The first Autograph Collection in Ontario, the Pearle Hotel & Spa, takes full advantage of the picturesque Lake Ontario waterfront in historic downtown Burlington.
Boasting two restaurants, an event space–the latest hotspot for weddings— as well as a state-of-the-art gym and luxury spa, the Pearle sounded like the ultimate urban retreat of my dreams.
Upon entering the towering lakeside beauty, I was greeted by the most elegant spiral staircase. Befitted with shimmering orb-like hanging lights, the hotel’s entrance was truly a sight to behold. With nods to coastal elegance and nautical accents throughout—an homage to the family’s matriarch, Grandma Pearle—the hotel seamlessly marries modern luxury with chic lake house-inspired decor.
Photo by Brittany Johnson
My room was every bit as bright and airy as I had hoped. Immediately, I was taken aback by the almost full wall of glass overlooking the lake and lovely large corner terrace. The terrace was certainly big enough to have a few friends join me for a beverage overlooking the water, which would be absolutely picturesque as the sun was setting or even in the morning over a lovely cup of tea.
With odes to the lake and subtle nautical accents, the king bed was large and luxurious. And, while hidden at first glance behind two large sliding doors, the bathroom was really what I wanted to write home about. With an immaculate stand-alone soaker tub as the striking centrepiece, the washroom truly took my breath away. Accompanied by two bright, modern vanities with a luxe oversized walk-in rain shower (big enough for two) as well as a separate sleek water closet. I contemplated how much time I could reasonably spend reading and sipping tea in this masterpiece of a bath. After deciding on forever, I knew I had an appointment to keep, so I ventured down to the much-talked-about spa.
Photo by Brittany Johnson
One of the main attractions of the Pearle is the hotel’s luxurious day spa. Featuring a traditional Hammam steam room befitted with the most exquisite blue tiling I have ever seen, the spa is truly an immersive experience from beginning to end. From the exquisitely plush slippers and robes to the facial that had my stress and jaw tension melt away, leaving me glowing for days after, their spa experience is one for the books.
Photo by Brittany Johnson
With breathtaking lake views, the hotel’s main restaurant, Isabelle’s, brings the upscale, urban energy to quiet downtown Burlington. With a Mediterranean meets Californian-inspired menu, I was tempted to sample one of everything…and practically did! Every dish was rich in flavour and substantially portioned. My culinary experience at Isabelle’s left me perfectly satiated and scanning my calendar for my next free evening to book a reservation.
It is no secret that what separates the great from the exceptional is all in the tiny details. The in-room custom-made “Pearle” Sloane tea flavours and sachets were one of my personal favourites. Elements easily and often overlooked can have a major impact on the overall experience, invigorating the senses. Going over and above expectations from the grande elements to the minute, the Pearle Hotel and Spa will have guests coming back for many years to come.
And after my stay, I will definitely be among them.