Historic Hospitality Abounds at the Hume Hotel

The Hume Hotel rightly markets itself as “Antique, Chic, Boutique”. To that I would add it also offers the “Peak” of service and dining.

For over a century the stately hotel has been providing visitors with a refined stay in the heart of Nelson. Constructed in 1898, the hotel celebrates its rich heritage while offering modern conveniences and amenities.

Like many small businesses in Nelson, the Hume Hotel is a family labour of love. General Manager, Ryan Martin has taken over the reigns from his parents and is steering the hotel through its most ambitious renovations in decades.

“The vision was to create a feeling of authentic nostalgia and history while incorporating modern conveniences without looking like a typical hotel renovation you see everywhere you go” said Martin. “It’s a fresh new outlook while paying homage to our storied history. From the customer feedback we have received, I do believe we have pulled off this fine balance beautifully.”

The hard work is evident. You can feel the character and warmth of the hotel the moment you walk in the front door. The reception is genuinely friendly, building on a tradition as old as the charming key box behind the front desk (picture the lobby from the movie Grand Budapest Hotel and you’ll get the idea).

A variety of on-site restaurants offer a distinctive dining experience. “The great thing about this hotel is that you have one incredibly large menu that has something for everyone coupled with three different eating establishments to choose from.  One environment is family friendly, one is more intimate with weekly live jazz and the other is more casual pub style” noted Martin.

Mike’s Place Pub is a local institution. With all sorts of thoughtfully curated memorabilia and design touches, a walk through the pub is a bit like strolling through Nelson’s past. Dishes range from fresh fish tacos to AAA steaks, putting it firmly in gastropub territory. Plus, the close relationship with the beloved Nelson Brewing Company means that it’s almost like a brewpub onsite. A wide range of their beers is on tap, and word is that limited releases from NBC will be available exclusively at Mike’s Place too.

The unique parlour-like atmosphere of the Library Lounge is oozing with character. Brass fixtures and accents, a polished wood bar, and draped ceilings are just some of the historic touches that make this a truly unique experience. It’s also the only venue in town with regular live jazz.

The family-friendly General Store restaurant is a go-to destination for any meal. A full breakfast is served here and included for overnight guests (think Eggs Benny, not pop-tarts). Featuring legendary Oso Negro coffee is just one of the ways that the Hume keeps things local. Weekly specials, Sunday brunch, and Prime Rib dinner are some of the other treats you can expect.

Live music and events are often featured at Spiritbar, Nelson’s premiere entertainment venue. Located in the lower level of the Hume Hotel, it’s a spacious and contemporary spot that has hosted acts you’d expect to find in major urban centres.

And if you want to relax and pamper yourself, the recently opened Aura Spa on the second level is the place to go. Reflecting the boutique charm of the hotel, the stylish spa is eco-friendly and offers expert therapists. Plus, the spa just received a liquor license. “Enjoying a cocktail or two while you receive a treatment will no doubt be one of the distinguishing factors of the spa” said Martin.

Rounding off the full-service hotel is an on-site liquor store. Although it may be small in size, the selection of fine wines, craft beers and premium spirits is carefully stocked.

If hotel fusion exists, this is it. Blending the best of heritage charm with modern comforts, the Hume Hotel is well poised to continue delivering legendary hospitality to guests.

By John Bowden