Le Capitole Hôtel is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Canada’s historic Quebec City. From its prime position, guests have the opportunity to take in panoramic views of the cobblestone streets making it the ultimate location for a city break.
Hotel
With two restaurants, a pool, gym and adjoined theatre, there’s little need to leave Le Capitole. This feeling is further aided by the space of the rooms; all 109 are generous in size, offering plenty of room to unpack and relax.
The indoor pool – kept at a balmy 31 C – has a full bar attached and comes into its own in the summer when the adjoining rooftop opens, too, complete with sun loungers and patio umbrellas. In the winter the pool is the perfect place to warm up.
We chose to start our day with a quick morning workout in the gym, it’s a well-equipped space with plenty of machines and free weights. It also overlooks the city, meaning there are plenty of distractions for those bored with the treadmill.
Room
Chic, classic and comfortable, our spacious bedroom was the perfect base for our time in the city. We stayed in the peak of summer and made full use of our balcony, which offered a panoramic view stretching from the port to the city’s walls, where a Canadian flag flew high in the centre. It was just as spectacular come morning as it was at night.
The overall interior was simple, but luxe. Panelled cream walls juxtaposed with a black leather headboard. The furnishings were a mix of gold and printed navy, giving the room an Art Deco grandeur. Our bed provided the ultimate night’s rest with high quality linen and pillows designed to be melted into.
If the room felt spacious, the bathroom was another level. With floor to ceiling windows, the space was bright with additional mirror lighting, making it a pleasurable place to get ready for dinner. This was aided with the warm underfloor heating.
Our room didn’t have a bath, but the hotel does offer suites with free standing bathtubs which overlook the city’s stunning skyline.
Food and drink
Come for the convenient location and elegant room, but stay for the food. During our time at Le Capitole we tried both their restaurants; Il Teatro and BŌ Cuisine d’Asie.
The latter is a stunning pan-Asian restaurant, serving delicious food and exquisite cocktails. Among our favourite dishes were the locally caught Quebec oysters, salmon sashimi and wagyu beef noodle dish. If you’re into spice, I’d recommend the spicy margarita, though be warned it comes with a kick! Unlike some sushi restaurants, the portions here are generous and despite being a luxury restaurant, the staff are casual and informal, which only added to our enjoyable experience.
Breakfast was much the same. Served in Il Teatro, the alfresco patio space sits beneath an ivy-woven canopy and had a distinctly European feel. This was enhanced by the surrounding architecture.
Ahead of a day of exploring the city, we tried both the croissant filled with bacon and egg, as well as the seasonal omelet, which came with the most moreish roast potatoes and fruit salad. Washed down with a smooth and bold coffee, we were set to climb the city’s steep inclines.
To do
When planning a Canadian city break, Quebec may fall behind other major hubs like Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver, but this thriving city has so much to offer, from shopping to fine dining and many incredible natural landscapes. Just a 15-minute drive from the city is the Montmorency Falls, at 83 metres this stunning waterfall is taller than the world-famous Niagara Falls. Here, visitors have the opportunity to explore the falls up close as well as walk around surrounding trails.
If the weather isn’t on your side, I’d highly recommend walking around the city’s many shops and department stores. Simmons was our favourite, offering a range of brands for bargain prices.
Culinary fans may know Quebec is home of poutine – the carby, cheesy dish which joyfully combines chips, cheese curds and gravy. It would be wrong to travel to the city and not try some, for a tasty, generous portion, try Restaurant La Buche.
In a nutshell
In short, Le Capitole Hotel offers a luxurious and unique stay, blending historic charm with modern elegance. Located in the heart of Old Quebec, it provides easy access to the city’s rich cultural landmarks, shopping, and dining. Weeks after staying there, I still think about sitting on the balcony, with a morning coffee in hand and can’t wait for my next visit.
Factbox
Address: 972 Rue Saint-Jean, Québec, QC G1R 1R5, Canada
Phone: +1 800-363-4040
Website: lecapitole.com
Hotel photography courtesy of Le Capitole Hôtel.
