Photography: The Westin Calgary
The Westin Calgary
Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop
Set the scene
As you walk into The Westin Calgary, you are immediately greeted by an ambience that exudes modern charm and timeless elegance. From the high ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers to the sleek contemporary furniture, everything in this upscale hotel screams sophistication and comfort. The lobby is vast, yet intimate, crafting a welcoming atmosphere that confidently sets the tone for the entire establishment.
The warm color scheme, coupled with tasteful artwork and plush furnishings throughout the common areas, offers guests an inviting environment where they can relax and unwind. Picture yourself lounging in the cozy, well-lit reading nooks with a good book, or catching up on work in the contemporary business center. Consistent hustle and bustle underscore the hotel's popularity amongst business travelers and tourists.
What can we expect in our room at The Westin Calgary
Each room sets the scene with stunning views over the city or Bow River, welcoming you into a luxurious space filled with natural light and contemporary decor. Throw yourself into the plush, enveloping comfort of their signature Westin Heavenly® Bed, promising an unrivaled repose. With amenities like a 55-inch HDTV and an ergonomic workspace at your disposal, you will experience a perfect blend of relaxation and productivity.
The Spacious bathrooms, designed with a modern touch, feature white tea amenities, a rainforest shower, and a spa-like ambiance giving you an invigorating start to the day. Highlighting a harmonious blend of comfort and contemporary design, each room ensures added convenience with complimentary high-speed internet access and 24-hour room service.
How about the food and drinks
The on-site restaurants offer a variety of dining options that will satisfy every palate. From the sumptuous steakhouse, Keg Steakhouse & Bar that specializes in top-tier steaks and succulent seafood, to the Starbucks café serving world-class coffee, fresh pastries, and more for those in need of a quick pick-me-up.
For those looking for a more intimate setting, Essence, the upscale bistro styled restaurant, showcases Canadian cuisine at its finest. You can also opt for the Liquid Lounge, a casual chic setting perfect for socializing over craft cocktails and a tapas-style menu.
What is the service like
The Westin team is known for going the extra mile, answering your queries promptly, and providing customizable service to cater to your individual needs.
Imagine needing assistance with your luggage, or craving a late-night room service meal — the swift and efficient staff at The Westin Calgary Hotel always come through. There’s a certain art to anticipatory service, and The Westin Calgary has mastered it. Whether it's housekeeping providing quick service or the concierge offering insightful local recommendations, the staff are always approachable and ready to assist.
What’s the neighbourhood scene like?
It's surrounded by some of Calgary's best attractions, ranging from the stunning Peace Bridge to the bustling Eau Claire Market. The hotel sits perfectly at the crossroads of the city's thriving business district and cultural hotspot, offering guests ample opportunity to explore Calgary in its myriad forms. The vibrant Stephen Avenue, famous for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, is only a short stroll away, as is Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline.
This strategic location makes the hotel an ideal starting point for your exploration of the city. By foot, you can easily travel to notable sights such as the iconic Calgary Tower, home to 360-degree views of the sprawling urban landscape, or the famed Calgary Zoo, just a quick drive away. A short walk takes you to the bank of the Bow River - a picturesque setting for a morning jog or casual afternoon stroll.
What’s the backstory
Carved out in 1963 from the raw clay of Calgary city's ambition, The Westin Calgary has evolved in tandem with Calgary’s spirited energy and its characteristic will to triumph. Not just a testament to high-quality accommodation, this iconic structure is a symbol of Calgary's steadfast resilience and growth. Born as the Calgary Inn, it was a daring project that soared to match its city’s thriving aspirations. The hotel’s initial days were marked by milestone events and gatherings, rapidly becoming the socialite’s go-to place, the business tycoon's premier meeting rooms, and the passionate traveler's home away from home.
Fast forward to the present day, The Westin Calgary has aged beautifully, remarkably adapting to the changing times without losing sight of its original charm and grandeur. Over the years, management exchanged hands, rebranding into the internationally acclaimed Westin chain, yet steadfastly retaining its intrinsic essence of warm hospitality mixed with the city’s resilient spirit. Today, it stands tall within the cityscape, not only as a majestic hotel but, charmingly, as a living piece of Calgary’s vibrant history.
Price Range
The most affordable room, a Traditional Guest Room with a king-size bed, starts at approximately 150 Canadian dollars per night. For those wanting more space, one-bedroom suites start at about 400 Canadian dollars per night. These suites offer stunning city views, a king-size bed, and a separate living area with a sofa, making them perfect for business travelers or families.
If looking for more luxury, consider the hotel's Presidential Suite. With the price starting at about 1500 Canadian dollars per night, these palatial accommodations provide breathtaking panoramic views and boast two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a dining area that can accommodate up to six people. This option is perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to indulge in a premium experience. Be aware that these are standard rates and may increase during high-demand periods or decrease with special promotions.
Amenities & Facilities
Their Eau Claire Market, a world-class fitness studio, is equipped with the latest workout machines, an offer of professional trainers, and a serene environment to amp up your exercise regimen during your stay. After a strenuous workout, dive into the indoor heated pool for a few laps or to unwind. Feeling tense? A calming session in the sauna is the perfect remedy.
As a business traveler, you will find the onsite business center, complete with high-speed internet access and comprehensive meeting facilities, incredibly useful. A 24-hour concierge service stands ready to attend to your needs, whether it's booking tour arrangements, securing a table at your favorite Calgary restaurant, or obtaining tickets to local shows. Sustainability is a keyword at the Westin Calgary, evident in their eco-friendly practices and Green Key Eco-Rating Program. As a guest, it feels good to know that your stay is contributing positively to the environment.
How to get to the The Westin Hotel in Calgary
Whether you've landed on Calgary soil for the first time or are a bonafide Albertan, reaching 'The Westin Calgary Hotel', located snugly in the heart of the city from the Calgary airport, is a breeze. For the public transport enthusiasts, take the 300 Airport-City Centre bus service from the airport which drops you at the Center Street platform, a mere 7-min walk away from the hotel.
Those burdened with hefty luggage or feeling jet-lagged could opt for a taxi or a ride-share service. Simply hail a cab from the taxi rank outside the airport. Most drivers are polite and knowledgeable about their city. Sit back and relax in the cozy backseat, watch Calgary unfurl itself through the window as your taxi traverses the cityscape and whisks you away to the impressive facade of 'The Westin Calgary Hotel'.
What Customers Have To Say
The hall carpet needs replacement, as it has stains.
What truly sets the Calgary Westin apart, however, is the exceptional service from the front-of-house staff. Inna, Faiz, and especially Cynthia, who consistently goes above and beyond, made our stay unforgettable. Cynthia's warm welcome and genuine care made us feel right at home. The entire team’s dedication to making every guest feel comfortable and valued is truly commendable. We can't wait to return!
Contact:
Address: 320 4 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2S6, Canada
Phone: +1 403-266-1611
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.