A Legacy Forged in Time
The Beginning
It all started with Magnus Krytharven, a Norwegian blacksmith who sailed halfway 'round the world looking for a fresh start. He set up his forge right here on Heritage Boulevard, hammering out tools and ironwork for Victoria's growing community. The guy was a perfectionist - every hinge, every gate had his personal touch on it.
Expansion & Transformation
Magnus's daughter Ingrid took over and saw something different in the old forge. She converted the upper floors into rooms for travelers - mostly folks coming through on logging or mining business. Word got around about her hospitality, and honestly, her cooking didn't hurt either. The place became known for treating guests like family, not transactions.
Golden Era
The roaring twenties brought serious upgrades. We added that gorgeous Art Deco entrance you see today and expanded to 40 rooms. The craftsmanship standards? Still ridiculously high. Every door handle, light fixture, and piece of trim was custom-made on-site. That's the Krytharven way - if you're gonna do something, do it right or don't bother.
Heritage Designation
Got officially recognized as a heritage building, which was cool but also meant we couldn't just slap vinyl siding on everything when stuff needed fixing. Had to restore things the old-fashioned way - which, looking back, kept us honest to what this place has always been about. Modern conveniences, sure, but never at the expense of character.
Modern Renaissance
Completed our biggest renovation yet - added the spa, upgraded all the rooms with proper tech and comfort, expanded the restaurant. But here's the thing: we kept the soul intact. You'll still find Magnus's original forge tools displayed in the lobby, and we've got a full-time artisan blacksmith who runs workshops for guests. Can't shake our roots, and honestly, why would we want to?
What We're About Today
Luxury That Actually Makes Sense
Yeah, our suites are gorgeous, but they're also practical. High-thread-count sheets that you can actually sleep in, blackout curtains that work, and bathrooms with water pressure that doesn't make you sad. We've got 38 rooms, each one different because cookie-cutter isn't our style.
Restaurant & Bar Worth Leaving Your Room For
Our chef sources locally because it's better, not because it's trendy. The bar's got craft cocktails and a whisky collection that'll make you wanna take your time. The dining room's in the original forge space - exposed brick, timber beams, the whole nine yards.
Conference Spaces That Don't Suck
Ever been to a corporate event in a soulless conference room? Not here. Our event spaces have character - original woodwork, natural light, and tech that actually works when you need it to. Weddings, business meetings, whatever you're planning, we'll make it memorable.
Spa Where You Can Actually Relax
No weird new-age music or trying too hard. Just professional treatments in a calm environment. Massage therapists who know what they're doing, facials that don't require a second mortgage, and a sauna that'll sort you out after a long day exploring Victoria.
Concierge Who Actually Helps
Our team knows Victoria inside and out - the tourist spots, sure, but also the local joints where residents actually go. Need dinner reservations? Got it. Want to find that obscure bookshop? They'll draw you a map. They genuinely give a damn about making your stay better.
The Little Things That Matter
Fast Wi-Fi throughout because slow internet in 2025 is inexcusable. Business center that's open 24/7 for those late-night deadlines. Complimentary coffee that's actually good, not that sad conference-quality stuff. It's the details that make the difference.
Recognition & Stuff We're Proud Of
Historic Hotels of Canada - Gold Member
Since 2015 - They get what we're trying to do here
TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award
2022, 2023, 2024 - Real guests, real reviews
BC Restaurant Awards - Best Hotel Dining
2023 - Our chef nearly cried when we won this one
Green Key Eco-Rating - Level 4
Sustainability matters, even in historic buildings
Canada's Best Small Business Hotels
2024 - Because business travel shouldn't be boring