The Royal Hotel is more than just a place to sleep, it’s a gateway to the past and a place to celebrate the present.

Located in downtown Chilliwack, the Royal Hotel stands on record as on of the Fraser Valley’s iconic gems that has been an integral part of the Chilliwack cityscape since it was built over 100 years ago.

Fifty-five years ago flames erupted when the Royal Hotel was hit by a lightning strike.

For those looking for ultra modern and sleek accommodations with high-tech bells and whistles, this might not be the spot to hang your hat.

In 1908, local hotelier D.S. Dundas established the Royal Hotel, Chilliwack’s finest hotel to date, designed in a style that blended European refinement with utilitarian convenience.

However, if you’re looking for a hotel steeped in romance and history – one that will transport you back in time to 1908, when horse carriages cantered down dirt roads and steamboats were the primary means of travel, make sure to put this local getaway on your staycation bucket list.

Recently, I brought Molly, Zoe and my mom to the hotel for a girls’ local getaway in Chilliwack.

While Chilliwack is just a 45-minute drive from home (Langley), the picturesque rural scenery and laid-back vibe of the community makes for a nice change of pace.

We have experienced Chilliwack/Cultus Lake via tenting numerous times in the past, but this was our first time staying right in town. Our mission was to explore some of the area’s hidden gems and hotspots, including the Royal Hotel.

Stepping inside the museum(esque) lobby, we realized we were about to embark on an exciting experience overnight – one that would take us back in time.

Thousands of guests have strolled these halls over the last century. It reminded us of the eerie flick ‘The Shining.’

Our antique two-room suite was small in size (around 300 square feet), which is typical of historic hotels, but big in character and authentic details.

Antique Rooms preserve many of the original features of the 1908 heritage property, including beautifully finished hardwood floors, clawfoot tubs, antique furniture and period decor. These heritage appointments are complemented by modern comforts like air conditioning, private bathrooms and cable.

Inside was a private bedroom with one queen bed, private bath (with shower only) and separate cozy living area with queen sized hide-a-bed sofa, microwave, small fridge and eating area, LCD TV. This suite is furnished with vintage furnishings and features re-finished wood floors, doors and trim.

Unique shops and dining options are just steps away from The Royal Hotel.

For those in the mood for a romantic getaway, perhaps for a honeymoon or anniversary, make sure to book the Royal Jacuzzi Suite.

There are two dining options onsite for guests and visitors to the hotel — the Royal Hotel Cafe and the Wellington Gastropub.

Serving up good old-fashioned home cooking with an international flair, the Royal Hotel Café is known as one of the city’s best values for hearty, healthy meals. The diverse menu features items for breakfast, lunch and dinner with everything from enchiladas to Fiji-style rice bowls. We tried the soup of the day, borscht, which was a hit with everyone at our table.

The Wellington Gastropub

Valley Mom