“The only trip you will regret is the one you don’t take.”

When one thinks of Canadian travel, one may envision gorgeous mountains, secluded lakes, and clean, friendly cosmopolitan cities…

But wait… would anyone stop and think, “Oh, Canada has some of the best vacation resorts out there!”?

Resorts are normally associated with lavish getaways “down south,” in tropical countries with constant sunshine and the sweetest fruits.

Before I get you in tropical “vaca mode,” let’s take a step back.

Canadian resorts – is that actually a thing?! Yes… it absolutely is!

Vacation Resorts in Canada

Vacation resorts in Canada exist – and they deserve WAY more credit!

Our family adores travelling. One way we love to travel is by exploring our own country. Lately, “staycations” have been our favourite ways to experience adventures within our nation’s borders.

One place we always go back to is Fairmont le Chateau Montebello – and can you blame us?! It’s an absolutely gorgeous resort and makes for the perfect, family-friendly trip! (Psst: remember that time we went for our baby moon?)

My kids are growing up going to Fairmont Montebello at least once or twice a year. For every season, there’s always something to do. I promise, there’s a little bit of something for the entire family.

In my opinion, Fairmont le Chateau Montebello is the best resort in Eastern Canada. Here’s why:

Why Fairmont Montebello is the Best Resort in Eastern Canada

Beautiful Property

It goes without saying that Fairmont hotels are absolutely gorgeous… from the inside out!

Fairmont le Chateau Montebello is no exception. Its property is huge (psst: it’s the largest log cabin in the world!). The hotel building itself is about 4 million cubic feet. Plus, its outdoor area is absolutely captivating.

This Fairmont property boasts gorgeous greenery, beautiful terraces, fountains, gazebos… the works! It’s no wonder that they’re able to offer so many fun activities for the entire family to enjoy!

On-Site Activities

With Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello’s on-site activities, the possibilities are endless. There’s a little bit of something for everybody – and this is exactly why our family adores visiting.

Just a few steps away from the main entrance, is the hotel’s Sports Chalet, which is open daily from 9am to 7pm. There, you can borrow equipment and enjoy sports and activities including:

• Tennis
• Bicycles
• Mini golf (our son’s fave!)
• Badminton
• Croquet
• Golf
• Remote control trucks

Other activities that the hotel offers:

• Playground
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Paddle boards
• Hiking trails
• Outdoor fire pits
• Electric bikes

As a mom of two, my goal is to avoid the phrase, “Ma, I’m so bored!” Whenever we visit Fairmont Montebello, boredom is never a possibility because we’re always up to something. Trust me: there’s never a dull moment at this gorgeous resort!

Poolside!

What good is a resort without a pool? Well, great news: Fairmont le Château has two of them.

Yes – two pools for double the fun! One is an indoor heated pool, inside their grandiose aquatic center. The pool itself is a whopping 75 feet, with two hot tubs above it to warm you right up.

Their outdoor pool is breathtaking, surrounded by numerous lounge chairs and private cabanas – it’s luxury and relaxation at its finest! Plus, you get a view of the peaceful Ottawa River – it’s quite the sight to see. My oldest adores the outdoor pool and if given the choice, he would stay there all day.

Foodies, Unite!

If you’re a passionate foodie, then Fairmont Montebello is the place to be.

Aux Chantignoles is the resort’s main restaurant, serving delicious gourmet meals (including their oh-so-famous buffet breakfast), which are all inspired by local cuisine.

Montebello’s Barbecue is one-of-a-kind. It’s served on their gorgeous outdoor terrace, overlooking the Ottawa River. Included are 4 courses (all-you-can-eat, no less!), BBQ style.

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After we dined at their famous barbecue, Joe and I were stuffed! It was such a tasty experience and definitely one that we’ll be repeating.

From dine-in options to outdoor terraces, there are tons of meal possibilities at Fairmont Montebello.

The Coziest Rooms

When it comes to accommodations, Fairmont has a stellar reputation – and for good reason! The rooms at Fairmont Le Château Montebello stay true to Fairmont fashion and are absolutely superb.

Our family loves staying in their newly renovated wing. The rooms are pristine and completely updated. Though they are newly designed, they still maintain that cozy, rustic-chic vibe one would expect from a luxury cabin – ultimate perfection!

Summer Fun Package

One thing’s for sure: visiting Fairmont le Château Montebello in the summertime is a MUST! Be sure to check out their Summer Fun Package, so you can make the most of Eastern Canada’s best resort in the sunny months!

Some of the perks that the Summer Fun Package includes are: daily breakfasts, daily resort fee, and credits to the spa, golf, and dining room.

If you were to visit Fairmont le Château Montebello, which activity would you give a try?