Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello

We booked a “rustic” room on the Papineau 400 level — which apparently means rusted, not rustic. The carpet hadn’t changed in over 30 years (we have photos from 30 years ago), now featuring bumps and pulls as if it were trying to form its own mountain range. The shower curtain had seen… things. Iron stains, mystery markings, and hair from what I can only assume were former guests who left a part of themselves behind. The toilet seat had clearly been through several administrations. When we checked out and mentioned the issues, the front desk shrugged with the enthusiasm of a wet log. The confusion didn’t stop there. We tried booking activities — told “no reservations needed,” then arrived and were told the opposite. We were promised curling every day, but apparently that meant only during mysterious “specific times” no one could define. Luckily, we managed to sneak in one day. The gym and squash courts were closed for construction — something that might have been worth mentioning before check-in, or at least in an email or by front desk staff. Meanwhile, contractors were wandering freely, leaving doors propped open in winter temperatures so the pool area could double as an unadvertised ice bath. The change rooms had mirrors hanging off the walls and an overall aesthetic best described as rough bar night chic. The concierge line might connect to another dimension, because it never gets answered, and the in-room phone seems to be for decoration only. Staff on-site had no idea what was open, when, or why. No activity board, no information, no in-room booklet — no clue, literally. Every question turned into a guessing game: • What time does the lobby bar open? Unknown. • Are activities running? Possibly. • Can you get a drink? Only if you’re in the right place at the right moment. The building itself is stunning and the setting is gorgeous — but the experience felt like Clue: The Resort Edition. Who’s serving dinner? Where’s the curling? Why is the pool freezing? Nobody knows, and management doesn’t seem to care. Then came the kicker — a charming, utterly coothless letter from management informing guests that the power might be cut off and that we could “purchase coffee” if our in-room machines didn’t work. Nothing says “luxury resort” quite like being told to buy your own caffeine while the hydro’s out. It’s not as if they own, say, multiple canteens and banquet halls designed for hosting events or anything. Even a few simple fixes — a touch of paint here, a bit more foam in the lobby cushions, and some actual communication — would go a long way. Would I stay again? Only if they start marketing it as a live-action mystery retreat.

Outstanding experience from start to finish. Beautiful resort with a focus on the gorgeous Quebec region on the Ottawa river. We had a lovely King room with a view of the river, spacious and super comfy we spent 3 nights here and did not want to go home. Shout out to Nathalie on reception, what a gem!! There is nothing like this vast log cabin with it's beautiful vaulted ceiling and enormous fireplace. Pictures do not do this place justice - so much history and unique architecture. Their sweet lobby dog Victor likes to cuddle and everyone working here are fantastic, you can tell they are a happy team. We were disappointed there was only 1 restaurant open during our 3 night stay but the dinner was truly remarkable (separate review for Chantignoles restaurant) and the enormous swimming pool and hot tub was a treat after our very long drive. Beautiful grounds, would love to come back in the summer and location is an easy walk into Montebello town for any supplies. Loved this place so much, if you are asking if it's worth the spend, trust me - it is and you won't regret it!

The Fairmont Montebello is a wonderful family destination. They have an array of activities including golf lessons, painting activities, Zumba classes, pools, mini-putt and a playground, all included in the resort fee. They also have a wonderful spa. We enjoyed our rooms and the service. Our son has a peanut allergy and all of the food was house made and peanut free at the breakfast buffet! We will be back!

We were with a tour group. We didn't see much of the outside of the hotel, but the lobby was amazing, with the multi-sided fireplace and rustic furniture. We ate dinner and breakfast in the restaurant. Both were delicious, and the staff was attentive. It went downhill from there. Someone else's luggage was delivered to our room and it took quite a while to find ours. The room needed a serious overhaul. The carpet and upholstered furniture was stained. Paint was peeling off the walls in places. There was mildew in the tub. The vent on the heating/cooling unit was filthy. The painted trim on the doors and window frames was chipped so badly you could see the raw wood underneath. There was no alarm clock in the room. We felt like we were in a cheap flea-bag motel. Glad we only had to stay one night. Awful.

Having visited several Fairmont properties, I've been wanting to stay at this iconic one as well. Me and my wife came here with my older parents, they were impressed as well. From the reviews, I was not sure what to expect, it left me scratching my head. All I can say is Wow, where did these unhappy guests stay? I understand there is some renovated rooms and some more rustic ones if I may call them that. We stayed in a renovated one and my parents got one as well and it was perfect and very clean, extremely cozy in a good way, super comfy bed with luxury linens (Frette)? Yes you have some dents and nicks here and there, look at the old doors and the thickness of these, you won't see this type of detail at your new cookie-cutter Hilton by the airport. LOL. This property is iconic and a true Canadiana gem! I think some people coming here don't have the right expectations, it's the largest log building in the world, most of the interior is original from the 1930's, what are they expecting? I can be quite high maintenance, even more so than my wife, but I have a hard time finding something to complain about, the staff was very good as well, all through our stay. We got turndown service and a tray of sweets for the night, with a card from management. Yes it was 500$ (breakfast included) but a stay like this is an experience and it was totally worth it. The ambassador dog Victor in the lobby is such a good charming boy, I went for a walk with him, so very nice. In any event, the property has character, charm and history, just enjoying the breathtaking lobby is a vibe and a moment that you will not find anywhere else, we spend hours just sitting and relaxing there; eating, drinking, reading, chilling. Memories for a lifetime and hoping to return someday perhaps. You will either love or dislike this place, decide which side you are on before going, you know who you are. There is no in the middle here. Cheers!