The Bruce Hotel: What’s the draw
Open for over a decade, The Bruce Hotel has established itself as a destination worth making the trip to Stratford for. It’s received the coveted AAA/CAA Four-Diamond status since opening, and snagged Five-Diamond recognition the past two years (it’s the only boutique hotel in Canada to hold this honour).
Named after the owner’s late father, The Bruce is spread across 6.5 acres of landscaped property. Despite its size, the hotel is charming in its details and service. While a visit during festival season puts you within walking distance of Stratford’s main theatre, I find respite visiting in the off-season, sitting by the roaring lobby fire and enjoying the amenities.
The Bruce Hotel: The rooms
There are only 25 rooms at The Bruce Hotel. At 600 to 750 square feet — larger than many Toronto apartments — they’re huge by today’s standards, and very well-appointed. Named after and inspired by Shakespearean characters, each room features unique linens, wallpaper and decor.
A juliette balcony lets you take in the grounds from the comfort of your room, while separate vanities in the bathroom offer more space than I know what to do with. If you’re travelling with a group, The Cottage is a cozy accommodation just steps from the main property that accommodates up to six guests.
The Bruce Hotel: What’s on the menu
The on-site eatery, aptly named The Restaurant, is worth a visit whether you’re staying at the hotel or not. Contemporary Canadian cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients is served from breakfast to dinner, along with a happy hour, afternoon tea, fondue night and themed dinners throughout the year.
While you can order almost everything from The Restaurant to your room, the real highlight is the 24-hour Cookie Hotline. Yes, that’s right: warm, freshly baked in-house cookies delivered straight to your room at the click of a button on the phone. Dreams do come true after all.
Rooms from $490 per night; thebruce.ca
