The Chateau Frontenac IS Quebec City. From its dominant position in the center of Old Town, the Chateau Frontenac towers over the St. Lawrence River. The 19th century, copper - domed castle, is said to be haunted. The guided tour is highly recommended, especially if you’re not staying here.
On the main floor, overlooking the river, The St. Laurent Bar with its imposing dark wood and overstuffed furniture is a good bet for guests and visitors alike. Order one of the signature martinis named for the Chateau Frontenac’s most famous guests: Winston Churchill, F.D. Roosevelt or Maurice Duplessis.
Accommodations and Facilities
With 618 guestrooms and suites, accommodations vary widely. It’s best to check your room first as some can feel quite cramped, especially the tower rooms with their slanted ceilings. The same can be said of some bathrooms. Try to get a room with a river view, so you can watch the barges, shrouded in morning mist, drift down the St. Lawrence.
The Club Frontenac Health Club features a 49-foot indoor pool, whirlpool, kid's wading pool, steam rooms and a fully equipped exercise room. During peak times, the complimentary spa gets quite crowded.
The business center, located on the main floor across from the reception area is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Computers, fax and photocopy services are available. Internet access gets pricey.
Dining
Executive chef Jean Soulard, has been with the Chateau Frontenac for over 15 years. He was the first Canadian Chef to be awarded the “Maître cuisinier de France”. A cheerful man, Soulard is responsible for overseeing 3000 meals a day in four of the hotel’s restaurants.
His approach to cooking is straight forward; use the best ingredients available. To this end, Soulard seasons with the herbs he grows in the Chateau’s Frontenac’s rooftop garden.
His hugely popular breakfast buffet at the Café de la Terrasse, features a wide choice of salads, breads, pastries, fruits, vegetables, and cheeses. Hot and cold entrees of every description including a rare side of roast beef complete the meal. Best bets include the grated rosti potatoes and smoked salmon served with Soulard’s own condiments.
For the Kids
Afternoon Tea with Madame Rose Every Saturday afternoon at 3 p.m., kids aged 5 to 12 are invited to join Madame Rose for tea at Le Champlain restaurant. Madame will tell stories and share tips on tea place setting, tea etiquette and how to eat and serve tea party food.
By the end of the session, kids will be well-mannered guests in any social situation. It's worth the 25.00 per child.
Free Activities
- daily drawing contest
- kitchen visits
- photos with the Chef
- milk and cookies turndown.
Tips and Contact information
Tips:
- Try to get an online special that includes breakfast - a suprisingly good deal compared to regular prices (from 145.00).
- Book well in advance for Winter Carnival (February1-17/08), July and August and Christmas/New Year.
- For more than two people, book a suite.
Contact Information:
1 rue des Carrieres
Quebec, Quebec
Canada
G1R 4P5
T.(418) 692-3861
F.(418) 692-1751
1-800-257-7544
email:chateaufrontenac@fairmont.com
Fairmount Chateau Frontenac