I love Toronto.
As someone who has called Toronto home for a number of years, I’m asked quite often where I would recommend to stay in the city, but in fact, up until a few weeks ago I had never actually stayed in any of Toronto’s hotels and other accommodation.
A few months prior I attended an event at the beautiful Hôtel Le Germain Maple Leaf Square and was instantly a fan. So, when I recently found myself needing a place to rest my head for a few days I had an idea: why not play tourist in my own city and stay at my new hotel find.
I got in touch with the team at Groupe Germain and they excitingly invited me to stay with them for 4 miraculous nights.
From the tour I had taken of the property during my first visit earlier in the year, my anticipation and excitement was high.
Le Germain boutique-hotels, with locations in Quebec, Montreal, Toronto, & Calgary, offer something truly special to their guests that they won’t find at other hotels in their respective cities with each location presenting a unique touch and style.
The Toronto-Maple Leaf Square location for example has a sophisticated athletic theme playing to its proximity to Toronto’s major sports venues.
Their motto is that it’s all in the detail, and I couldn’t agree more. From the music playing in your room when you enter, to the apples in the hallway, and the glasses with your room number on them, every detail was obviously thought out; a welcomed change from the cookie cutter design of some other hotels.
Now, before I go on gushing about all things Hôtel Le Germain Maple Leaf Square, please watch the video below to get a visual sense of the hotel’s look and feel.
Stunning right?
Now, let’s break it down shall we?
Rooms: I cannot say enough about the 167 rooms at this hotel. The bed feels like a cloud, the shower is gorgeous, most have a spectacular view of the CN Tower, and they are more than spacious with brilliant exposed cement walls and modern decor. Details like the sheer and room darkening blinds, iPhone compatible stereo, goose down pillows and comforters, nightly turn-down service with chocolate and morning paper give it that extra touch of special. The artwork by Matthew Plexman featuring different Toronto athletes offered a unique touch I’ve never seen in a hotel room before. A special mention must go to the system of requesting to have your room cleaned or for privacy. Rather than the messy “hang a tag on the door handle and hope someone doesn’t switch it in the night” method, a button right next to the bed activates a red or green light just outside your door, notifying cleaning staff of your current preference. Again, it’s all in the details.
Service: From the moment I arrived to when I left, the staff was consistently welcoming and accommodating. Each and every person I encountered ensured my stay was nothing but wonderful.
Location: Though a bit more on the southern end of the downtown core than I originally thought was ideal, my opinion was swayed. The hotel is a perfect launch point for exploring Toronto. The Harbourfront, Distillery District, sports arenas, CN Tower and entertainment district are all within walking distance. You’ll also find Union Station just a few steps away, which allows you to venture further by simply by hopping on the subway or streetcar. Getting there is easy also, whether you’re flying into the Island Airport and taking the shuttle which drops a block away, or arriving via Pearson International and Union Station.
Breakfast: Each stay includes a deluxe continental breakfast. Fruit, warm pastries, cheese, meats, coffee, eggs, the works. Don’t miss the croissants, they are divine. The serving hours are long enough that you do not need to be up at the crack of dawn and will never find a crowed, but it’s so delicious you won’t have any challenge getting out of bed.
Dining & Drinks: Toronto is packed full of different foods from all over the world so that should always be a part of your visit to the city. However, if you’re short for time or not looking to venture far, there are plenty of dining options within walking distance of the hotel. Next to the hotel lobby you’ll find the PLAY Lounge, with a good happy hour scene. It’s a relaxing, yet classy spot to sit and enjoy a drink before heading out for the evening or to wrap up a long day exploring the city.
Amenities: In the hotel you will find a 24hr gym, relaxation lounge, room service valet and more. If you are considering visiting with your company, they offer meeting and conference rooms. Pets are also welcome.
Price: At the time of writing, base rooms averaged around $250/night with the option of upgrading to executive and apartment suites. These rates are competitive with other hotels in the area and excellent value by comparison.
WiFi: The hotel has complimentary wifi throughout with a very strong signal. I found this a nice change from accommodations that typically charge an additional fee, and was on-point with their intent not to upcharge guests for appreciated convenience services. Guests will also find a computer with internet and a printer in the second floor lounge.
Final Thoughts:
I can do nothing but rave about my stay at Hôtel Le Germain Maple Leaf Square. No detail was left untouched, I felt like a king, was made to feel so welcome and most importantly, felt right at home. This is more than a boutique hotel, it is an experience.
Should you find yourself in Toronto, you will find two Le Germain properties in addition to the ALT Hotel located at Toronto Pearson Airport. Additionally, you will find locations in Quebec, Montreal, Calgary and other select cities across the country.
If you’d like to stay at Hôtel Le Germain Maple Leaf Square during your visit to Toronto you can book your stay here, or to learn more, you can connect with them below:
Website: http://germainmapleleafsquare.com
Twitter: @HotelGermain
Phone: 1.866.345.9501
Email: reservations@
Address: 75 Bremner Blvd, Toronto (Ontario) M5J 0A1
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone at Hôtel Le Germain Maple Leaf Square for making my stay so truly perfect and reaffirming why I fell in love with this hotel the first time I stepped inside. I look forward to visiting your other properties throughout the country and experiencing what makes each one of them distinctly unique and special.