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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. (See links to our other Lake Erie reviews below) An interesting historyThe 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.
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.
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.
This small elegant hotel surpasses its legendary reputation for accommodation and cuisine. We recommend it highly.
Check out the Idlewyld Inn
website for more information about the hotel and its amenities, and a brief description of things to do in London.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.Become a subscriber to this column by clicking on the “Subscribe” button under the byline photo. You will be notified by brief email when a new Great Destinations Travel Examiners column is published. Click here for a complete list of their Examiner articles.
Comments
Wow. My mother lived there in the 60's and the building bones are still the same. Will go back. Great memories. Thanks.
Passed London driving from Detroit to Buffalo, but never stopped. I will next time!
What a wonderful hotel. Charm and sophistication. Would love to visit there someday.
I am amazed that you find these places. So many of your selections are different and most interesting. You should call them Great Destinations Off the Beaten Path. Keep em comin.
Great photos of an elegant mansion. All boutique hotels should have this class. Thanks for sharing.
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