The Vibe
Stepping into the Inn at the Forks after a wintery day in Winnipeg feels like sinking into a warm bath. While its name might conjure images of a small, rustic property, Inn at the Forks’ is anything but: Combining an upscale boutique style with natural materials like stone, wood and slate, the hotel exudes a cozy elegance. It’s a particularly inviting retreat in the colder months, but its serene, spa-like vibes make it a welcoming home-away-from-home any time of year.
The Rooms
Rooms have a bright, minimalist aesthetic, decorated with neutral colours, blonde woods and a few pops of vivid local artwork. Standard room categories come with all the basics for work and play, including wired and wireless high-speed Internet access, along with work desks, Keurig coffeemakers, minibars, sitting areas and 55-inch HDTVs. Locally-made Riverstone Spa bath products, bathrobe and slipper sets and soft bedding all amp up the luxury factor. We stayed in a suite, which included a separate living area, two fireplaces and an glorious walk-in rain shower.
The Features
Given the hotel’s zen-style vibes, it’s no surprise that the spa is one of its star features. Riverstone Spa offers an extensive line-up of massages, skincare and energy and wellness treatments. The space includes an aromatherapy steam room, colour therapy sauna and rain therapy showers where you can chill out pre- or post-treatment (or both!).
The hotel’s SMITH restaurant serves up a solid menu of locally-sourced, seasonal fare. Linger here for breakfast before heading out for the day – we recommend the SMITHwich, a hearty breakfast sandwich featuring maple smoked cheddar, bacon and an egg tucked in a multigrain croissant and served with a side of hashbrowns – or they also have an impressive selection of scotches when you’re in the mood for a nightcap.
The Location
As its name implies, Inn at the Forks is located at the The Forks National Historic Site of Canada, a 6,000 year-old meeting place at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers.
The hotel is also right across from the Forks Market, a historic horse stable turned food-and-craft market, with tons of fantastic dining, drinking and shopping options. It’s also less than a five-minute walk from the can’t-miss Canadian Museum of Human Rights. Downtown Winnipeg is around a 15-minute walk away, or the hotel also offers a free downtown shuttle service. It’s a convenient base for outdoor pursuits, with the Forks serving as the starting point of numerous skating trails in the winter and walking trails in the warmer months.
Rooms start at $246 per night
75 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, MB, innforks.com
