The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal

We had one of the most uncomfortable and frankly unacceptable experiences I’ve ever had at a hotel—especially at a property that positions itself as luxury. My 15-year-old son and I booked a Saturday night stay at the Ritz-Carlton Montreal at an extremely high rate, specifically because the New York Islanders were staying there. This is something we have done for years as part of our mother-son trips, and it has always been a positive and respectful experience. Upon check-in, the moment staff noticed we were wearing Islanders gear, we were immediately told we were not allowed to engage with or even speak to any players in any way. While we expressed that this was disappointing—given it was the primary reason we chose this hotel—we clearly stated we would respect their policy. What followed was shocking. Despite fully complying, we were then subjected to constant surveillance by two large security guards who followed us throughout the hotel—into the lobby, the gym area, the restaurant, and even near the restrooms—while we simply waited for our room to be ready. At no point did we approach, speak to, or attempt to interact with any players, even when they were in close proximity. The behavior of the security staff was not only excessive, it was intimidating and deeply inappropriate. At one point, we were even told to wait outside in the snow when we re-entered the lobby simply to locate a restroom. My son—who is a minor—was so uncomfortable that he described feeling physically violated by the experience. As a mother, that is completely unacceptable, and we ultimately felt we had no choice but to leave. We were treated not as paying guests, but as suspects—despite doing absolutely nothing wrong. If you are a woman or traveling with children, I would strongly caution you about staying here. For a hotel that prides itself on service and hospitality, this was the exact opposite.

We can’t really put into words, just how sensational our stay here was! Upon arrival the greeting and welcome was amazing, from the gentleman on reception with the beard, and Andre, who showed us round our stunning room. He was a superstar. Max, the concierge, was the standout team member. He made fantastic recommendations, and couldn’t have been more attentive. He’s an absolute credit to the hotel. Anastasia, also organised a super Valentines booking at a wonderful Spanish restaurant, too. The team in the bar were very attentive too, and we enjoyed The Ritz champagne, in wonderful surroundings. From start to finish, just the perfect stay, and every team member was just so friendly. Really wish this hotel was nearer to Manchester, but we will definitely be back, and can’t recommend highly enough. Thank you for a truly memorable stay.

I would give this hotel 4 stars. Overall, everything was very good and I really enjoyed my stay. The teams are, in general, extremely kind, welcoming, and professional, which makes a real difference. You immediately feel well taken care of. The rooms are lovely, modern, and very comfortable. A special mention for the bathroom: the shower turns into a hammam, which is incredibly pleasant and a real plus after a long day. The gym is also very well equipped and easy to access. The only disappointing point was the spa. While the welcome was very good, the massage itself was unfortunately not up to the level of the hotel. It felt more like being patted and shaken than actually massaged, which was quite frustrating. That being said, I would happily return to the hotel without hesitation just not to the spa.

We have found that Ritz Carlton has been a pretty sure bet as far as hotels, but this one in Montreal was just average. It is an older property that was in a decent location, and the building is attractive. However we found several things less than stellar. We booked our trip with points which makes no difference in reimbursement to the hotel. they do get the full rack rate back..so they were not doing us a favor. First of all we booked the basic king room which appeared to be adequate, however it is very small, and not in the slightest inviting. There was a small closet, but not ample space to access your luggage. The bed was okay, but the heavy duvet was way too hot and there were no simple blankets. The seating was an awful problem as there was only one chair and it wasn’t comfortable, so the other party had to sit at the desk chair. Overall it was a poor room with one small window. The bathroom was okay. We are gold members and were not offered an upgrade. The hotel was not busy and that would have been a nice gesture. One evening I decided to get a bottle of wine out of the mini bar and was shocked to find out they didn’t stock it. So why have one? We had breakfast two mornings. Once the service was outstanding, and the second morning a young guy was not attentive and spent more time playing with his phone rather than taking care of his customers. Lunch was delightful and we had excellent service. We did not have dinner at the hotel. Overall it was nothing special which was disappointing. I wouldn’t stay there again. I expected an amazing experience based on the reviews, but it really did not stand up to Ritz Carlton standards.

Recently, myself and eight friends stayed in the beautiful Ritz Carlton Montreal. We were celebrating my 70th Birthday. We had a fabulous time, a lovely hotel with every amenity imaginable. I wanted to thank Veronica and the guest services team for their wonderfully generous treat of champagne, strawberries and cheese cake. I and my friends appreciate their thoughtfulness! Thank you so much! Mary Jane C.