The Top 10 Resort Hotels in Canada in 2021

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite resorts in Canada.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

Canada has some of the most pristine natural environments on the planet, from the tranquil Great Bear Rainforest, at the country's western edge, to the rugged Torngat Mountains in the easternmost province of Labrador. It's no wonder the nation's best resort hotels are found in these stunning outdoor settings. Visitors flock to these special properties (three of which are ski resorts) for incredible wildlife encounters and time in nature — and, of course, their elevated dining and design, plus all the discreet luxury and amenities guests expect.

Manoir Hovey
Courtesy of Manoir Hovey

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

Of the 10 Canadian resorts, six were located in the western provinces of Alberta and British Columbia; on the country's eastern side, Quebec is home to three of the top resorts. Many properties were repeat winners, including No. 6 Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which one reader called "a bucket-list destination because it delivers something magical, no matter the season."

Another returning favorite? No. 3 Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland. Just getting to this "island within an island," as one reader called it, is an adventure that many guests are more than up for. "The perfect destination for reconnecting to nature and self," said one voter. "Though remote, it provides all of the creature comforts that anyone could want or need," said another.

In British Columbia, the No. 2 Wickaninnish Inn is a perennial favorite for its indulgent spa services as well as the amazing views of the Pacific Ocean from the guest rooms. "We watched storms roll in and enjoyed every minute of our stay," recalled one visitor.

But it was a boutique property in Quebec that captured this year's top spot. Read on to find out why Manoir Harvey won over voters and was named No. 1 among the best resorts in Canada.

1. Manoir Hovey, North Hatley, Quebec

Manoir Hovey
Courtesy of Manoir Hovey

This rustic lakeside estate in the village of North Hatley is just 20 miles from the U.S. border, but it fully embraces the cozy Canadian lifestyle, complete with fireplaces, a library, and suites that have canopy beds and balconies with scenic views of the surrounding woods. A Relais & Châteaux property with just 37 rooms, Manoir Hovey impressed T+L readers with its impeccable service, privacy, and seclusion. (The resort is even fit for a former first couple: the Clintons stayed there in 2017.) The restaurant, Le Hatley, which focuses on Québécois cuisine, was also a factor in its success.

Score: 98.48
More information: manoirhovey.com

2. The Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, British Columbia

The Wickaninnish Inn
Courtesy of The Wickaninnish Inn

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 97.00
More information: wickinn.com

3. Fogo Island Inn, Fogo Island, Newfoundland

Fogo Island Inn
Alex Fradkin/Courtesy of Fogo Island Inn

Score: 96.60
More information: fogoislandinn.ca

4. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler, British Columbia

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler
Courtesy of Four Seasons

Score: 95.55
More information: fourseasons.com

5. Post Hotel & Spa, Lake Louise, Alberta

Post Hotel & Spa
Courtesy of Post Hotel & Spa

Score: 94.33
More information: posthotel.com

6. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Courtesy of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Score: 92.83
More information: fairmont.com

7. Fairmont Le Château Montebello, Montebello, Quebec

Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello
Courtesy of Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello

Score: 90.77
More information: fairmont.com

8. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler, British Columbia

Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Courtesy of Fairmont Chateau Whistler

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 90.29
More information: fairmont.com

9. The Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Alberta

Fairmont Banff Springs
Courtesy of Fairmont Banff Springs

Score: 89.91
More information: fairmont.com

10. Fairmont Tremblant, Mont Tremblant, Quebec

Fairmont Tremblant
Courtesy of Fairmont Tremblant

Score: 87.57
More information: fairmont.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021.

Related Articles