The saying “You can’t rush something you want to last forever” couldn’t be more à propos when referring to the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa project. Originally built in the mid-1850s and rescued from bankruptcy by Pearle Hospitality in 2010, this iconic landmark has just undergone the most exciting transformation in its long and fascinating history. And it’s just getting started.
Elora is a picturesque village 20 kilometres north of Guelph and 20 kilometres northeast of Kitchener-Waterloo. A popular tourist attraction thanks to its stunning naturescape, trails and artisan shops, the long missing element of this day-trip destination spot was a hub – a place that could tie together the beauty and welcoming spirit of the community.
Enter Aaron Ciancone. He, like many others, had fond memories of time spent in Elora but felt new life needed to be breathed back into it. When his bid for the deteriorated site proved successful, a vision was born to rescue, renovate and reinvent. The first of two development phases would be dedicated to creating a hotel, restaurant and event space on the north side of the Grand River. The second phase would focus on condominiums and a retail village.
At long last, after years of expert planning and meticulous execution, the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa fully opened its doors on Friday July 6th, 2018 to elated team members and guests. Centre Wellington Mayor Kelly Linton was on hand for the ribbon cutting the day prior, where dignitaries and long-time supporters rejoiced in the project’s completion. “You’ve worked hard with our staff, you’ve worked hard with Heritage Centre Wellington, you’ve worked hard with the BIA, you’ve worked hard with other stakeholders to ensure that the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa is part of this town and that’s commendable,” Linton said.
In addition to committing to environmental sustainability via a new hydro turbine, Pearle Hospitality has also been applauded for including local craftsmen, artists, farmers and purveyors in every aspect of the project, an incredible boost for the economic prospects for new tourism in the region.
The hotel, restaurant, Penstock Lounge and Stable Spa received an overwhelming response from community members and out of town guests who have been following the journey for years. Wedding day visions have also been brought to life by couples who are still gushing over the Foundry and Streamside Chapels, as well as the Irvine and Grand Rooms within the Granary.
Unparalleled views, locally-inspired cuisine, incredible service and suites that will tempt you to never leave are only the beginning at Elora Mill Hotel & Spa. It is truly a guest haven like no other. For more information, visit eloramill.ca.
