The 7 Most Unique Hotel Experiences in Quebec City

Why it made the list

This modern lodge in the wilderness is woke, taking "rustic redux" to a new level. Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations is a luxury escape, but also a fully immersive cultural experience. It combines Aboriginal history, crafts, artifacts and, architectural style. Better than glamping, it has a museum, spa, restaurant and a traditional longhouse. There is a Labrador tea ceremony in the lobby each day from 3 p.m. The spacious guest rooms are decorated in fur pelts and wind catchers, but don’t worry—there are mod cons like King-sized beds, fine linens, Keurig coffee machines and upscale bathrooms. Located just 20 minutes north of Quebec City.

Here's one for the bucket list: a luxury rural hotel coupled Read More

Why it made the list

Fit for King Ragnar of Sweden, this magical winter retreat is part Viking, part Inuit. Every winter, artisans create a new ice palace, with 40-plus rooms and suites that impress guests with their carved walls and vaulted ceilings. While the lack of en suite bathrooms may be a deal-breaker for some guests, it’s all part of the charm (Remember, each reservation at the Ice Hotel is coupled with a room in the Valcartier Hotel, just a two-minute walk away). The outdoor thermal baths are friendly and fun. There’s a dramatic wedding chapel and bar—also made entirely of ice. This sounds the perfect opportunity to look like a Bond girl in your Tsarina fur hat.

The first of its kind in North America, this hotel, open fro Read More

Why it made the list

Yes, that’s a grand piano in the lobby bar! Known to jazz aficionados around the world, the Clarendon is unique—a destination steeped in both musical history and Art Deco style. The hotel within Old Quebec is homey and comfortable, with an elevator and over-stuffed couches in the salon-style lobby. Note the interesting brass grill work at the reception area, the Tiffany lamps, the upholstered wing-back chairs and the striking black rafters. For more than 40 years, the Clarendon has hosted icons like Diana Krall, Vic Vogel, John Zorn and Michel Donato. Weekend shows sell out. Reserve your seats in advance.

Built in 1870, this is the oldest operating hotel in Québec Read More

Why it made the list

If you’ve ever wanted to live in a Victorian doll’s house—and frankly, who hasn’t?—this hotel is the solution. It is rigorously Victorian, down to the bed posts, teapots, antique writing desks, wing-back chairs, oil portraits and ruffled bed skirts. The sitting room off the lobby is highly civilized, with upholstered settees, chandeliers and a fireplace. The original grand staircase is polished and pressed into service (i.e. no elevator). A recent renovation upgraded the bathrooms, making it comfortable and practical, as well. Guests are provided hand-knit slippers upon their arrival. The Upper Town location is convenient to all tourist attractions.

Calling all romantics! Winding staircases and crystal chande Read More

Why it made the list

All the benefits of a country club without the annual dues and backstabbing. The Château Bonne Entente offers something novel—a resort-like property in the country, near their golf course, yet a comfortable distance from downtown Quebec City. There are 11 acres of gardens, including a meandering outdoor pool. Poolside amenities are superb: hammocks, hot tubs, a gazebo, double loungers, comfy Bali beds, and delicious light meals and drinks from the patio's Napa Grill. A shuttle takes guests to town.

Sitting on 11 acres of gardens, Le Bonne Entente is a self-c Read More

Why it made the list

Step in to the past—a more pious time—for an experience of quiet contemplation. A fully-restored 17th century cloister, this property is a living museum with all the comfort of a four-star hotel. The focus is on holistic health and serenity—a welcoming refuge from relentless urban noise and clamber. Behind the old stone wall (still standing), there are 17th century gardens and a meticulously restored campus—including a museum, boutique, wellness experts, a restaurant and hotel. It’s all blessed, no doubt, by the ghosts of the original Augustinian nuns who came to Canada in 1639 to care for the sick.

Grand architecture overlooking the vast St. Lawrence River p Read More

Why it made the list

Worth the 60-minute drive outside Quebec City, this one-of-a-kind property is loved for its pastoral views and modern pleasures. Built on the site of a former farm run by nuns, this ultra-modern complex has stables, a thermal pool, a spa, an art gallery, a bakery, the chef’s herb garden and a eucalyptus steam bath. The five buildings on the property are each unique, with a unified Nordic design theme. Rooms have exposed wood and comfy big beds. Guests operating on a smaller budget appreciate the economical dormitory, with showers and no baths. We love the fact that Le Germain is heated and cooled by geothermal energy.

A luxury experience in a pastoral setting with horses, a the Read More