Today's review is of the historic Idlewyld Inn in the thriving Canadian city of London, Ontario.

We discovered this historic hotel last October while making plans to circumnavigate Lake Erie by automobile. Our intention was to do some “leaf peeping” and enjoy the splendid array of fall colors.

During our travels, we spent time with Americans on the south shore of Lake Erie, and Canadians on the north shore, and were constantly reminded why these two great countries are such wonderful neighbors.

The primary purpose of our journey back east was to cover the annual Somewhere in Time weekend at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.

While we were there, we also wanted to see what neighboring Lake Erie had to offer by way of fun vacation activities and lodging accommodations. Our trip was a success and we found many delightful destinations all around the lake.

An interesting history

The Idlewyld Inn is an impressive and imposing mansion set alongside a quiet neighborhood street near downtown London.

The building was constructed in 1878 as the private residence of Charles Smith Hyman. Mr. Hyman was the mayor of London as well as a Canadian cabinet minister. He was also a famous sports figure who won the Canadian men's single tennis championship seven times. In addition, urban legend has it that Mr. Hyman was the person responsible for introducing the game of bridge to Canada - perhaps in the very parlor of what is now the Idlewyld Inn.

In the 1930s, the mansion was transformed into fashionable apartments. In the 1960s, it became a home for the elderly. It took on its present persona as a luxury boutique hotel in 1986. The new hotel was quickly awarded CAA (AAA) four-diamond status - a distinction it retains to this day.

This was our first visit to the Idlewyld Inn.

Guests enter the Inn through a set of original 19th century leaded-glass paneled doors. Just past the Tiffany like doors is a meticulously preserved foyer that can best be described as Victorian turn of the century elegant.

Immediately to the left of the foyer’s European style welcome desk is a carpeted wooden staircase leading to twenty-three individually decorated guestrooms and suites. Further to the left is a grand parlor and comfortable sitting room - both appointed with splendid woods and period antiques that emanate old world charm.

The Inn's main dining area is to the right of the entrance. The eating rooms are sophisticated, but not ostentatious. They are tastefully decorated in tans and browns and the plush upholstered chairs are instantly inviting.

Guestrooms worthy of a great hotel

Our bags were waiting for us when we unlatched the door to our large second floor room. High ceilings added to the drama of windows with shutters that recessed into the wooden walls.

The space was expansive by contemporary standards and decorated with just the right amount of period furniture. The room was also complete with all the modern amenities necessary for that quintessential touch of relaxation - a plasma TV, computer wireless, and a stylish private bath.

Dinner was a memorable event

Dining at the Idlewyld was a special treat that excited and delighted our palates. The food was world-class sumptuous, the wine list exemplary, and the service impeccable.

We followed the recommendation of the chef, and chose the filet mignon for our main course. It might have been the finest beef fillet we had ever tasted - simply magnificent.

This small elegant hotel surpasses its legendary reputation for accommodation and cuisine. We recommend it highly.

Check out the Idlewyld Inn website at http://idlewyldinn.com/ for more information about the hotel and its amenities, and a brief description of things to do in London.

Speaking of things to do – for those who enjoy the professional stage, the Inn is very close to the artistic heart of London – the Grand Theatre. This historic theatre has played to enthusiastic audiences since 1901.

If you go

London is Canada's tenth largest city, and is located in west-central Ontario at the junction of Highways 401 and 402. Its airport is London International (YXU) and there is good air service to major cities such as Calgary, Chicago, Detroit, Edmonton, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, and Winnipeg.

You can find more information about activities and upcoming events in London by contacting London Tourism at http://www.londontourism.ca/

© Travels with Wayne and Judy (syndicated)
Photos © Wayne and Judy Bayliff