ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: I arrived after a stay at Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations in Wendake and was fortunate to receive door-to-door service as my Québec journey continued. The property sits directly across from the Museum of Civilization, which is worth a visit. The doorman carried our bags up to reception, and our room was ready on arrival. The hotel occupies a central spot in Québec City, just below the tourist area around Château Frontenac.
Exploring Old Québec meant plenty of walking up and down stairs, and it felt comforting to return to the hotel each time. Several excellent restaurants are within easy reach. The hotel is made up of three historic buildings, each an important piece of the city’s past. Archaeological finds from North America’s oldest colonial city have been unearthed on site and are displayed throughout the property.
© Francis X. Gallagher
GUEST QUARTERS: The room combines historical character with modern comforts, featuring antique furnishings and a large king bed. Each of the 95 rooms is unique and individually decorated. Our room, 406 La Chambre De Monsieur Addis, included heated floors, down comforters and pillows, and complimentary WiFi. A minibar and coffee station greeted us on the right as we entered, and to the left was a spacious bathroom with a tub and a separate glass-enclosed shower. The sink was single-basin and the toilet on the opposite wall. From the room we could see the courtyard below and the St. Lawrence River to the right, where a Crystal Cruises ship was docked. The sitting area had a sofa, bold red cushioned chairs, a workstation and a flat-screen TV.
© Auberge Saint-Antoine Relais & Châteaux
SERVICES/AMENITIES: Bar Artefact is a pleasant spot to unwind; we sampled a charcuterie board one afternoon and found the staff, especially Claire, warm and helpful. Conversations with Crystal guests suggested service quality remains excellent following the cruise line’s bankruptcy. Chez Muffy is a highly regarded, romantic restaurant in Québec City and one of the most coveted reservations in town; we enjoyed a memorable multicourse dinner there. Nearby L’Orygin offers a lively bar where we ate oysters and then enjoyed a full meal served by Max and his skilled team. Chef Sabrina Lemay leads the kitchen and, with a business partner, has created an intimate dining experience that includes a connected speakeasy for pre- or post-dinner cocktails.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- Prime location in Québec City, just removed from the busiest tourist crowds
- Roasted lamb loin at Chez Muffy is highly recommended
- Québec City has a European feel, and the exchange rate is favorable for many visitors
AUBERGE SAINT-ANTOINE RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX
8 Rue Saint-Antoine
Québec, QC G1K 3Z9 Canada
tel 418 692 2211