A Bit of Old England at the Empress Hotel, British Columbia

If you’d like a taste of old-fashioned elegance, while still enjoying a modern resort, the Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia may be just your cup of tea – in more ways than one.  The modern amenities include an 18-hole golf course, spa, rooms, day trips and tours, all balanced against the English charm of ivy-covered walls, an impressive English decor, and the traditional, and elegant, Afternoon Tea.

The Empress, now part of the Fairmont brand, opened in 1908, and although it has been through a variety of restorations, the original look remains.  It’s been a favorite of Hollywood, old and new, and is a popular choice for special occasions.

Many people, even if they’re not staying at the hotel, opt to visit for the legendary Afternoon Tea.  Served in the Tea Lobby, the Harborside Room, and in the Library, Afternoon Tea has been an Empress tradition for nearly 100 years.  Seating starts at noon and requires reservations, often times weeks in advance.  You can always check for a last minute cancellation, or no-show, as reservations are only held for 10 minutes.

The hotel strives for authenticity with the menu and the presentation.  Here’s a little sample from the menu:

• Fresh Seasonal Fruit with Chantilly Cream
• Warm Raisin Scones served with Strawberry preserves and Devonshire Cream
• Smoked Salmon Pinwheel Sandwiches
• Multigrain Crostini topped with mixed Mushroom Pate, drizzled with Truffle Oil (open-faced)
• Battenburg-Vanilla and Chocolate Sponge Checkerboard wrapped in marzipan
• Lemon Tart- Lemon Curd with Berry Garnish
• Marble Chocolate Tulip- a cherry hidden under milk and white Chocolate in a Chocolate Tulip Cup

An Afternoon Royal Tea, which includes a glass of champagne is also available.  If you’re traveling with children, they’ll be treated like royalty with the Prince & Princess Tea, which has menu selections specifically designed for a child’s palate:

• Teddy Bear Cookies
• Mini Cup Cake filled with Jelly Beans
• Cucumber Finger Sandwiches
• Heart-Shaped Cream Cheese & Raspberry Jam Sandwich
• Bubblegum Tea

The Fairmont Empress is located at 721 Government Street (overlooking the Inner Harbor) in Victoria, British Columbia.

Photo credit: Paul Mannix @flickr