The Metcalfe

A capital experience

Whether it's business or leisure that takes you to Ottawa, a stay at the 4-star Metcalfe Hotel will position you in the heart of downtown within a short walk of the Parliament Buildings, Rideau Canal, and National Art Gallery. The 100-year-old stately red brick building, once home to the YMCA, was redesigned in 2022 as part of the Gray Collection, a Montreal-based, family-owned group of hotels. The result? A boutique property with 108 guest rooms and suites with a cool vibe that, through wooden beams and exposed brick walls, maintains the warmth and integrity of the heritage building.

Lobby Library

Although most of the guests are business travellers, on our weekend getaway, we were immediately at home in what feels more like an inviting living room than an impersonal hotel lobby. Natural light floods through a stunning, five-storey glass-encircled atrium. Little details lend a sense of home away from home – artwork by Ottawa artist Claudia Gutierrez, a profusion of plants, comfy leather sofas, vintage photos and a library wall, complete with rolling ladder, where guests are welcome to borrow books. Pets are also welcome. Between the living room and the curved bar that leads to Cocotte Bistro, several small café tables serve snack options and beverages throughout the day.

Cocotte Bistro

Our lofty, executive king room, simple, stylish and spacious, featured a light neutral colour palette with dark wood, straight-line furniture and a puffy duvet-topped bed. As you might expect, there's a fridge, minibar, safe and, best of all, stellar headboard-mounted reading lights. Bathroom décor features black and white slate and tile and a double walk-in spa shower with amenities by Santal 33.

Superior Suite

A worktable by a tall window offers a skyline perspective of life along the length of Metcalfe Street. With plugs exactly where plugs should be and a cushy, adjustable ergonomic chair, it's no wonder business travellers love to stay here. So did we.

Written by Anna Hobbs for Cruise and Travel Lifestyles (Spring/Summer 2025)