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Where to Stay and What to Eat This March Break
February 22, 2023 4 Minute Read
Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or wind down this March Break, Canada has a hotel for everyone.
“Canadians are choosing to stay closer to home these days,” says Nicole Nguyen, Director at CBRE’s Hotels Valuation & Advisory Services group. “The hotel sector performed well in 2022 thanks to increased domestic travel and that momentum is expected to continue this year.”
Here’s where to stay, where to eat and what to do this spring.
1. Club Med Charlevoix
Club Med Charlevoix is the brand’s first foray into the North American ski resort market. Nestled between the St. Lawrence River and Le Massif Mountain, this cozy all-inclusive resort has three restaurants and two bars. Most ingredients are sourced in Canada, with close to a third having traveled less than 100 kilometres from farm to table. For those seeking authentic French-Canadian gourmet experiences, the menu features bottomless poutine and raclette made with local cheeses.
Over 100 activities are available at Club Med Charlevoix, including a nightly show that’s certain to get staff and guests dancing. The vacation package includes lift passes, ski and snowboarding lessons, access to fitness and wellness facilities, including a Nordic spa, and childcare for parents in need of a break.
2. Fairmont Banff Springs
Fairmont Banff Springs, which dates back to 1888, is an iconic Canadian hotel destination. Treat your palate to one the seasonally inspired menus or take the gondola to the Sky Bistro for a scenic feast at the top of Sulphur Mountain.
Banff boasts three ski resorts and snowshoeing trails. And history buffs can book a guided tour of the Banff Springs Hotel and Banff National Park.
3. The Muir in Halifax
Opened at the end of 2021 as part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, The Muir is located on the Halifax waterfront. Inspired by luxury ocean travel, accented with local art, and paired with the Nova Scotian hospitality, this hotel is the perfect option for those looking for some tranquil downtime.
The highlight? A secret speakeasy reserved for hotel guests. The bar offers cocktails inspired by Maritime history and rotating prohibition-era punches, which can be sipped on a private terrace overlooking the harbour.
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 will host a special March Break workshop on the art of portrait photography.
4. The Dorian in Calgary
Another addition to the Marriott Autograph family, The Dorian was inspired by Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, which is available to read in every room. Its extravagant interiors feature bold prints and whimsical designs.
Guests can choose from one of three dining venues, including a rooftop restaurant overlooking downtown Calgary that’s aptly named The Wilde on 27. The cocktail menu includes signature spirits such as the Eau Claire Dorian gin, distilled in nearby Turner Valley. And those who stop by on a Friday afternoon get to enjoy P.O.E.T.S. Day specials (P*** Off Early Tomorrow's Saturday).
If the weather permits, bundle up to skate at Prince’s Island Park or cross-country ski in the East Village. The Visit Calgary website lists weekly events in the area.
5. Pangea Pod Hotel in Whistler
Whistler is a March Break classic, but the Pangea Pod Hotel offers a new experience to travellers looking for something fresh. Located in the heart of Whistler Village, this quirky hotel has three different styles of compact private pods to choose from and common spaces where mountain sport fanatics can meet.
The hotel’s restaurant, The Living Room, features family-style tables and board games to encourage guests to connect.
Thrill-seekers can try bobsleighing or skeleton at the Whistler Sliding Centre, while those looking to explore beyond the slopes can learn about the rich Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Líl̓wat7úl cultures and traditions at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.
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