Upon lounging in-room at the Loden Hotel, perhaps with a bottle of red wine sipped whilst sprawled on the luscious king bed, a familiar intersection may show up on the television screen. First in a car commercial and then in a movie, the streets of Vancouver—streets that are just around the corner from this very property—are on display.
That’s the beauty of the Loden: it is in the centre of it all, in walking distance of the waterfront, the Sea Wall, and the Robson shopping district. And yet, tucked snugly onto Coal Harbour’s quiet Melville Street, it still feels like a special little refuge.
Nodding to its coastal surroundings, the boutique hotel’s design is focused on natural stone and copper, paired with textured and vibrant decor. Large doors with golden handles open up to a chic and richly designed lobby, instantly setting the vibe for a mature and relaxing stay. Inside the Signature King room, a beautiful marble washroom with sleek deep soaker tub (and Molton Brown amenities) is striking, and features a movable wall that lets in natural light when all the way open. A desk, two sitting areas, and lush hotel robes make the space feel inviting and comfortable. And back to that natural light: it’s thanks to floor-to-ceiling curved windows, a part of which even opens to let in fresh air (rare for balcony-less suites).
When it comes time for sustenance, guests need not go further than downstairs, where the fabulous Tableau Bar Bistro connects to the lobby. The French restaurant, with classic black-and-white checker-tiled floor and lavish brown booths, is perfectly fresh and contemporary. Strong and delicious house-made bourbon cocktails include The Roundabout Cocktail with orange vermouth, black walnut bitters, and cynar, and the Paper Plane with amaro, aperol, orange, and fresh lemon; of course, there is also a fantastic wine list. Perhaps a delicious seasonal special to start? A spring trout tartare with crunchy crostini is notable; and good luck ever forgetting about the warming, succulent wild boar and elk ragout with garganelli pasta, kale, and padano cheese. Juicy meat, elegant sauce—truly perfect. There are desserts, too, and a nice selection of whiskies.
Guests staying in July 2017, Canada’s 150th birthday month, can participate in the Distinctly Canada experience, which includes poutine and a beer at Tableau, along with tickets to FlyOver Canada and a gift basket of local goodies such as Vancouver Island Sea Salt and the new cookbook Feast.
There are also various activities permanently offered at the Loden, for those who want to burn off their dinners and drinks: in-room fitness is possible with a 24-hour yoga channel and complimentary mats; there are free bicycles for cruising along the Sea Wall; and there are organized programs that take guests on hikes and bike rides into Vancouver’s wilderness. Or do none of that, and simply head back to the room and pour another glass of red.
