Luxury Lodging in Quebec's Charlevoix Region

Set atop a cliff overlooking the St. Lawrence River, the five-star Le Manoir Richelieu in La Malbaie, Quebec has amenities that offer both a fully self-contained visit and the perfect base from which to explore the regional landscape that has inspired countless painters and writers.

The 400-room Fairmont-owned hotel recently spent roughly $175 million on upgrades to reinforce its ultra-lux status. It’s just one of more than a dozen remarkable lodging properties available to visitors who come to this stunning area situated on the north shore of the Saint Lawrence River.

Other magnificent hotels include the uncompromising and refined 18-room Relais & Chateaux-owned La Pinsonniere. For a more relaxed experience, the 42-room L’Auberge des Falaises offers a cozy, family-run inn.

Charlevoix’s creative son Daniel Gauthier – the co-founder of Cirque du Soleil – was born in the area and his mark can be seen at Hotel La Ferme – an impeccable property combining both chic and rural accents within a distinctive décor.

In order to make travel to his hometown of Baie-Saint-Paul more efficient, Gauthier also renovated the local rail station to devise a convenient link between the town in which his hotel resides and Quebec City.

Activities in the region include Emu Charlevoix – Canada’s largest emu eco-farm. Sunday brunch hits a high note at Domaine Forget, a historical enclave located in the coastal village of Saint-Irenee. And a trip to the area wouldn’t be complete without a whale-watching excursion. Several local outfitters offer daily tours, including the family-run AML Cruises.