There’s no place like home, except if home is Le Germain Ottawa for the night.
After recently moving from the Byward Market in the heart of the nation’s capital to a small town on the St. Lawrence, I could not wait to experience my old stomping grounds from the chic locale of the city’s newest boutique hotel; Le Germain.
I always seek out boutique hotels when I can because I enjoy the atmosphere of a personal, slow-vibe place. You feel less like you’re being processed and more like you’re being welcomed. There is also great attention to detail in boutique hotels; for example, the food served at Le Germain Ottawa‘s restaurant, Norca, is locally sourced.
As cliche as it may sound, walking into the cozy lobby of this hotel on a rainy Saturday afternoon really did feel like coming home. The staff was warm and friendly, and our 7th floor room had a corner view onto the market below. I was back in my little urban corner of the world and I loved it.
Having lived around the block, I already knew the location was superior. With the new Ottawa Art Gallery and Jackson Cafe as neighbours, the National Art Centre, Parliament, and the National Gallery of Canada within walking distance, Le Germain is at the centre of Ottawa’s cultural scene. A smiling concierge who is happy to help is always at your fingertips, so you can be sure to catch all the best Ottawa-spots through their knowledge.
For me, the beauty of Le Germain in Ottawa is the distinct intimate but unintimidating vibe. The radio was softly playing, a wireless charger waited for my perpetually exhausted cell phone, wifi was complimentary, and contrary to your average hotel stay – the bathroom was huge. A large walk-in shower, floating vanity, and private water closet result in a spa-like feel without me having to book an appointment anywhere. I love this about Le Germain hotels. I’ve stayed at their Montreal location as well and appreciated their understanding that a beautiful bathroom with a large shower is an extra indulgence.
Crisp housecoats and slippers stand at the ready but to be honest, I fell in love with the plush wool braided rugs and cloud-like sheets. I would have been happy running around naked. Which is normally something you only do at home, yes?
After an evening spent with dinner at a friend’s house nearby, we went for a little nightcap at Norca. I don’t know what inspired the interiors of this space but I absolutely love it. Intricately-carved lanterns floating overhead, butter-soft leather chairs that find you making any excuse to sit and stay awhile … it was just as it should be.
Our breakfast at Norca the next morning was just as charming. What I like are the thoughtful dividers that allow for cozy nooks of fun conversation with friends. We had the continental breakfast, almost caused a fire with the toaster, and then enjoyed a lovely laid-back morning. As with all our encounters, the staff at Norca was friendly and accommodating. We were especially pleased they had no trouble finding alternative dietary options for our gluten-free guest who joined us that morning.
If the nation’s capital is on your list of places to visit, I would definitely recommend a stay at Le Germain Ottawa. I think it is a fantastic, European-inspired boutique hotel that encourages urban exploration as much as it does a good cocooning sesh. I don’t know of any other locale that does this except my very own home.
Thank you Le Germain Ottawa for giving me the opportunity to experience your first class service, amenities, and restaurants in exchange for this review.
Want to make a reso? Find Le Germain Ottawa here and here.
As always, thanks for reading xx
