Local & Cozy: The Best Boutique Hotels in Victoria 2023

Photo courtesy Hotel Rialto 

World traveler Caleb Dearsley gets cozy at the very best unique and chic boutique hotels in Victoria, BC

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Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, the city of Victoria is one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations. The big draw? In addition to its stunning setting on the Salish Sea on the country’s Pacific coast, Victoria attracts tourists from across the globe for its rich history, its vibrant cultural scene, and relaxed lifestyle.

To meet this ever-growing demand, Victoria offers a diverse range of accommodations, including a number of first-rate boutique hotels, a style of accommodations that have become increasingly popular in recent years. Usually smaller than their big-brand counterparts, the best boutique hotels in Victoria typically more intimate affairs that provide a personalized service, unique décor, and a strong sense of local character.

These cozy hotels are typically housed in historic buildings or architecturally interesting structures that have been refurbished and repurposed for modern use. They also offer a level of luxury and attention to detail that’s often absent in larger, more impersonal hotels.

Stay Local at the Best Boutique Hotels in Victoria

Another key feature of most boutique hotels in Victoria is the emphasis placed on the local community, a fact that provides guests with unique insights into a destination they may otherwise have missed. From the artwork on the walls to the products in the bathrooms, every aspect of your Victoria boutique hotel will have been carefully curated to reflect the city’s culture and character.

Feelng peckish? You can expect to find locally sourced food and drinks in the hotel’s restaurant or, if not, friendly staff will offer recommendations for the best nearby eateries. Looking for something to do? They’ll also offer tips and tactics for the best luxury shopping experiences, as well as the city’s top attractions.

Another advantage is location. Many of these chic and unique hotels are situated in the heart of Victoria’s most desirable neighborhoods, such as the Inner Harbour, James Bay, and Oak Bay. This allows you to experience the best of the city without having to venture too far from your accommodations.

Enjoy Unique Amenities and Experiences

When it comes to amenities, these top Victoria hotels also stand out, and tend to offer a range of unique options. From lush gardens to in-room fireplaces, each hotel has its own signature features that ensure it stands out from the crowd. Some hotels even offer spa services, while others have rooftop bars with stunning views of the city.

With their attention to detail, emphasis on local culture, and prime locations, these hotels have become a popular choice for discerning travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind, intimate, and authentic experience in this beautiful city.

Learn more by reading our list of the best boutique hotels in Victoria, BC, and find out what makes each of them special.

Local & Cozy: The Best Boutique Hotels in Victoria

Hotel Rialto  

Located in the heart of downtown Victoria and just a short stroll away the city’s vibrant China Town district, this classy 3-star boutique hotel is set in a renovated heritage building that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern luxury.

The hotel boasts 51 stylish guestrooms and suites, each designed with comfort and elegance in mind, and each equipped with flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffee makers, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and luxurious linens.

One of the unique features of Hotel Rialto is its inspired cocktail lounge, The Palms. This sophisticated space offers a relaxed atmosphere for you to enjoy a craft cocktail or a glass of wine. The hotel’s also popular for its deliciously creative menu featuring a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Hotel Rialto  

Fairholme Manor

One of Victoria’s most charming boutique hotels, Fairholme Manor is located in the city’s upscale Rockland neighborhood. Built in 1885, this classy Victorian mansion has been lovingly restored and transformed into a luxury boutique-style bed and breakfast with nine uniquely appointed guest rooms, each beautifully decorated with antiques, luxurious linens, and cozy fireplaces.

Fairholme Manor also boasts beautiful gardens, a tranquil pond, and a hot tub for guests to relax and unwind in. The innkeepers also provide personalized service and can help guests plan their day’s activities in Victoria.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Fairholme Manor

James Bay Inn Hotel, Suites & Cottage

Located in the historic neighborhood after which it’s named, The James Bay Inn Hotel is set in a heritage building that was built in 1911. Renovated since to provide modern comfort while maintaining its historic charm, this popular boutique hotel features 40 guest rooms, each decorated in a unique style and equipped with modern amenities including air conditioning.

Among the hotel’s standout features are its two popular eateries, the JBI Pub and JBI Café.  Both serve up delicious menu items made with locally sourced ingredients, along with craft beers and an extensive wine list.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit James Bay Inn Hotel

Swans Brewery, Pub and Hotel

Swans Brewery, Pub and Hotel offers a unique boutique hotel experience in an old historic brick building located in the heart of Old Town Victoria. The hotel features 30 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities and comfortable beds and bedding.

A highlight of a stay here is spending time in its on-site brewery. This popular local watering hole produces a variety of craft beers that can be enjoyed in the pub or taken up to your room. The hotel also features a lovely outdoor courtyard with a fire pit and a hot tub for guests to relax and unwind.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Swans Brewery, Pub and Hotel

The Inn at the Union Club

Set in an old Edwardian building constructed in 1913 that’s now been designated a city heritage site, the majestic Inn at the Union Club of British Columbia features 22 luxurious guest rooms and suites that are elegantly decorated with modern amenities and simply ooze historic charm.

Highlights of a stay here include sampling the menu at the hotel’s elegant dining room, which serves delicious meals made from locally sourced ingredients. The hotel also boasts a cozy library, a fitness center, and a spacious patio with stunning views of the city.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit The Union Club of British Columbia

Abigail’s Hotel

A cross between a luxury B&B and a chic boutique inn, Abigail’s Hotel is a luxurious destination located in the Rockland neighborhood of Victoria. The hotel is housed in a 1930s Tudor-style mansion and features 23 elegant guest rooms, each individually decorated with antiques, fine linens, and luxurious amenities.

Abigail’s Hotel also features a beautiful garden courtyard, a cozy library, and a lounge with a wood-burning fireplace. The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, as well as an evening wine and cheese reception for guests.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Abigail’s Hotel

Beaconsfield Inn

Beaconsfield Inn is a charming boutique hotel located in the historic James Bay neighborhood of Victoria. The hotel is housed in a beautiful 1905 Edwardian mansion that features elegant rooms and suites that are individually decorated with antiques and fine linens.

This first-rate inn also boasts a stunning garden courtyard, a cozy lounge with a fireplace, and a beautiful dining room that serves delicious breakfasts made from locally sourced ingredients.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Beaconsfield Inn

The Craigmyle

Another popular boutique hotel located in the Rockland neighborhood of Victoria, The Craigmyle is housed in a stunning 1913 Edwardian mansion that features 15 elegantly decorated guest rooms and suites.

Highlights of a stay include relaxing in the hotel’s cozy lounge beside its fireplace, enjoying a hearty meal in its elegant dining room, or relaxing on its lovely garden patio. The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, as well as an evening wine and cheese reception for guests.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit The Craigmyle

The Magnolia Hotel & Spa

Set in the heart of downtown Victoria, The Magnolia Hotel & Spa is a luxurious boutique hotel that features 64 elegant guest rooms and suites. Each of these comfortable units are individually decorated with luxurious amenities such as Nespresso coffee makers, Frette linens, and spa-inspired bathrooms.

Be sure to book a session in the hotel’s spa, which offers a range of treatments including massages and facials. There’s also a fitness center, a lovely rooftop terrace, as well as an on-site restaurant, The Courtney Room, which serves delicious West Coast cuisine made using locally sourced ingredients.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit The Magnolia Hotel & Spa

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Travel writer Caleb Dearsley is a resident of British Columbia and an active outdoors enthusiast who loves exploring the far-flung corners of his home province… and the world.