Discover the Best Luxury Hotels in British Columbia for 2023

Photo courtesy Fairmont Empress

Whether you’re here for the skiing, sightseeing, or the culture, you’ll find the perfect place to stay on travel expert Kim Kerr’s list of the best luxury hotels in British Columbia for 2023

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Known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, its rugged coastline, and endless opportunities for exciting outdoor adventures, British Columbia also boasts some of the most luxurious hotels in Canada.

Boasting exquisite accommodations, world-class amenities, and breathtaking natural surroundings, BC’s best luxury hotels are perfect for a relaxing getaway or a base from which to explore the province.

So whether you’re seeking a mountain retreat, an oceanfront escape, or an urban oasis, be sure to read through our list of the best luxury hotels in British Columbia for an unparalleled vacation experience.

The Best Luxury Hotels in British Columbia for 2023

Fairmont Empress, Victoria

Overlooking Victoria‘s picturesque Inner Harbour, the spectacular Fairmont Empress is an iconic hotel steeped in history and elegance. This National Historic Site offers 437 guest rooms, all beautifully appointed and featuring luxurious amenities.

A highlight of your stay will be partaking in a traditional afternoon tea in the hotel’s famed lobby lounge, as well as unwinding at the Willow Stream Spa. You’ll also want to reserve a table at the Q at the Empress restaurant where you’ll savor an array of locally sourced cuisine.

The hotel’s prime location in the heart of Victoria also ensures that you’ll be within easy walking distance of the city’s main attractions.

Riley Recommends: Read our features story and review of the Fairmont Empress to find out just how good this 4-star “luxury castle on the coast” really is. You can also watch our video on the hotel here.

And for the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Fairmont Empress.

Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, Vancouver

Situated in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the 5-star Wedgewood Hotel & Spa is undoubtedly one of the most popular luxury hotels in Vancouver.

This posh family-owned and operated luxury hotel is renowned for its personalized service and elegant accommodations, and features 83 plush guest rooms and suites, each adorned with lavish furnishings and private balconies.

The on-site Bacchus Restaurant & Lounge offers a fine dining experience, complete with live piano music, while the award-winning spa at Wedgewood provides a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hotel’s prime location also ensures you’ll be within walking distance of Vancouver’s main attractions, shopping, and dining experiences.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Wedgewood Hotel & Spa

The Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Victoria  

Another of our favorite luxury hotels in Victoria, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking ocean views. Located in the charming seaside community of Oak Bay, this 4-star hotel features 100 guest rooms and suites, each with a cozy fireplace and private balcony overlooking the water.

The hotel’s spa and mineral pools offer a serene retreat, while the three on-site restaurants, Faro, The Snug, and The Dining Room, serve delicious local cuisine. Just a short drive from downtown Victoria, this hotel is perfect for those seeking a tranquil and romantic escape.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit The Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver

Located in downtown Vancouver, the Fairmont Pacific Rim offers an urban oasis with exceptional service and unparalleled luxury. This elegant 5-star hotel features 367 guest rooms and suites, each with lavish amenities and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing stunning views of the city, mountains, or waterfront.

On-site amenities include the Willow Stream Spa, one of our favorite hotel spas in Vancouver. Afterwards, lounge around the rooftop pool in a private cabana, or push yourself with a workout at the state-of-the-art fitness center.

You’ll also enjoy exquisite dining at the Botanist, an award-winning restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients. You’ll also want to relax with a cocktail at the Lobby Lounge and RawBar, which offers live music and an extensive sushi menu.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Fairmont Pacific Rim

the DOUGLAS, Vancouver

Part of the classy Autograph Collection hotel group, the DOUGLAS is a stylish luxury property situated in the heart of Vancouver’s vibrant Parq entertainment. Boasting 188 boutique-style guest rooms and suites, you’ll enjoy tastefully designed accommodations decorated with natural materials and floor-to-ceiling windows to showcase the city’s spectacular views.

the DOUGLAS public spaces also pay homage to the Pacific Northwest, incorporating elements of the region’s natural beauty into its design. You’ll also notice this on the hotel’s 30,000 sq ft rooftop park, a lush urban oasis with incredible views of False Creek and the city skyline.

