Saint Andrews' Crown Jewel
Located in the quaint town of Saint Andrews, New Brunswick, The Algonquin Resort stands as a testament to architectural beauty and historical richness. Opening its doors in June 1889, this Canadian coastal resort hotel is a symbol of elegance and tradition. Owned by Charlotte County Hospitality Partnership and managed by New Castle Hotels & Resorts, the resort's striking Tudor Revival style makes it one of New Brunswick's most iconic and photographed landmarks.
The original Algonquin hotel in NB, a large wooden Shingle Style building, was constructed in 1889. Despite a devastating fire in 1914 that engulfed all but two wings, the hotel was reborn on the same site. Today's structure, a majestic four-story Tudor Revival building with a faux half-timbered façade and red slate roof, echoes the grandeur of its past. The resort continued to expand in the early 1990s and 2010s, adding modern amenities while preserving its historic charm.
A unique feature of the original hotel was its saltwater baths, drawing water from the nearby Passamaquoddy Bay. These baths, along with the healing air of the Bay of Fundy and the local "Samson Spring," attracted visitors seeking both relaxation and health benefits.
The Algonquin's connection to the New Brunswick Railway and key figures like George Stephen and William Cornelius Van Horne played a pivotal role in its development. After being acquired by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in 1903, the resort became a part of their prestigious hotel chain. The 20th century saw the Algonquin flourishing, with guests arriving mainly via the rail network.
Ownership transitions in the latter half of the 20th century led to the resort's lease and eventual purchase by the Government of New Brunswick. In 2012, a significant change occurred when the hotel was sold to New Castle Hotels and Resorts and Southwest Properties. Following extensive renovations, it reopened in 2013 as part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, marking its entry as the first Canadian hotel in this exclusive collection.
The Algonquin Resort's guest list reads like a who's who of historical figures, hosting U.S. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Lyndon B. Johnson, British Royals HRH Prince Charles, Diana, Princess of Wales, Canadian Prime Minister John A. Macdonald, and nearly every Canadian Prime Minister since Confederation. With 233 rooms and three restaurants, the resort today stands not just as a hotel but as a piece of living history, offering a blend of luxurious accommodation and a window into Canada's rich past. The Algonquin in NB, with its storied history and timeless elegance, remains a cherished destination for travelers worldwide. Book your stay today.
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