Wednesday, April 17, 2013

A Heavenly Stay at The Westin Harbour Castle Toronto


Let's just revel in this view for now, shall we? (Click on the picture to see a larger view)

Imagine waking up to this view in the morning during a delicious and freshly made in-room breakfast, or melting into a comforting Heavenly Bed® at night gazing out into the glistening waters, the moonlight and boat lights bouncing off the reflection of the lake.
It's no wonder Heavenly is the word used to describe Westin's signature product line-up.

This past weekend, my husband and I caught up on some much needed R&R at perhaps one of the best (and now one of my favourite) hotels in Toronto, The Westin Harbour Castle.
The view you get alone is worth the booking. Make sure you choose a room facing the Lake! It's absolutely breath-taking.

Check-in was a breeze and even though we were a bit early, we were accommodated.
Valet was quick and courteous and the Concierge was polite and professional.
Checking into a hotel should be nothing less than that.
We had a Junior Suite with King Bed on the 15th Floor facing Lake Ontario.
This is what we walked into.


Contemporary and Simple Decor including a chaise lounge and armchair, a desk with chair should you need to catch up on some work or make a phone call, a large stand with drawers and a small fridge to keep drinks and non-perishable food items cool, a mounted flat-screen TV, a King Size Bed, and in a seperate area near the hall of the entry way, a large closet and the bathroom.

I'd like to talk about the bed first. Or as they call it, Heavenly Bed®.
Billowy down blankets, five plush pillows and sumptuous pillow-top mattress, only until you experience it for yourself will you understand why they call it that.
*sigh* Once I lay on it, I did not want to get back up.
Westin designed every detail of the Heavenly Bed® to evoke superior slumber - from the crisp, white 250-thread count sheets to custom mattresses.

Seriously check out the view you get when lying in bed. Amazing!
On top of the comfort of the bed, everything was just so super clean!
The linens smelled so fresh -- you would think they never re-use them after it's been used.
That matters very much to me.  Nothing turns me off more in a hotel then odour, especially coming from the bedding.

The Bathroom was also spotless! I loved the way everything was laid out - easy to grab and find items you need. And the lighting was perfect! Ladies, getting yourself prepped and proper in this bathroom was a dream.


I didn't get a chance to snap a picture of the Bath and Body Product provided but the Heavenly Bath® White Tea scented Products smelled incredible! 
I usually find hotel bath and body products sub-par, but I can honestly say this is the first hotel bath products that I really, really loved. The scent of the body lotion was fantastic! I regret not purchasing some at the Harbour Gifts Shop before leaving. I will make sure to next time I'm back (and that will be soon!).
Also, their custom-designed velour bath robes are extremely cozy!

Before I go on, I have to share the divine spread that greeted me when I entered my room.


Thank you, Westin Harbour Castle and Staff! And to Valerie... merci mille fois!
They really know how to make guests feel special at The Westin Toronto.

Aside from the obvious comfort, lovely view and accommodations and great service, there are two other major reasons why The Westin Harbour Castle has made it to the top of my Favourite Hotels List:

1) They are extremely Family-Friendly
Offering some wonderful Family Packages (You can view them here) and even a Westin Kids Club which features: Nintendo® Wii™, Board games, Karaoke machine and a Play area on the pool deck.
There's something to satisfy every member of your family - no matter the age!
This includes your furry family member too! They offer a Heavenly Dog Program providing your pet with their own Heavenly Dog bed as well as treats. They don't forget anyone!

2) Clean and Green
The Westin Harbour Castle thrives on being green and even offers rewards for guests that choose to "Make a Green Choice" (Conserving water, electricity, etc.). Their main floor lobby lounge is even powered by 100% green power.
They also have a Breathe Westin® initiative. Being the first major hotel brand to convert to a smoke-free policy, they set the stage for an industry-wide shift in thinking. Now, more than 115 Westin hotels are smoke-free, providing healthier and cleaner environment for their guests.

Health and Comfort are truly number one priority to Westin.  

For those that love working out (hopefully I will fall into that category soon...), you can stay fit while travelling and take advantage of their Gear Lending Program in partnership with New Balance. They provide you with shoes and athletic wear for a nominal fee of $5.25. Also, their workout area located on the 5th floor is newly renovated with an indoor pool, fitness centre, squash and tennis courts (equipment provided). They also have yoga and personal training available.
Also on the 5th Floor, you can unwind and pamper yourself at the Votre Beaute European Day Spa.

Aside from the list of wonderful restaurants and bars they offer including: The Mizzen (Buffet Breakfast & Lunch), Chartroom, Coffee Bar and Toula (Italian Restaurant *Separate review to come*), they also offer 24 hour Room Service which includes In-Room Dining.
And for those that tend to get quite busy, this may be a good option. I love in-room dining!

I wanted my egg whites and they were able to do that. They also offer Gluten-Free meal options!
Delicious Pastries!
Ready to dig into a delicious and hearty breakfast!

Great way to start your day, don't you think?
I had a very busy morning and although I wanted to try out the Mizzen Restaurant, I had to go with the In-Room Breakfast, with absolutely no complaints of course.
Our deluxe breakfast was more than amazing and extremely gratifying. Filled us up for the entire day ahead!  Their menu is extensive with some really unique and tantalizing dishes.
If you're pressed for time or would just much rather enjoy your meal in the comfort of your room (in your comfy Westin Robe!), highly recommend the in-room dining!

Plus, it's not very easy leaving such a fabulous view.


We had such a remarkable and satisfying stay at The Westin Harbour Castle. They not only met our expectations, they exceeded it.
Thank you to The Westin Harbour Castle and Staff for making my weekend smooth, relaxing and pleasurable.
I will definitely be back again, and this time I will be bringing the children and taking advantage of the great Family-Friendly Packages they have.

Next time you're planning a stay in Toronto, a heavenly stay awaits if you choose The Westin Harbour Castle. You will not be disappointed!
 

12 comments:

Carrie Jeffreys said...

That is one amazing view!
Honestly speaking, I have never thought to stay at The Westin when booking a night in Toronto. Thank you for this informative review Carol! So great!
And that breakfast does look so good.

pinksuzanne said...

This is one great sounding hotel with the view that is gorgeous and would love to try it out some time

flowerchild said...

OMG I am so jealous. LOL. The view, room, treats, food they all look amazing.

Victoria Ess said...

This review was amazing. It looks like a great place to stay and it'll definitely be on my radar the next time I'm looking to stay in downtown Toronto.

Carol Gomez said...

Thank you all for the read and comments.
It truly is a must-stay the next time you're in Toronto. It's far from pretentious but offers the best and most relaxed accommodations with a view like no other!

Annie1 said...

That is one heck of a view! What a grand place to spend a few days! If I ever make it over to Toronto I'll be sure to check it out!

Thanks
RAFFLECOPTER name is Anne Taylor

Unknown said...

Holy smokes...that view from the bed....HEAVEN indeed. The food looks pretty darn good too...I"m beyond jealous at this point of the post now.

Unknown said...

I've stayed here too before and loved their brunch! great review!!

Unknown said...

The spread is wonderful, and the view too. I have not been to Toronto, staying here would be a treat for any staycation

Unknown said...

what a great review i have never stayed there maybe next time i will

sara rai said...

cake pops:D I love how you enjoy your life a lot. The pictures say it all!

Anonymous said...

Jocelyn H said…

Looks fantastic! Look at that view, and all the great amenities. Lakeside luxury!

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