Club Med Charlevoix
In my lifetime, I’ve had the privilege of traveling to some pretty exotic, faraway places. Complete with succulent foods, incredible views, and activities that memories are made of, I’ve seen a lot and so it takes a lot to impress me. So when I say my jaw was dropped at the breathtaking scenery and panoramic views at Club Med Charlevoix, I really, truly mean it.
Club Med Charlevoix, a Canadian four-season mountain resort, is finally open! Less than four hours from Montreal in Le Massif de Charlevoix region, you can enjoy an incredible and luxurious all-inclusive vacation. Waterfront views of the St. Lawrence River all around from every room and spa to ski hill and even the drive there! It was a fully immersive experience and I can’t wait to bring my family for more!
The architect, LEMAYMICHAUD, designed an environment that optimized a sweeping view of the landscape while also considering the orientation of the building itself so that it closely follows the topography of the region. A mind-blowing view of the mountains and river all around, it is such an incredible way to experience Quebec, because for those who don’t know, our province is just magnificent to look at.
Let’s talk about what an all-inclusive is really all about. So here’s the thing – when you think all-inclusive, your mind probably goes straight to a spring break or something like that. Well, Club Med Charlevoix does it right: from food and drinks to activities and all amenities, there is nothing to think about, it’s all part of the package. They make it so easy to sit back and relax and truly take in the rest and relaxation that a vacation should be.
What I love most is that you bring your family and don’t need to think about a thing. Babysitting and childcare are included. There is a kid’s club (age 4 months to 17 years old!) where your kids can be dropped off and taken on the slopes for a day of outdoor fun and indoor play. The ski pass and rentals, yup… included! AND, you don’t even have to worry about dressing your kids in their winter gear, they take care of all of that. As a mom of 3, I have to say that knowing my kids are not only taken care of but actually having a blast, is the best way for me to check out and read a book by the pool with my hubby.
I am a planner and so when I’m on a trip there’s deep research that goes into the itinerary. At Club Med it’s all part of the experience. Activities are just a part of the way people behave in Club Med. After dinner, the night is not over: there is always something to do, music to dance to, entertainment to immerse yourself in.
Club Med is known to have impeccable food and this resort is no exception. With Le Chalet, Terroir & Co, Le Marché, and Bar Le Météore, you have everything from cozy and intimate dinner, family fun, and go-to destination for party and entertainment. The menu was created to showcase the terroir – local artisans and was created in consultation with our very own Jellyfish chef, Mathieu Masson-Duceppe.
I remember when I was younger, all of our family vacations were at Club Meds around the world. I have so many fond memories of scuba diving and seeing turtles to dancing at night on stage with the kid’s club. One memory that came back to me while I was at club Med Charlevoix was how my dad used to absolutely love the baked goods – he’d actually wake up in the middle of the night to bake bread with the French chefs and even try to recruit them for our family bakery!
From wellness and activities, ski tickets to rentals, kid clubs and tons of live entertainment, Club Med Charlevoix truly delivers. And the opening ceremony was icing on my already-delicious cake. At the launch, Charlotte Cardin (if you don’t know, what is wrong with you!!?!?) performed. I was brought to tears singing along to her powerful music thinking about my kids (Neva specifically) who is so in love with her music. We listen to it on every drive up to our chalet, and just being away and hearing her sing moved me beyond. I already have memories that will last me a lifetime from Club Med Charlevoix, because it felt like I had brought a little piece of home with me. That is a true testament to their authenticity and ability to create an environment that is welcoming and engaging.
I spent 3 days and 2 nights there (with Patricia, friend & photographer) and had the full experience. I skied and went to the spa, I ate meals overlooking the mountains, I took the train rides and visited Bay St Paul. I did it all and I did with ease. I can’t wait to go back with my family. We’ll stop in Quebec City on the way as we drive along the river and on our way back, we can stop at the Hotel de Glace or Chute Montmorency. If you haven’t explored our province, what are you waiting for!? Now is the time to take the trip of a lifetime!
Photography of me by Patricia Brochu
Architectural images from Club Med