Living Shangri-La, the iconic building currently under construction at University and Adelaide, had its official topping-off party today, and a few of us here at UrbanToronto had the opportunity to be among the first to see just how spectacular the views are from the top of the 66-storey hotel and condominium.

Looking up at the Shangri-La from University Avenue, image by Craig White

Built by Vancouver-based Westbank Corporation and designed by James Cheng along with Hariri Pontarini Architects, Living Shangri-La far surpassed what we were initially expecting with its one-of-a-kind views. Situated on the west side of University, you get a breathtaking shot of the Trump Tower, Scotia Plaza and First Canadian Place to the east.

Looking east to the financial core, image by Craig White

Looking east to the financial core, image by Craig White

Looking south is a nearly unobstructed view of the Toronto Islands, while westward you can see as far as Mississauga, with its distinct Absolute World towers silhouetted against the sky. Looking north you see Queens Park and Yorkville, with North York City Centre in the distance. Standing on the very top affords a 360-degree view of Toronto, and a pretty impressive shot of the CN Tower, seen below.

Looking south from the top of the Shangri-La, image by Craig White

One of the two-storey penthouses can be seen in the following image; not only do the units get some of the best views in the city, but they can claim the highest terraces in Toronto, outfitted with their own private whirlpools.

West-facing penthouse terrace with Toronto Islands in the background, image by Craig White

Few projects in the city have sparked as much interest among UrbanToronto's Forum members as the Shangri-La; from its provocative podium to its breathtaking views, the tower will no doubt become a hotbed of activity and a major player in the Toronto real estate and hotel scene when completed later this year.

Podium fronting University Avenue, image by Craig White

Future Momofuku restaurant at the Shangri-La, image by Craig White

For those of you who haven’t already heard, UrbanToronto has teamed up with Living Shangri-La to offer three lucky winners (along with one guest each) the chance to tour the project and see firsthand the spectacular views from the top of the tower. To enter, join our Facebook page and tell us why you want to win!