Family Travel: Why we love Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello
I have written about our visits to Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello many times over the years since we started going. We now, on average, get to visit about two times a year – often in the summer, and again when the Christmas decorations are up.
Sometimes, we have partnered with them to share tidbits on social media as a part of my blog, and I always love working with them, but this is one of those partnerships that works because we truly love the place, and go because we want to. We have recently booked our holiday trip (not sponsored, just a part of our advent activity celebrations!) and we can’t wait.
So what is it that brings us back, over and over again? Here are a few reasons we love Fairmont Montbello as a family (and why I think you will too)
Reasons to love Chateau Montebello
Comfortable rooms for families
We’ve been in a variety of the rooms, from a King bed with pull out couch, to two double beds – we’ve had the smaller rooms and larger ones and honestly have been comfortable in all of them. We typically don’t opt to pay for the extra space or the river view (sometimes we get lucky when we check in!) because our rooms are usually for sleeping and changing for the pool! Simple!
One thing I always talk about that I love at hotels when travelling with the kids are fridges. These rooms have fridges in everyone of them making it simple to cart along some snacks or breakfast bites (although, we do splurge on breakfast – you’ll read why later).
The lobby and relaxation areas
We spend a lot of time in this area, ordering drinks or snacks, and playing board games (all you have to do is ask for a board game at the front desk or board game room depending on the time of day). The kids are comfortable going to sign out a game themselves now, and it’s the perfect place to reconnect after a busy day.
The activities
In the summer months, one of the reason I love going so much is there is so much to do to keep us active. I often call it our summer camp. We play tennis and kayak and mini golf.
In the winter months, there are outdoor skating rinks, trails to walk on, curling available (at an additional cost) and more. Although, we tend to make our way to the lobby and the giant fireplace even more in the winter.
The pools
Yes, two pools. The outdoor pool is just like being at a warm destination resort but close to home. There is food and drink service, umbrellas to protect you from the sun, plenty of spots to lounge, and the pool is a good size so even on busy days it doesn’t feel like you can’t enjoy yourself.
In the cooler temperatures (and at night in the summer) we enjoy the gorgeous indoor pool. It’s stunning.
The food
I mentioned the breakfast briefly before, but while we’ve had delicious food for other meals, we often go into the town of Montebello to grab a bite and instead eat breakfast at Fairmont Chateau Montebello. The breakfast buffet is amazing and while it feels like a splurge, we all end up eating what we love. Especially the maple crepes. I can’t express how strongly I feel about my recommendation for trying these crepes! When the kids were much smaller, we used to order room service and make sure to get these too.
Bonus reason: The memories
Every time we go, with just the four of us, or with my parents and siblings, we have an amazing time and there are new memories being made. We love that we can arrive after only about a 50 minute drive from home, but feel like we are so far away. The service is incredible and the entire feel is special.
Wondering why we love going during the holidays? These decorations are definitely one of the reasons. But seeing the kids’ faces light up when we get there and they see this? That’s an even bigger reason. We love creating these memories!
Currently, the resort is undergoing massive renovations so we can’t wait to see the changes! Our holiday trip is booked – I have big plans for board games by the fire!
TIP: The rates are often less expensive between Sundays and Wednesday nights. When possible, we book then, and keep an eye out for their specials!
Chateau Montebello is one of my very favourite places to visit! Over the years I have only had the opportunity to stay overnight once (and it was with my first born who was 3 weeks old!). She’s 14 in a few weeks. Sigh.