Montebello, Canada
Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello
Rustic Luxury
What it is
A storied 210-room open beam lodge with a 1929 golf club, an award-winning spa, a yacht club, and activities aplenty.
What it isn't
An architectural mishmash. Even the pool building has soaring, exposed beam ceilings like the chicest ever mountain cabin.
What we think
Reportedly the largest wooden structure on the planet, Chateau Montebello is anything but overwhelming: cozy charm abounds here, from the fireplace flickering in the spa to the barbecue terrace (yes, barbecue terrace) overlooking the Ottawa River. Guest rooms are an alpine fever dream sprung to life, with plaid textiles, rough-hewn wood beam walls and supple leather and blonde wood finishes. To spread out a bit, book the 700-square-foot Louis-Joseph Suite, tucked into a corner on the 2nd floor and peeping out on the yacht club through four bay windows. It has a rainfall shower and living area, plus a separate powder room—ideal for families that need room to roam, as the starter room category here starts at a very snug 210 square feet.
You're here because
The Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello Golf Clubhouse has a bar terrace on the 18th hole—ideal for cheersing your wins and losses in equal measure.
The Moment
Sunday Brunch is legendary at Aux Chantignoles, served under the sky-high stone fireplaces and open beam rafters. But it’s more than the woodsy atmosphere that has generations coming back for more—as one bite of note-perfect pecan pie can attest. What says “vacation” more than dessert with your breakfast?
Restaurants & Bars
Le Riverain Terrace- Grab-n-Go snacks and cocktails
Bistro La Seigneurie- Traditionally inspired bistro cuisine
Aux Chantignoles- Steakhouse
Barbecue & Terrace- Family-style barbecue
Sunday Brunch- French cuisine and regional specialties
Location
A prime perch within the untouched forests of Montebello, where exploits include everything from dogsledding to kayaking, plus a game reserve home to some 200 species of birds.