Québec’s license plates proclaim Je me souviens, french for “I remember”, and those who have had the pleasure of visiting this eastern Canadian province, are likely to be awash in positive memories. The St. Lawrence River winds through a landscape of farmlands and mountains. The farms, food markets, sugar shacks, boutiques and galleries are not to be missed. And in winter the whole area turns into a wonderland with exceptional skiing.
The area is exemplified by Le Massif de Charlevoix, the alpine resort sited in a UNESCO biosphere reserve on the St. Lawrence River’s north shore, just over an hour’s drive east of Québec City. Charlevoix has earned renown for its family farms and food producers which produce local cheeses, chocolates, and craft beer. It’s known for its incredible biodiversity including a marine habitat that supports 13 whale species. And the landscape had inspired generations of artists, including the founders of Cirque du Soleil.
One of Cirque du Soleil’s founding visionaries developed Le Massif, an upside-down resort with parking and the main lodge capping the summit. Skiing here is an adventure, one blessed with abundant snow averaging more than 250 inches annually. Trails lace the 2,526-foot vertical, the biggest drop east of the Canadian Rockies, descending to the St. Lawrence River’s ice-choked shore. Some trails noodle through woods, revealing teasing glimpses of the river. Others deliver expansive, in-your-face panoramas that often encompass cargo ships cruising by ice floes. You might even spy whales in the spring.
Many have likely wished they could stay right there, awaken to this mountain’s glories, ski all day, and slip into the night, skipping the travel to and from off-site lodging. This season, the all-inclusive Club Med Québec opens at Le Massif’s base and those dreams come true.
The new Club Med Québec takes its cue from its location. The architecture reinterprets traditional designs while echoing the terrain and showcasing mountain and river views. The fare served in the restaurants and lounges capitalizes on the nearby farms and local delicacies, and the activities offered honor the area’s heritage. These include ski and snowboard classes for all abilities (ages 4 and up), snowshoeing, yoga, and even circus classes. Guests ages 11 and older may enroll in new guided ski workshops which emphasize immersing in nature while discovering Le Massif’s varied terrain and improving core skills.
Club Med’s all-inclusive program means you won’t have to worry about anything, from getting to the resort to understanding the local language. If you need a break, there are plenty of opportunities to warm up by a fire, in the large indoor pool or your own private jacuzzi (if you splurge for the Exclusive Collection – 5 Star – space). For those who may have gone a little too hard on the slopes, the Club Med Spa by Sothys offers massage treatments and a outdoor cold and hot plunge baths to soothe tired muscles and while the parents relax, kids and teens in the family are treated to dedicated children’s clubs from ages 4 months-17. Once everyone’s enjoyed some “me” time, enjoy locally inspired cuisine at Le Chalet or meet up at the dedicated family restaurant to bond over a steaming pot of fondue and some cookie decorating for dessert. You won’t even need to carry a wallet while at the resort because meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, gratuities, lift tickets, ski/snowboard lessons and most activities are included.
Beyond that, Club Med Québec ensures you’re able to discover some of the region’s a la carte outdoor adventures, such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and— this being Québec—ice canoeing. Of course, you may also want to indulge in some of Charlevoix’s less-active pleasures, including gallery hopping and shopping in nearby Baie-Saint-Paul where you can purchase tasty souvenirs from local food producers.
Whether you ski all day or explore the local culture, be sure to return to the resort before nightfall to watch the sunset’s colors illuminate the river. With a cocktail in hand and a full itinerary for tomorrow, you can be certain this will be a vacation to remember.
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Book now during Club Med’s Ski Getaway Sale and save up to 45% on All-Inclusive Packages.