Regina’s historic and regal Hotel Saskatchewan

by W. Andrew Powell
The Hotel Saskatchewan in Regina

Historic hotels are doorways into a city, where you not only peer into the past and future, but live a part of the story the city has to share. Across Canada, some of the most incredible stories and spaces started with the stunning Canadian Pacific Railway hotels that were opened in the years following Confederation, like Regina’s Hotel Saskatchewan.

The Hotel Saskatchewan (2125 Victoria Avenue, Regina, Saskatchewan), is the oldest hotel in Regina, opening in 1927, and recently joined Marriott International’s Autograph Collection after completing a $12-million renovation. Next year, the historic CAA Four Diamond-rated hotel will celebrate its 90th anniversary, and it’s ready to do it in style with modern new touches that compliment the hotel’s beautiful old-world architecture, with rooms that are elegant, charming, and most of all, comfortable.

From the moment you step into the front door, the hotel is inviting and regal with rich gold accents next to classic pale stone, wood, and beautiful chandeliers that spread a warm glow over the lobby. It’s a beautiful space, and it’s made all the more charming by staff who are welcoming and friendly, and go out of their way to make things perfect. It’s also impossible not to walk by the new Circa 27 lobby lounge without wanting to stop for a drink or a moment by the fireplace.

Premier's Suite at Hotel Saskatchewan
While I was visiting I was treated to the Premier’s Suite, a luxurious one-bedroom space complete with a large living room, and two bathrooms that are both classic and contemporary. The suite features two chandeliers, and looks out over the front of the hotel and Victoria Park across the street, which is one of the nicest views in the city.

This was also the first time that I’ve ever stayed in a suite that offered two chandeliers, one of which was over the bed–that’s just the ultimate luxury statement in my books.

Walking around the hotel, the history of the building feels very present. It’s a bit fun to think about some of the people who have stayed there over the decades, from Queen Elizabeth II and members of the British royal family, to the Rolling Stones, Liberace, numerous Prime Ministers of Canada, and, yes, even Justin Bieber.

When you’re there, a drink or a bite to eat at Circa 27 is a must, even for a coffee or a late-night meal. The new lounge is comfortable and classy, with big plush chairs and excellent fare whether you enjoy upscale pub food, or something more classy. Like any good hotel restaurant, there is also a great focus on local food, including dishes like the Lake Diefenbaker Trout, and Charbroiled Bison Burger. All of the prices are excellent too.

Circa 27 lobby lounge
At breakfast, the hotel serves a buffet in the dining room for $19.00, which offers a fantastic array of hot and cold specialties, from crepes and an omelette station, to fresh breads and fruit.

For the busy traveller, or anyone who just needs a break, the Hotel Saskatchewan also offers a spa, a beauty salon and barber shop, and a large fitness centre with a whirlpool tub.

The Hotel Saskatchewan is just over a 20-minute drive from the airport, so you can be downtown and ready to explore in about 30 minutes from stepping out of the terminal. And the hotel is just a short 10-minute walk from the heart of the city, or it’s a short drive, or even a walk, to most of the city’s attractions, including Wascana Centre Park, Casino Regina, and the Legislature Building.

Although this was my first trip to Regina, it won’t be my last, and I’m looking forward to exploring the city more. When you’re there next, I definitely recommend the Hotel Saskatchewan. It’s a wonderful step into history, and it’s a perfect gateway to enjoying the city, or even travelling around the rest of Saskatchewan for adventures in the province.

Save

Save

Save

Join our list

Subscribe to our mailing list and get weekly updates on our latest contests, interviews, and reviews.

Thank you for subscribing.

Something went wrong.

You may also like

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Accept Read More