In a city as fast-moving as Toronto, knowing where to look for the hidden gems makes all the difference. That’s the idea behind Concierge Diaries, a new Now Toronto series created in partnership with Destination Toronto, shining a light on the Les Clefs d’Or concierges who quietly shape some of the city’s most memorable experiences.
These are the insiders with access, intuition, and an uncanny ability to turn a simple stay into something unforgettable.
Now Toronto dropped by King West Village’s 1 Hotel Toronto, a hotel celebrating its fifth year of sustainable hospitality in the city, where Concierge Robin Elliott has spent nearly five years redefining what it means to experience “urban nature.”
Meet Robin, the concierge who knows the city by heart
With two decades in luxury hospitality under his belt, and 15 years as a Les Clefs d’Or member, Elliott is on the front lines of creating experiences for visitors.
“I have the best job in the world,” he says plainly. “My favourite part is getting to be an ambassador of the city and creating memorable experiences for guests. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the appreciation from a guest who loved the experience you arranged for them.”
The role requires constant discovery. Between long-standing industry connections and a commitment to trying new experiences firsthand, Elliott stays ahead of a city that never stands still. And surely, exchanges with fellow concierges ensure he always has fresh insight, whether it’s a just-opened restaurant or a hidden green space.
Where the city meets nature
Elliott says the term “urban nature” is fully encompassed in what Toronto has to offer.
“Urban nature is where the city meets the beauty of our natural surroundings,” he explains, pointing to the lakefront, the islands, and green spaces like High Park and Edwards Gardens. “We are lucky in Toronto to have a lot of stunning nature within our vibrant city.”
But at 1 Hotel Toronto, that concept extends indoors. The property itself is like one giant living ecosystem, home to more than 3,300 plants, wood interiors, and biophilic design elements that blur the lines between outside and in. Spaces like the Flora Lounge feel less like a hotel bar and more like, in Elliott’s words, an “urban living room,” while menus at restaurants 1 Kitchen and Casa Madera emphasize local sourcing, with some ingredients grown just steps away in its Garden Pavillion.
“It is a state of mind,” Eliiott says. “Our team is dedicated to the concept of nature, and it is reflected by our people in everything we do.
And at 1 Hotel Toronto, wellness is weaved into the stay. Guests can move between the Field House gym, rooftop pool, yoga classes, and even seasonal experiences like outdoor skating or the Full Moon Sound Bath. For deeper relaxation, Elliott points to nearby spots like Hammam Spa and AIRE Ancient Baths Toronto, both offering immersive escapes just minutes from the downtown core.
A different way to experience Toronto
From the waterfront to close-proximity parks, Elliott says urban nature truly transforms the city’s energy. If you asked him to design a full “nature in the city” day, it might include the Evergreen Brick Works, the Don Valley ravine system, or even a private Toronto Islands tour.
But even after sharing dozens of recommendations, Elliott still holds a few close.
I can’t tell you anymore unless you are my guest at the hotel,” he teased.
To unlock more Toronto, read our Concierge Diaries series, powered by Destination Toronto.
