The Condé Nast number one ranked hotel of Vancouver Island 2009, The Fairmont Empress majestically raises over Victoria's Inner Harbour. This luxury hotel showcases the spirit and energy of Vancouver Island in grand style. With her turn-of-the-century beauty, The Fairmont Empress resort regally captures the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era, while her facilities and services meet the needs of today's traveler.

Whether it's 18-holes of world-class golf in a pristine setting or a soothing aromatic massage with essential oils in our Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Empress, the luxury castle-style of The Fairmont Empress Resort Hotel in Victoria offers the perfect escape from the stresses of a hectic lifestyle. From exhilarating ocean-bound whale watching safaris, world-class cultural exhibits and epicurean-rich local cuisine to picturesque garden and vineyard tours, you will be awestruck by the countless experiences The Fairmont Empress, Victoria and Vancouver Island has to offer!

Condé Nast Traveler - 2009 Winner

The Fairmont Empress, along with twenty-four other Fairmont hotels, has been recognized among the best in the world.

The Fairmont Empress earned an impressive number one ranking of hotels on Vancouver Island and number eleven on the top Canadian hotels. This marks the fifth consecutive time the iconic Victoria Inner Harbour hotel has been recognized on this prestigious list. In addition, Vancouver Island received the accolade as the number two island in North America and the city of Victoria is ranked number four city in the Americas.

All nominations and recognition are selected by Condé Nast readers, regarded among the world's savviest and most passionate travelers. Criteria for the awards are based on location, food, overall design, rooms and service, and hotels selected are regarded as the best in the world.