Renovations are always a complex undertaking. Yes, the goal is to update and improve upon a facility; however, the spirit of the structure must remain. A successful renovation injects a modern flair while still maintaining the history and the essence of a place.
Nowhere is this fine balance achieved more gracefully than at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. One of Canada’s most distinctive landmark hotels, the owners have completed a delicate and thoughtfully driven $75 million, lobby-to-roof renovation. The hotel continues its tradition of defining luxury and delivering unmatched hospitality with a contemporary spirit respectful of its history.
The hotel’s 611 guestrooms have been meticulously renovated with updated contemporary conveniences to reflect the Château’s unique architecture and meet the needs of discerning travelers. Additional renovations include Fairmont Gold, the Château’s boutique hotel product, which increased its room count from 46 to 60 and added additional space to the private lounge. The exclusive services of Fairmont Gold include a private lounge, dedicated Concierge, deluxe continental breakfast and hors d’oeuvres. Fairmont Gold guestrooms are located on the hotel’s highest floors, offering the most stunning views of the Quebec City and St. Lawrence River.
The renovation of the main lobby highlights preserved signature pieces and the restoration of historic details, creating a majestic atmosphere. Large Italian blue onyx back lit panels, inspired by the beautiful St. Lawrence River, welcome guests in the reception area, and the Rose grand staircase boasts a custom 15-foot chandelier made from slender pieces of glass modeled after the icicles that form during Quebec’s winters.
The culinary experience has been heightened and transformed under the watchful eye of experienced Executive Chef Baptiste Peupion, introducing three new concepts. Champlain restaurant, the hotel’s signature dining space, highlights an innovative Québec cuisine by up-and-coming Chef Stéphane Modat. The 1608 Wine & Cheese Bar offers the largest variety of Québec cheeses, perfectly matured inside a dedicated cheese room, with an unparalleled selection of quality wines by the glass. Le Sam offers a vibrant culinary experience with creative dishes, afternoon tea and innovative mixology.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac continues to be a place of celebrations. The renovation of its historic rooms, including the Grand Ballroom, adds 15,000 square feet of new meeting and banquet space, bringing the total meeting space to 40,000 square feet, and accommodating 10 to 1,000 guests.
Enhancements to the guest experience include a newly built Spa du Château featuring seven treatment rooms, offering exquisite signature treatments and a renovated and expanded health club.
The site of the hotel boasts over 400 years of history, with historical artifacts showcased in display windows throughout the property. The restoration of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac has been overseen by internationally acclaimed and award-winning design firms Rockwell Group and Wilson Associates.
Since its opening in 1893, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac has stood as a landmark and symbol of culture, history, elegance, and hospitality. Built as an ideal stopover for Canadian Pacific Railway travelers, it was designed by New York architect Bruce Price, drawing on the architectural styles of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
“Our goal was to preserve and renovate this iconic hotel and maintain its continued legacy while adding a contemporary dimension to provide an unparalleled hotel experience and meet the highest expectations for our guests,” General Manager Robert Mercure said.
Judging by the results, this historic hotel has succeeded admirably.
