The Fairmont Le Château Montebello, located about an hour-and-a half from Montreal, is a wonderful full-service resort. It is quaint, rustic, luxurious, fun, and offers something for the whole family.  Tested Travel visited Fairmont Le Château Montebello in the late summer and was able to take advantage of many outdoor activities.  From their literature, looks like there is plenty to do in the winter as well!

  • Lodging: Originally founded as a private club in 1930, the Fairmont Le Château Montebello is part of the Fairmont hotel chain and is the world’s largest log cabin. The main lodge is super cute, warm, inviting, and comfortable.  While many of the Fairmont properties are super luxe, Le Château Montebello has more of an old-time family feel.  The main lobby houses an enormous stone fireplace, lots of cozy chairs with reading lights and board games. The standard sleeping rooms are smallish but continue the fantastic lodge vibe.
  • Activities: There are so many fun things to do at the Fairmont Le Château Montebello. You can rent bikes and ride the area trails, you can head out on the lake on a kayak or paddleboard, you can ride horses, play tennis, or go swimming in the indoor or outdoor pools.  Tested Travel particularly loved the spa!  Massages and a pedicure? Can’t be beaten! For history buffs, you can secure a guided tour of Manoir Papineau, the 19th-century grand estate of Louis-Joseph Papineau.  And, don’t miss the game room!  Note that many activities are included as part of the resort fee, but some are extra.
  • Eats: The Fairmont Le Château Montebello has four restaurant options.  Aux Chantignoles is the fine dining option, specializing in French Cuisine in a lovely grand ballroom. The Seigneurie Bar, located downstairs, is more informal, but still serves up a great meal.  Tested Travel enjoyed eating in the Seigneurie Bar and listening to live music (while the younger Tested Travelers were down in the hall in the game room!).  There is also an outdoor bar and grill.  Perfect for after pool lounging!  Across the board, the meals were delicious, healthy, and varied.

Of particular note, the Fairmont Le Château Montebello has a resort dog!  “Monty” the golden retriever who is a gentle and loving presence strolling around the grounds.

While you might not need to leave the resort (honestly, you may never want to leave), there is a nearby town of Montebello with shops and a few restaurants.

This is a very popular resort and rooms book far in advance.

Tested Travel really enjoyed our stay at the Fairmont Le Château Montebello!  To learn more, visit their website.