Who we are
“We saw that the community needed a gathering place – somewhere to get a hot meal and a drink in the evening, and a hub for entertainment. We also saw that tourist accommodation was needed. We worked on the project for four years, and construction took 15 months,” – John E. Pettigrew (owner)
Our Story
A musician himself, Pettigrew has owned the Slocan City Hotel building since 2013, operating a guitar retail and repair shop on the main floor. When renovations to the 70-year-old building became necessary, Pettigrew started thinking big. The building was renovated with sustainability in mind, Pettigrew says, and features reclaimed wood and a top-of-the-line sewage treatment plant. The building still houses Slocan City Guitar Repair in the basement, with instruments for sale as well, run by John Hill. Pettigrew has a vision for the hotel as a community hub, with music events and live broadcasts on a regular basis. In the past, Johnny has been a promoter and booking agent for musicians, so he has the experience and connections to realize this vision. “I’m working on bringing more people to the valley, and more celebrities who we can interview and broadcast from here,” he said. In about six months, the lobby will open as a restaurant, he says, with dancing and karaoke and live music. He is also looking at off-site catering of events such as weddings, providing the food and entertainment.
Slocan City
The Village of Slocan is a true gem in the heart of the Kootenays and is quickly getting to be known as the gateway to the Valhalla’s. Located on the southern edge of Slocan Lake, the new hotel is only a 1-hour drive away from bigger centers such as Nelson and Castlegar.
Why you should visit us
In the summer months, guests come to unwind and enjoy the sunshine at the beach, to canoe, kayak, paddle board, or to float down the Slocan River. There is also great rock climbing right in town on the lake’s edge. There are endless opportunities for hiking and exploring in Valhalla Provincial Park or on one of the many trails in the area. The winter months offer a quiet, snow filled retreat with great access to the backcountry for alpine ski touring or boarding. Bring your snowshoes and cross-country skis and hit the groomed 50 km rail trail right from town.
