is $40 - $55 CAD.

  • Walking

    From Parliament Hill, walk east on Wellington Street, then turn right onto Rideau Street. The Fairmont Château Laurier will be on your right, a short 5-minute walk. There is no cost for walking.

  • Parking

    Valet parking is available for overnight guests at the hotel for $67.80 CAD per day, including tax, with in/out privileges. Self-parking for restaurant and day guests is available nearby.

Discover more about Fairmont Château Laurier

Fairmont Château Laurier, often referred to as Ottawa's 'third chamber of Parliament' due to its popularity among politicians, has been a symbol of luxury and elegance since its opening in 1912. Commissioned by Charles Melville Hays of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, the hotel was designed in the French Renaissance style with neo-Gothic influences to complement the Parliament Buildings. Hays tragically died on the Titanic just before the hotel's grand opening.The Château Laurier has a rich history of hosting royalty, heads of state, and stars, including Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela, and Yousuf Karsh, the celebrated portrait photographer who maintained a studio in the hotel for many years. The hotel's architecture features granite blocks, Italian marble, and Indiana limestone. Inside, guests can find luxurious amenities, including the Laurier Room, Adam Room, and a state-of-the-art spa with an art deco swimming pool.Today, the Fairmont Château Laurier continues to offer luxury accommodations, dining, and event spaces, maintaining its legacy as a National Historic Site. Its central location provides easy access to Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market, and other attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring Canada's capital.
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