Hungry? Food and drink options include The Victor, a top-tier steak and seafood restaurant, and D/6 Lounge, a sophisticated rooftop bar that’s perfect for a nightcap. The hotel’s central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring Vancouver’s main attractions.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit the DOUGLAS

Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel, Whistler

Located in the heart of Whistler Village, the 4-star Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel offers a luxurious retreat with a unique blend of contemporary design and mountain-style charm. This intimate hotel features just 81 guest rooms and suites, each with a well-equipped kitchenette and cozy fireplace.

Fun things to do here include indulging yourself in a soothing treatment at the on-site Lotus Spa & Lounge or relaxing by the heated outdoor pool and hot tub. The hotel’s restaurant, Elements Urban Tapas & Wine Bar, serves an enticing menu of tapas and innovative cocktails, while the on-site café offers a casual spot for a quick bite or coffee.

A highlight of your stay here is the hotel’s proximity to all the action in Whistler. Thanks to its prime location, you’ll find yourself just steps away from the ski lifts, great shopping, and countless dining experiences.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel

Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Vancouver

Opened in 1927 and meticulously restored to its original grandeur, Rosewood Hotel Georgia is an iconic luxury hotel in the heart of downtown Vancouver. This historic 5-star property features 156 guest rooms and suites, each elegantly appointed with lavish furnishings and modern amenities.

You’ll definitely want to book a session at the hotel’s Sense spa, which provides a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Other wellness amenities include a well-equipped fitness center and an indoor saltwater swimming pool.

When it comes to dining, the Rosewood certainly delivers and offers an array of dining options. Our favorite is the award-winning Hawksworth Restaurant, a superb eatery headed by Chef David Hawksworth. Other must-tries here include the 1927 Lobby Lounge, popular for its superb signature cocktails, and the al fresco Reflections Terrace.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations for one of the very best luxury hotels in British Columbia, visit Rosewood Hotel Georgia

The Josie Hotel, Rossland

The Josie Hotel, a ski-in / ski-out hotel located at the base of Red Mountain Resort in Rossland, offers a modern and stylish mountain retreat. Part of the Autograph Collection of chic hotels, this 4-star property features 106 guest rooms and suites, each boasting floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains or valley.

The hotel’s amenities include a full-service spa, a fitness center, and a heated outdoor slope-side pool. It’s also located close to much of the action at Red Mountain, including superb skiing and, in summer, mountain biking.

Reserve a table at Velvet Restaurant and Lounge which offers an upscale dining experience featuring a menu inspired by locally sourced ingredients and regional flavors.  

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit The Josie Hotel

Fairmont Vancouver Airport

Here’s one for those of you wanting to be close to Vancouver’s international transport hub: Fairmont Vancouver Airport. This exceptional 5-star luxury hotel is handily located within Vancouver International Airport and provides unparalleled convenience along with a serene retreat before or after your travels.

Boasting 386 soundproofed rooms and suites, each offering stunning views of the runways, mountains, or ocean, you’ll also have access to a wide array of on-site amenities. Topping our list is the hotel’s health club, complete with a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. You can also enjoy a treatment at the on-site Absolute Spa.

Dining in? Reserve a table at the award-winning Globe@YVR restaurant which serves a seasonal menu of Pacific Northwest cuisine. For a drink and a light bite, visit the Jetside Lounge, popular for its extensive wine and cocktail list and relaxed atmosphere.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Fairmont Vancouver Airport  

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Kim Kerr is a luxury travel writer with a soft spot for the province of British Columbia. She’s also a Co-founder of Riley International Media, a leading source for luxury lifestyles and travel.