Experience Transat

From Ice Hotels to Treehouses: 12 Unique Retreats Across Quebec

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Forget conventional hotels. For a truly transformative experience, why not try these unique stays in Quebec? Picture this: 12 eye-popping, heart-stopping, and totally Instagrammable spots that redefine hospitality with a Québécois twist. Ready for an adventure that’s anything but typical? Here are our suggestions, some of which are available year-round. 

Each of these unique stays is a chapter in the story of your next great adventure. The great outdoors of Quebec are yours!

Sleep in a dome – Charlevoix

Nestled in the picturesque cliffs of Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, Dômes Charlevoix offers a unique 5-star ecotourism experience. These geodesic domes, available year-round, blend modern luxury with the rugged charm of nature. Each dome can comfortably accommodate four guests and boasts a fully equipped kitchen, sleek bathroom, and a queen-size bed. Large windows offer breathtaking vistas, complemented by all the chalet comforts — including a queen-size bed on the mezzanine, a cozy fireplace, and an expansive terrace with a private hot tub.

From your mountainside perch, soak in stunning river views and the beauty of the Charlevoix region. Positioned ideally between Baie-Saint-Paul and Le Massif de Charlevoix, it’s the perfect base to explore this quaint, mountainous region.

Experience Huron‑Wendat hospitality – Hôtel-Musée des Premières Nations, Wendake

Nestled near Quebec City, Hôtel-Musée des Premières Nations is a year-round gateway to the Huron-Wendat Nation’s rich history and culture. When it comes to accommodations, you’re in for a treat: choose from the luxurious comfort of a 4-star hotel or embrace the unique experience of staying in the Ekionkiestha’ National Longhouse.

This traditional dwelling stands as a testament to the deep-rooted hospitality of this ancient culture. Whichever option you choose, immerse yourself in the array of cultural activities available on-site. Journey back in time to the Wendat way of life before European contact. Engage with storytellers who bring ancestral wisdom to life. Participate in craft workshops. Eat a refined meal at their on-site restaurant La Traite. Allow this experience to transform you. It’s more than a stay; it’s a passage through time and culture.

Sleep above the trees – LAÖ Cabines, Eastern Townships

Elevate your getaway, quite literally! Perched on stilts, the contemporary treetop cabins offer a new perspective on life and nature. Unwind in the tranquility of a space that blends the indoors with the outdoors, all while soaking in awe-inspiring views of Mount Orford or the serene Paul Lake. Immerse yourself in a luxurious, unusual forest retreat that’s all about embracing the unconventional.

Stay at the Ice Hotel – Quebec City

Step into a winter wonderland unlike any other at Quebec City’s Ice Hotel, a glittering palace carved out of snow and ice. Imagine sleeping in a room where the walls, the bed, and even the glasses in the bar are made of ice. This frosty fortress is not just a place to stay; it’s a unique, ephemeral work of art that redefines the concept of a hotel. Each room is a unique snow sculpture, offering an enchanting and surreal experience.

Embrace the icy elegance of this architectural marvel and find warmth in the coolest of adventures.

Watch the sun rise over the St. Lawrence River – Domaine Floravie, Bas-Saint-Laurent

Tiny houses, giant views await at Domaine Floravie. These eco-friendly mini-chalets are big on charm and low on footprint, open from mid-May to October’s end. You’ll be within a stone throw’s of the Parc national du Bic stunning hiking trails. Perfect for couples wanting to try something different or or good friends who can share a small space.

Experience imaginative, substainable accommodation – Vertendre, Eastern Townships

Curious to experience one of the most susbstainable tourism experiences in Quebec? Vertendre‘s self-sufficient tiny houses and lofts are a dream. Bathtubs on wheels, bicycle-powered electricity, and a fireman’s pole – because why not? This property is a playground for adults and kids alike, and yes, they thought of everything – even the cutlery.

Stay in a designer mini-cabin – Charlevoix

An hour and a half from Quebec City lies Repère Boréal – where nature is your neighbor. Even tough they’ve been operating for a few years, these modern cabins remain one of the best unique staysin Quebec and one of the most sought-afters… even by Quebecers!

Think large windows, roof terraces, and the Shiship – a recycled shipping container turned chic chalet. Coincidentally, it’s the gateway to some of Quebec’s most beloved national parks and outdoor treasures.

Sleep on the water – Baie des Chaleurs, Gaspésie

In Gaspésie’s Carleton-sur-Mer, the floating yurts of Aux 4 Vents promise a stay that literally goes with the flow. On Baie des Chaleurs, these unique accommodations let the gentles waves rock you to sleep and allow your senses to be awaken by the soothing sounds of nature. It’s comfort zone challenging, but in the best way possible.

Join in on the glamping fun – Huttopia, Eastern Townships

French flair meets Canadian wilderness at Huttopia in the Eastern Townships, notably through their groundbreaking partnership with the National Parks of Québec (SÉPAQ). Since 2015, they’ve brought luxury camping – think tents with full en-suite bathrooms – and wood-fired pizzas to the forests of Québec. It’s camping, but with a flair for the finer things. Perfect for those who dream of camping but can’t imagine going to the toilet in the middle of the night!

Open from mid-May to the end of October.

Live the full Nordic experience – Imago Village, Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean

Perched in the iconic Monts-Valin, Imago Village redefines the concept of a yurt with a view. Admire Mont Victor-Tremblay valley and Le Valinouët ski resort (which are breathtaking at any time of year) in these six cozy cocoons for a perfect Saguenay experience.

A winter haven for the snow enthusiasts, with L’Éternel Spa and its Nordic experience a stroll away.

Sleep with wolves – Parc Oméga, Outaouais

Imagine drifting off to the chorus of howling wolves within the comfort of a panoramic log cabin. This isn’t just a dream; it’s an invitation to an unparalleled adventure in the midst of nature’s untamed beauty. At Parc Oméga, embark on a journey where you’ll witness the grandeur of these noble creatures in their natural environment, experiencing moments so magical, they’ll feel like a brush with the wild unknown.

Parc Oméga has made conservation and revitalisation of endangered species their sole mission. The park’s foundation provides shelter and animal care for injured or orphaned wild animals.

Accommodation includes park entrance, meaning you can hop on the 12-kilometre safari route and brush with the many other big game specimens living in Parc Oméga (think caribou, deer, black bear and arctic foxes). 

Cover photo credit: Christian Savard/Bonjour Québec

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