Making the most of winter at Fairmont Le Château Montebello
The best way to enjoy winter? If you ask me, it’s by making every day an opportunity to get outside, try new activities and live in the moment. And here’s a tip: I know the perfect place to combine nature, adventure, fine cuisine and relaxation … all in one day! Read on to learn more about Fairmont Le Château Montebello and its Winter Fun package.
A stunningly beautiful winter paradise
Roughly equidistant from Gatineau, Montréal and Tremblant, Fairmont Le Château Montebello is a destination that appeals equally to outdoor enthusiasts and to couples looking for a relaxing getaway. On-site activities include horse-drawn sleigh rides, curling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, snow tubing, fatbiking, snowmobiling, bonfires and heritage tours—and that’s only the beginning.
Did you know that this majestic hotel, built in 1930, is recognized as the world’s largest log castle? From season to season, the site transforms to reveal its most beautiful features. Winter is definitely my favourite season to stay there, and you’ll soon see why. I invite you to accompany me and my friends on a trip to discover everything this unique place has to offer.
A memorable stay
As we arrive on the premises, we can’t help being impressed by the grandiose sight that meets our eyes. As we enter the lobby, we immediately notice the imposing six-sided central fireplace and the warm (in both senses of the word!) atmosphere. All we want to do is stretch out on one of the sofas and enjoy a hot chocolate in front of the crackling fire.
After putting our bags in our rooms, we venture out for a walk before dark. As we stroll along the paths around the hotel, we discover three areas equipped with outdoor fireplaces surrounded by wooden benches, with blankets to keep warm. It’s inviting, and the setting is beautiful!
When suppertime comes, we find a table at Aux Chantignoles restaurant. Glass of wine in hand, enjoy comfort dishes from the restaurant’s new seasonal menu, such as chorizo gnocchi from Ferme Moreau, baked Adoray cheese or honey-roasted trout from Kenauk Nature. Don’t even try to resist the delicious crème brûlée, one of the best I’ve ever had! From the appetizer to the dessert, everything is delicious. The service is outstanding and the dining room overlooks the resort property and the frozen river. What more could you ask?
We awaken the next morning well rested and more than ready to try all the activities on our agenda! We start with breakfast, served in the dining room or in your room. The generous portions and the selection of dishes offered are the perfect start to the day.
We bundle up and head to the sports shop, where equipment can be rented: cross-country skis, skates, snowshoes and hockey sticks (all included in the resort experience fee!). The shop also serves as the reception area for the BRP Experience Centre and Montebello Mountain Bike, in case you want to inject a little adrenalin into your day, whether in a side-by-side ATV or on a electric snowmobile or fatbike!
We step out of our comfort zone by trying a new (to us) sport: curling! Guided by an instructor, we learn the basics of this sport that requires precision, coordination and balance. The goal: to use a broom to steer a heavy stone along a slippery surface so that it reaches the target. It’s not easy by any stretch, but it’s a lot of fun to try with friends! For an additional fee, more experienced curlers can reserve ice time in one-hour blocks.
Our day continues with a cross-country skiing expedition. In total, there are more than 15 kilometres of trails on the property, ranging from easy to difficult. We opt for the 4.5-km loop around the Château, but other trails go across the golf course or into the village, and offer beautiful scenic views in the heart of the forest. These same trails can also be explored on snowshoes.
In the afternoon, after a hearty lunch, we head to the spa for a peaceful interlude of self-care. Body treatments, facials, massages and balneotherapy are offered. I especially enjoyed the lounge, with its fireplace and luxurious couches, and the indoor pool and whirlpools. Relaxation at its finest!
We conclude our wonderful stay by taking a few minutes to read quietly by the fireplace and enjoy a cocktail at Le Foyer bar, with its selection of beers, wine and spirits.
All in all, you’re sure to fall in love with this place, as I do every time I visit. Whether in the comfort of your room, breathing the fresh air in the forest or skating under the garlands of lights, every moment spent at Fairmont Le Château Montebello will be part of your most cherished winter memories. Book your stay now and start making those memories!
Treat yourself to an unforgettable getaway!
Take advantage of the Winter Fun package, which includes accommodations, daily breakfast, a welcome amenity, resort experience fee and a $20 spa credit per person.
January 4 to March 17, 2024
From $399 per night based on double occupancy. Taxes not included.
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There’s lots to see and do in the village of Montebello! Stroll down Notre-Dame Street and visit one (or more!) of the gourmet stops along the way: sample microbrewery beers at Les Brasseurs de Montebello, fine chocolates at ChocoMotive, fresh cheeses at the Fromagerie Montebello, and pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven at the Bistro de Montebello. Sheer delight awaits you!
