Elegant Island Retreats
By Barbara Ballard
The Beaconsfield Inn
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The Beaconsfield Inn
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The Beaconsfield Inn, a 1905 designated heritage property, is located on a quiet, tree-lined residential street a five minute walk to downtown Victoria, Beacon Hill Park and the waterfront.
A stuffed peacock and trickling fountain greet guests in the cheery sunlit conservatory awash with greenery. Stained glass windows abound, and comfy wicker furniture completes an ideal sitting area to enjoy the Inn's garden views.
Stepping into the entrance hall from the conservatory is like turning the clock back to the Edwardian era of the early 1900's when the Inn, designed by a famous architect, Samuel McClure, was built as a bridal gift from a wealthy Victoria mayor to his daughter. Eleven-foot ceilings and dark wood paneling compliment the antique sideboard while the warming fireplace adds a welcoming note.
Purchased in 1993 by the present owners, Judi and Con Sollid, it has been beautifully renovated to present 9 guestrooms, each with its own bathroom. The Sollids have personally chosen the antique pieces of furniture that now grace the guestrooms. Eight of the luxurious rooms have Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. Writing desks, feather duvets and mattresses and special bathroom amenities add to the comfort. In keeping with the historic setting of the building, the rooms do not have televisions or phones.
The 4th floor suite is a particular favorite with honeymooners. A cozy window seat looking over the garden and treetops, a turn-of-the-century canopied bed, a fire to snuggle up to - what more could one want?
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The Garden Suite Bedroom
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Two personal favorites are the Garden Suite and the Emily Carr Suite. The first has two sitting areas - a cozy one by the fireplace and another overlooking a private garden patio. The bedroom is separate.
The Emily Carr also has a separate bedroom. You can relax in the oversize Jacuzzi tub in the living area and enjoy the fireplace at the same time.
Afternoon tea in the dining room features fresh baked scones, strawberry jam, cookies, crackers and homemade chutneys. In the morning a delicious homemade breakfast awaits. Baked goodies may include apple and almond Danish, coffeecakes or apple and cranberry crisp. Entrees might be French toast, or perhaps three pepper mushroom and fontina strata, corn fritters with tomato salsa or potato latkes with chive sauce. Whatever is on offer, it's sure to be fresh and something special.
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The Library
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A Scottish laird will feel right at home in the library. Leather furniture to sink into, booklined walls complimented by green plaid wallpaper and a cheery fire are the perfect setting for an evening sherry before dinner at one of Victoria's many restaurants.
Whichever room you stay in, and whatever season of the year, the Beaconsfield Inn offers a relaxing visit treasured by travelers.
Essential Information
The Beaconsfield Inn is non-smoking and is not wheelchair accessible. Parking on premises. Special diets catered to. Breakfast trays are provided for travelers who have early departures. Local tours can be booked through the innkeepers.
Room prices vary from $150 Cdn. low season to $350 Cdn. high season.
Contact Information
Beaconsfield Inn
998 Humboldt St.
Victoria, BC
Canada V8V 2Z8
Telephone: 250-384-4044. Toll free: 1-888-884-4044
Fax: 250-384-4052
Email: beaconsfield@islandnet.com
Images by Barbara Ballard
Questions?
If you want more information about this area you can email the author or check out our North America Insiders page.
