December 24, 2018

The Josie – Rossland’s Latest Gold Rush

Driving through Kootenay Pass in the midst of a snowfall can be quite a challenge, but that’s par for the course on the Powder Highway. On this particular day, luck was on our side, and we encountered no delays or incidents during our drive from Fernie. I was en route to Rossland for the opening weekend at Red Mountain with my 15-year-old son, Nathan. I knew this trip would be exceptional; there’s a special magic to resort openings, and we were booked at the new Josie hotel for an extended weekend getaway. Nathan, however, had not been following the creation of The Josie and had no prior knowledge or expectations about Rossland’s latest Gold Rush!

Rossland’s first Gold Rush began in 1890, causing the town’s population to explode as gold fever attracted people from all over the world. Rossland grew to become one of the largest cities in Western Canada and a major business center in North America. Many of Rossland’s mines, including the Josie, became world-famous.

Fast forward over a century, and Rossland was once again drawing people from around the world, but this time, it wasn’t gold but rather a different kind of treasure: North America’s newest boutique ski-in, ski-out hotel. The Josie opened its doors on November 28th, 2018, offering an unparalleled mountain luxury experience for Red Mountain’s community and guests. Inspired by the raw beauty of Rossland, The Josie beckoned visitors from across the globe with its amazing amenities, impeccable service, and an ideal slope-side location.

We arrived in Rossland in the late afternoon, and after a short skate ski adventure at the Black Jack Ski Club, we pulled up to The Josie for check-in. Nathan was excited about the valet parking, valet ski check-in, and the festive lobby ambiance. After a swift check-in process, we entered our room, and Nathan’s expectations of hotel experiences were forever elevated.

Red Mountain is often referred to as the last great, unspoiled resort. “Great” was undoubtedly an apt description, with 2,877 acres of exceptional terrain and an abundant offering of fine Kootenay powder. The term “unspoiled” reflected not only the ski hill’s focus on community and authenticity but also its avoidance of becoming just another gentrified ski destination. Red Mountain has maintained its originality and spirit, much like during its gold mining heydays.
I love skiing Red Mountain—authentic community ski hills with epic terrain are my favourite. Slow chairs and no lift lines keep it so enjoyable. And the terrain keep me charging to keep up with a 15 year old who has skied Fernie from the age of three.

After our epic day on the slopes, we headed to The Velvet, The Josie’s dining room and lounge. It was our first time trying raw oysters and steak tartare for Nathan, who had been exposed to sushi and international cuisine for years. New culinary experiences are always welcome, and I must say that The Velvet’s menu and food preparation rival the best in the Kootenays and can compete with the finest anywhere.

Our three-night, four-day skiing adventure proved to be a wonderful father and son mini-holiday. For our next visit to Rossland, we plan to bring the rest of the family and introduce them to the charm of The Josie. Life is fleeting, and cherished family moments and unique experiences are what truly matter. If you’re planning your next trip, I wholeheartedly recommend creating your own special memories at The Josie.

About The Josie

The Josie is a collaborative effort between Noble House Hotels and Resorts and William Cole Companies, with the vision of establishing Rossland as one of North America’s premier ski destinations. Noble House is a privately held, fully integrated hotel ownership and management company that currently operates 18 luxury boutique hotels. William Cole is a boutique, full-service private real estate development company.

The Josie offers 106 well-appointed one-bedroom suites, guest rooms, and studio suites designed by the acclaimed architect Song Chia of FAB Studio, in collaboration with the renowned hospitality interiors firm Design Duncan Miller Ullmann, led by Kimberly Miller. Each room invites the outdoors in with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The rooms feature plush bedding, spacious bathrooms with deep soaker tubs and heated floors, as well as cozy lounge areas.

Visitors and locals will discovering the fine offerings of The Velvet. Reservations were necessary for the dining room and the large lounge can also booked. At The Velvet, Quebec-born Executive Chef Marc-André Choquette (pictured below) dishes up a regionally inspired menu infused with subtle French flair. His supporting kitchen team is comprised of seasoned hospitality experts, including Sous Chef Simon Watkins, Food and Beverage Manager Donald Haddad and Restaurant Manager Jessica Miles. I appreciated the Quebec influenced menu and fine food.

Visitors and locals alike will discover the culinary delights of The Velvet. Reservations are recommended for the dining room, and the spacious lounge can also be booked for special occasions. At The Velvet, Executive Chef Marc-André Choquette, hailing from Quebec, crafts a regionally inspired menu infused with subtle French flair. He leads a skilled kitchen team, including Sous Chef Simon Watkins, Food and Beverage Manager Donald Haddad, and Restaurant Manager Jessica Miles. I thoroughly enjoyed the Quebec-influenced menu and the exquisite cuisine served at The Velvet.