How To Have A Luxury Family Stay In Toronto: The Ritz

Every once in a while there are milestones in life that need to be celebrated.  One of those occasions we could not allow to pass without the biggest of pomp and circumstance was that of my Mother’s 70th Birthday.  How does one celebrate such a birthday?  By whisking her away to Toronto for a stay at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, and by bringing the grandkids to add a little sass to our adventure.

After a two hour drive that included a copious amounts of snacks, one Disney movie and only one wrong turn, we arrived at our destination; The Ritz –Carlton, Toronto.

The Ritz-Carlton Toronto is located at 181 Wellington Street West, in the heart of Toronto, Ontario.  The location is ideal for those looking to take in the sites, do some shopping or take advantage of some of the cities world class restaurants. 

This distinctive downtown Toronto hotel features:

• The only Spa My Blend by Clarins outside of Paris 
• A specially-commissioned collection of over 400 pieces of original Canadian art 
• The largest luxury ballroom in Toronto with 7,400 square feet  
• Dramatic views of the CN Tower, Lake Ontario, and downtown Toronto skyline 
• The Ritz-Carlton Club® Level with continuous complimentary culinary offerings throughout the day (breakfast, light snacks, hors d’ oeuvres, alcoholic beverages and sweets) 
• 24-hour fitness centre with Innovative Fitness personal trainers, salt water pool and jacuzzi 
• Toronto dining options include, TOCA Restaurant, Ritz Bar and DEQ Terrace & Lounge

 

When we arrived, our car was expertly whisked away by the attentive valet.

Assistance was provided to get our stroller in working order.  Lots of assistance, without even asking for it.   The staff at the Ritz Carlton were always ready to help.

We entered the contemporary and stunning lobby and as we checked in, were greeted by chilled flutes of champagne. 

The little one in our group was already enamoured with The Ritz-Carlton Toronto, having found himself a brand new ride!  Waiting in the lobby for the smaller set were three glamorous Mercedes’s Benz pedal cars the young one’s were welcome to enjoy at their leisure. 

Tearing my SassyNephew away from his new favourite thing in life, we made our way up to our rooms.  Connecting suites we would call home for the weekend.

As we entered our suites we were met with some beautiful surprises, a hand written note welcoming us to the hotel, macaroons, gorgeous flowers both from Floraville and the Ritz , fresh fruit, and warm chocolate chip cookies.  An incredible way to kick off the weekend. 

 

Our first room was 450 square feet,contained a King Size Bed, a beautiful view of Lake Ontario as well as the iconic CN Tower.  The bedding was sublime.  A little investigation revealing each bed at the Ritz-Carlton Toronto is covered in Handcrafted Italian 400-thread-count Frette bed linens.  Perfection. 

A rollaway bed was added to our room without making it feel cramped, and without additional charge.  The room also was equipped with a 42" LCD Flat Panel HD television with DVD player and a Bose Radio/CD/iPod sound system.  Quite simply, it was a beautiful suite.

Separating the bed and bath was the mini bar and oversized closet. 

Hidden underneath the mini bar is an electronic safe big enough to lock up your valuables and lap top.

The ensuite bath room spoiled with a large marble bathtub and separate rain-shower.  The room was adorned with double sinks, heated floors throughout and an In-Mirror Bathroom flat-panel Television that makes you want to stay in the bath for hours. 

Our second, and connecting room, comprised of two queen beds and was also spacious and luxuriously appointed.  

There was plenty of room for the crib we required, and the additional bag of baby products provided for our smallest guest was very much appreciated. 

The views from the large windows both day and night were truly picture worthy. 

When we explored the hotel we walked through to the spotless pool area just waiting for guests to jump in and enjoy a swim.

 

Each time we ventured through the modern lobby, a new surprise awaited.  From a Cheese Tasting set up for mid afternoon, to a Candy Bar to indulge in!  A delightful surprise following a long afternoon of touring the city.  Especially when travelling with your children!

Need to escape the city while you are in Toronto?  Look no further than the DEQ Terrace Lounge.  An urban oasis that with view of Simcoe Park and the CN Tower.  Perhaps the perfect place for a night cap after a glorious day in the city.

Everywhere we turned the Ritz-Carlton staff could be seen, doing all they could to make our stays just a little bit brighter, the smallest bit more luxurious, and to spoil us a little bit more.  They greeted us by name and even wished my Mother a Happy 70th Birthday as we drove off back to the suburbs.  The staff take care, go beyond, and make me want to return with my family as soon as possible.  If you are looking for a luxury stay with or without your children, I highly recommend the Ritz-Carlton Toronto.  My only regret, that we had to leave so soon. 

Thanks to the Ritz-Carlton Toronto for accommodating our stay to allow for this review,  As always opinions expressed on this blog are my own.