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| The main entrance of Azuridge |
Ever wonder what it's like to live in a big gorgeous mansion in the country? How about lounging around on an estate with its own private water tower/lookout, a secret skating rink, walking trails and a private chef to cook for you? Faster than you can say, "Sign me up!" - I was on a plane to Alberta last week for a fun getaway.
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| One of the many lounges at Azuridge |
I was lucky to be given this luxurious VIP treatment when I checked into Azuridge, a former estate (used for corporate entertaining) turned luxury boutique hotel in Priddis, Alberta. After landing in Calgary following a very fast 3.5 hour flight from Toronto, I was in my rental car and on my way to the hotel - just a 45-minute drive from Calgary. With the time change working in my favour, I had my feet propped up in the lounge and was sipping champagne next to a wood-burning fire by mid-afternoon. Not a bad introduction to Alberta, I say!
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| The water tower, guest building and grounds |
If you're flying to Calgary for work or for a vacation, consider a detour at Azuridge to start your trip off right. I decided to head there first so I could relax and unwind before heading into the city to do some more sightseeing and then off to Banff after that for some more relaxation. It's the perfect spot for a romantic weekend away or an extension to a trip to Calgary. The hotel also hosts small corporate retreats during the week and weddings throughout the summer.
Each one of the 13 guest suites are based on a gemstone colour with the idea that each gem is unique in energy. I checked into this gorgeous Signature Suite (above) which is decorated with accents of pink for the rhodochrosite gemstone - which is source of energy and is a symbol for stability and love.
This suite is the former master bedroom and boasts a huge walk-in closet, sweeping mountain views, a jacuzzi tub and curved art-glass shower. I was pretty much hanging out in the perfect honeymoon suite while lounging in my plush bathrobe and using all the complimentary Philosophy products in my room. Bonus moment? When I discovered the mini-bar filled with complimentary soda, juice, nuts, chocolate, popchips and snacks in case you're feeling peckish - and when am I not?
A complimentary coffee and tea bar is stocked for guests to use, complete with flavoured syrups and fresh fruit. The marble counter top was reclaimed from an old church and adds a unique piece of flare to the space. They really have thought of everything here and it is thanks to General Manager, Kristine Morrow who has brought years of experience in the hospitality industry to Azuridge.
Homemade biscotti beckons me for an afternoon snack
Floor-to-ceiling glass with a view of the great outdoors in the dining room
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| Clockwise from top left - roasted butternut squash soup with prawns, duck breast with starfruit, salmon with potatoes and green beans, apple sorbet with strawberries |
Executive Chef, Alois Multerer prepares dinner for his guests in an open concept kitchen where you can sit and watch him work. I was spoiled by the meal he served us above. Alois is a really fun character to chat with and I encourage you to ask him for a reading on your native sign. Not only is he a great cook, but he was spot on with my after-dinner reading (I'm an owl).
After dinner, I chose a fragrance from the 'Hydrotherapy Bath Menu' and my butler filled my Jacuzzi tub with eucalyptus oil and bath salts while he lit all the candles in the bathroom. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of traveling and I slept like a baby in my plush king-size bed with Frette linens.
Butler service is available to all guests of Azuridge and he will unpack your bags, arrange your meals, book massages and handle any special requests. I had forgotten my laptop charger upon check-out and a member of the Azuridge staff was kind enough to drop it off in Calgary for me. The service really is above and beyond. I woke up the next morning to a tray of breakfast in bed with a carafe of hot coffee and fresh fruit.
I only wished I lived closer or that I wasn't already married - I would SO do-over my wedding at this 27,000 square foot estate. Azuridge is perfect for a romantic getaway, a family reunion or wedding. Make sure to visit next time you're in Calgary!
Azuridge
178057 - 272 Street West
Priddis, Alberta
Canada
(403) 931-0100
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