In the late 19th century, Queen Victoria envisioned a transcontinental railway network for Canada, not merely for freight but as a catalyst for tourism. This ambition led to the construction of grand, castle-like hotels designed to attract travelers and offset the immense costs of railway expansion. These establishments, often built in a blend of European styles, were intended to showcase Canada as a sophisticated nation and encourage immigration from Britain.
A Network of Landmarks
The network of railway hotels expanded rapidly across Canada, from Nova Scotia to British Columbia, by World War II. Architectural historian Hal Kalman noted that these hotels were strategically built to encourage travelers to break their journeys, thereby generating additional revenue for the railway companies. Podcaster Craig Baird, specializing in Canadian history, describes them as "pilgrimage-worthy landmarks."
Many of these hotels are no longer in operation, having been demolished or repurposed as car ownership became prevalent in the 1950s. However, approximately a dozen continue to operate today, primarily under the Fairmont Hotels and Resorts banner, with the exception of The Algonquin Resort, managed by Marriott.
Architectural Marvels and Their Stories
The Fairmont Banff Springs, opened in 1888, is one of the most famous. Designed in a Scottish baronial style, its location was determined by the discovery of natural hot springs. Despite its grandeur, the original architect reportedly oriented the building incorrectly, not optimizing the views of the surrounding valley.
Opened in 1929, the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto is a 28-story limestone skyscraper situated near Union Station. During the Jazz Age, it served as a hub for important gatherings, including the 2010 G20 summit, and featured amenities such as an underground network connecting guests directly to the train station.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City, which opened in 1893, presents a fairytale-like facade inspired by the Loire Valley chateaux of France. Its distinctive architecture has made it a recognizable landmark, even appearing in Alfred Hitchcock's 1953 film "I Confess."
The Fairmont Palliser in Calgary, a four-star hotel opened in 1914, was named after Captain John Palliser, who surveyed Western Canada. Its construction helped establish Calgary's reputation beyond its pioneer roots.
Overlooked Gems and Coastal Charms
In New Brunswick, The Algonquin Resort, which reopened in 1891 after its predecessor burned down, is described by Baird as a "beautiful, overlooked one." Situated on the Bay of Fundy, it offers golf and is part of Marriott's Autograph Collection.
The Fairmont Empress, opened in 1908 in Victoria, British Columbia, is the westernmost of the railway palaces. Its location on the Inner Harbour was designed to accommodate both railway travelers and steamship arrivals from Asia, connecting them to the eastern parts of Canada by train.
The Fairmont Château Laurier in Ottawa, opened in 1912, is adjacent to Parliament Hill. Its construction was controversial, as it was approved for use of public parkland. The hotel opened shortly after the death of its builder, Grand Trunk Railway magnate Charles Melville Hayes, who died on the Titanic.
Legends of the Unseen
A common thread among these historic hotels is the presence of alleged spectral residents. At the Fairmont Banff Springs, visitors might encounter the "Ghost Bride" or the spirit of a former head bellman named Sam McCauley. The Fairmont Royal York is said to be frequented by an older gentleman in a maroon smoking jacket on the eighth floor.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is rumored to be haunted by the spirit of the hotel's namesake, a French nobleman who longingly gazes out a window. The Fairmont Palliser has reports of a man in a railway conductor's uniform and a 1940s socialite.
At The Algonquin Resort, rooms 308 and 373 are noted for unexplained phenomena, while room 473 is associated with the "Jilted Bride," who supposedly jumped from a window. The Fairmont Empress is reputedly home to its architect, Francis Rattenbury, who was murdered in England.
Staff at the Fairmont Château Laurier have reported sightings of Charles Melville Hayes, the man who died on the Titanic and oversaw the construction of many of these hotels. More commonly, a young girl is said to be responsible for moving furniture and opening doors.