The worldwide chain of Four Seasons luxury hotels began in Toronto in 1961, with the construction of a motor inn that was later demolished to make way for townhouses. And while the chain continued to maintain a downtown Toronto hotel presence by buying and renovating a former Hyatt Regency property, the city is finally about to welcome a full-fledged Four Seasons to rival the five-star accommodations found elsewhere.

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels

In October 2012, the Four Seasons Toronto will open in glamorous Bloor-Yorkville, a neighbourhood befitting the brand’s elite reputation. The 55-storey hotel/residence structure will include 259 spacious rooms, including 42 suites. Furnishings will be modern, and floor-to-ceiling windows will stream sunlight in and offer guests views of the shops, restaurants and nightlife the neighbourhood is famous for. Granite bathrooms with deep soaker tubs will soothe those tired from a day of exploring the city. Even children can relax in style, with welcome surprises at check-in and child-sized plush bathrobes.

Amenities will include a 30,000-square-foot spa, a fitness centre for those who like to keep active while they travel and an indoor lap pool on the ninth floor, where guests can relax with flavoured water and fresh fruit. And international travellers and Toronto foodies alike will be able to enjoy cuisine from international superstar chef Daniel Boulud, who will open Café Boulud and dbar in the hotel.