Recent renovations add modern luxuries to this iconic Fairmont-managed resort

By Rose Filice

The historic “Pink Palace” perched on the harbour in Bermuda’s capital city of Hamilton has been an urban oasis since it first welcomed guests in 1885. With the recent completion of a three-year, $100-million renovation, modernized amenities and lavish enhancements have upped the luxe factor of this iconic hotel that is a favourite of business and incentive travellers alike.

More than 157 of the hotel’s 400+ well-appointed guestrooms and suites have been refreshed with elegant and timeless island decor, offering unparalleled views of the city or waterfront. The Fairmont Gold private wing has been completely renovated, with contemporary furniture and fixtures adorning the Fairmont Gold suites, and a luxurious new private lounge that features a 1,600 sq.-ft. terrace with stellar views and exclusive niceties that enhance the experience, including the use of complimentary laptops and iPads, a library, honour bar, canapés during cocktail hour and homemade petits fours for an after-dinner treat.

Hotel guests can retreat to Exhale for a full mind and body wellness indulgence. Overlooking the harbour, the stunning new 8,200-sq.-ft. spa and fitness centre offers plenty of choice for the active traveller with its yoga pavilion next to the renovated lap pool, state-of-the-art Technogym fitness equipment, and cardio, Pilates and barre classes, while a Zen Lounge and full spa menu of restorative therapies round out the experience.

Superyachts to pleasure crafts and everything in between can be seen docked right outside at the new 60-berth marina and guest excursions can be organized at the Princess Marina’s watersports complex, including deep-sea fishing and private boat charters, snorkeling, paddle boarding and Jet Ski tours. A new infinity pool with cabanas for lounging looks out over the harbour, and guests who prefer the ocean can take the jitney to the nearby Hamilton Princess Beach Club, a private cove on South Beach, to enjoy a day of paddle boarding, snorkeling, kayaking and playing tennis, or just lounging in the water hammocks, sipping a Dark ‘n’ Stormy, the official cocktail of Bermuda. The Beach Club is also available for private events for up to 700 guests.

Four exceptional dining options will have your group indulging in local island flavours. As Bermuda’s only celebrity-helmed resto, Marcus’ offers fine-dining with from acclaimed Chef Marcus Samuelsson, boasting an open kitchen, wood-burning grill, gorgeous ocean views and a private dining space for up to 40 guests. A lighter menu is served from Marcus’ on the Beach at the Beach Club during the warmer seasons. The reimagined and rebranded Crown & Anchor Bar, Restaurant and Terrace offers an upscale lounge experience with live music and gourmet comfort food, and a seafood-forward menu is served at the stunning, open-air 1609 Bar & Restaurant on the harbourfront that can accommodate 150.

With more than 22,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space indoors and outside, including 6 function rooms, this hotel is the ideal space for large conferences. Receptions for up 1,000 can be hosted in the light-filled Harbourview Ballroom, with its breathtaking views from floor-to-ceiling windows. A new 2,000-sq.-ft. terrace with waterfront views was added to the Trudeau Ballroom—named after Pierre, this elegant venue with grand columns and sparkling chandeliers is a great choice for formal dinners for up to 150.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating elements that is unique to the Hamilton Princess is its incredible art collection. Artwork and sculpture from some of the most notable names in contemporary art, including Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, KAWS and Banksy, are found throughout the hotel, from the lobby and courtyards to the restaurants and event spaces. Guided tours are offered weekly, or the concierge can organize a private tour for groups. thehamiltonprincess.com