We finally took time to escape as a family for a few days of relaxation as our summer has been very busy with the sale of our home and upcoming move. We decided to stay local and share the magical Fairmont Château Montebello together, making memories and enjoying time as a family. My husband and I had been to Château Montebello before having our children and still talk about the time we spent there together! I had heard that it was magical in the summer and let me tell you – it was!
We headed up at lunch time on a Sunday with the sun shining and the kids super excited! While we were waiting to check-in (we were a little early) we enjoyed the main area that has a fantastic room to sign out board games and activities. The kids enjoyed a round of Sorry while daddy and I enjoyed a fresh cup of hot coffee. Baby R loved walking around the steps of the fireplace (that wasn’t on of course!) and she kept herself busy.
Once checked in we got settled into our rooms and promised the kids a swim in the indoor pool. The Château Montebello indoor pool is the biggest hotel pool in all of Canada with an amazing rustic and cozy feel. The whole place reminds me of the movie Dirty Dancing. The kids had an absolute amazing time swimming and we loved that the pool was nice and warm. After swimming we headed back to the hotel room and prepared for dinner. We decided to try the bistro at the hotel as the kids were getting tired and it was starting to get late. Of course the food here did not disappoint either. The kids had access to the buffet in the main dining room with a ton of food options varying from french fries, pasta, to steamed vegetables and chicken. I think the highlight for the kids was the ice cream sundae bar. After dinner we headed back to our rooms and as you know I’m an early bedtime pusher, so we got the kids prepared for bed. They were quite amazed by the turn down service that the Fairmont provides. After the kids were snuggled into bed I left to go back down to the bar and treat myself to coffee and Baileys before I snuggled in at the main lodge to do some writing.
Being the early risers they are, my kids were up bright and early the next morning for our nanny to come and take them for the day to explore Montebello. The lovely husband and I booked massages for us, and I also treated myself to a facial which was absolutely divine and wonderful. We spent the day relaxing by the water enjoying time together and remembering what life was like to be just us before kids. After the kids arrived back from their adventures we spent time on the patio, where they enjoyed barbecue grill cheese and nachos. We promised them one last swim before hitting the sack and because the weather was so nice we decided to head to the outdoor pool. The kids slept wonderfully every evening as they were so busy and active during the days.
Our last day at Château Montebello started off with a lovely breakfast buffet which allowed the kids to eat what they felt like eating (there were so many options) and the adults the opportunity to treat themselves to well-made food that was truly delicious. We then spent the morning mini-putting, playing on the play structure, going for bike rides, enjoying the scenery, watching the horses and the other little animals. There was much disappointment when it came time to head back and turn in our hotel room key, but we promised to return again this winter.
Before leaving Montebello we went to a family favourite of ours, Parc Omega. The kids enjoyed feeding all of the animals from a large bag of carrots. What we did learn on this trip to Parc Omega, after having several previous trips, is that mating season is not the best time to go. A lot of the male animals are very protective of their females.
We had an absolutely amazing time together as a family and we cannot wait to return to the gem that Fairmont Château Montebello is. Château Montebello is deeply rooted into history and has been a staple in Canada for many years. In speaking with my grandfather I learned that it was one of my father’s favourite places to go when he was a child. I’m happy that we can share and create special memories with our children at the same place. We cannot wait to return this winter!
For more information about the Fairmont Château Montebello visit their website, and follow them on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
Disclaimer: We were given a complimentary evening stay at the Château Montebello, but all views and opinions are strictly my own. We loved it before this most recent visit!
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