Hotel Julie: What’s the draw
Gorgeous design meets glorious privacy at Stratford’s new stylish boutique property, Hotel Julie. The reimagined 19th-century row house features nine unique flats, each bathed in its own colour palette and sultry design. Deep hues are accented by velvet, marble, quirky prints and gold flourishes, while rounded doorways and fixtures add to the sumptuous yet playful atmosphere.
There’s no lobby or common area — guests are given a door code to their flat in advance of their stay at this Shakespeare-themed abode. Full kitchens, comfortable furnishings and domestic decorative items make the flats truly feel like a home away from home. Plus, touches like the Our Place pots and pan, and Public Goods toiletries deserve a standing ovation.
Hotel Julie: What's on the menu
While there are no on-site dining options, Stratford’s main strip is just a short walk away, and the hotel offers dining packages with the nearby Bluebird restaurant and bar. For $80, hotel guests can tuck into an exclusive three-course, prix-fixe menu at the cute and quirky bistro. Old and new blend in the lively space where the focus is "bistronomy" (bistro and gastronomy) inspired cuisine.
The seasonal menu includes your choice of small plates like crispy ham and cheese croquettes with sharp cheddar. Follow it up with melt-in-your-mouth beef cheek pappardelle as a knock-out main, then close the night with crème brûlée or sticky toffee pudding for a delicious dessert. Pair it all with Bluebird's pleasant craft cocktails or short but well-curated wine list.
The next morning, opt for a $50 brunch for two from Foster's Inn which includes a fresh fruit bowl, your choice of five different main course options and coffee or tea. Or stay cozied up in your room with the Staying Inn breakfast for two which features six local, farm-fresh eggs, two ready-to-bake croissants and a bottle of freshly pressed orange juice for just $25.
Hotel Julie: What else
The focal point of the CTV show Staying Inn: Hotel Julie, the stylish property has its own star power. And with the hotel’s comfortable design, it would be easy to stay here for a weekend and never leave. But, in addition to Stratford’s thriving theatre scene, there are plenty of other local activities to round out your weekend itinerary.
If the weather permits, take a stroll around the Shakespearean Gardens or paddle along the Avon River. Guests visiting the Festival City during winter months can catch a viewing at the Little Prince, the world’s smallest movie theatre. The award-winning, annual winter festival Lights on Stratford kicks off December 15 and runs until January 13.
Flats from $300 a night.
Hotel Julie, 92 St. Vincent St. N., Stratford, ON; hoteljulie.com
