Hôtel Le St-James

Description:

• A triumph of the union of design and preservation. Montréal's surge of new designer hotels spans the spectrum from superminimalist to gentlemen's club posh, and Le St-James sits squarely in the gentlemen's club end of the range. It began life as a merchant's bank in 1870, and the opulence of that station of privilege has been both retained and upgraded. The richly paneled entry hall leads to a grand hall with potted palms, carved urns, bronze chandeliers, Corinthian columns, and balconies with gilded metal balustrades. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner are served right in this "Banker's Hall," often accompanied by harp music. Rooms are furnished with entrancing antiques and impeccable reproductions. All have video screens that control lights, room temperature, and even the DO NOT DISTURB sign. The stone-walled, candlelit Le Spa, with both a regular massage table and full-body water therapy, has to be seen to be believed. The Rolling Stones have stayed here. Obviously they have excellent taste in lodging -- perhaps the Terrace Apartment Suite with private elevator access at C$5,000 (US$4,350/£2,150) a night?

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010

ForbesTraveler

•  Forbes Traveler 400 2008