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Wood is good at the Chateau Montebello, a memorable
lodging choice for a Montreal, Quebec golf vacation.
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When Fairmont Hotels merged with the Canadian Pacific railroad concern, they acquired the historic grand hotels that the latter once built to entice passengers to travel, including classics like the Banff Springs Hotel and Jasper Park Lodge. The least well-known of these gems is the Chateau Montebello, the largest log structure in the world, and the most unique place to stay on a Montreal, Quebec golf vacation.
An amazing piece of architecture, it was hewn from 10,000 red cedar logs, and consists of a four-story open-air central atrium, from which radiate four lodging wings, creating a huge, star-shaped hotel. The lobby is built around an enormous four-sided stone fireplace pillar, so big it actually requires four separate fires to reach its openings. Outside, the grounds are endless, and include a lake with a marina, gardens, a large spa and fitness center, and trails for horseback rides, biking and hiking.
One of the most unique features of the resort is its private wilderness area, the Fairmont Kenauk, sort of a second resort, since it offers luxurious cabins for upscale "camping." Kenauk encompasses more than 100 square miles, and offers hiking and fishing so good it lures destination anglers from all over North America. The two properties lie 15 minutes apart, and in between is the small town of Montebello, which offers a few additional dining options.
Sadly, the weakest link at Montebello is its golf course, a Stanley Thompson design that was redone in the eighties. Quite short at only 6,240 yards, the course's defenses are odd blind shots and sloped landing areas, similar to the failed style of mountain golf architecture we have seen at some ski resorts in New England. Despite the course's shortcomings, Montebello is so unique and naturally beautiful that it warrants a visit, and it's an easy hour's drive from Mont Tremblant village, allowing both to be combined into a memorable Montreal, Quebec golf vacation.
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