Montebello, Quebec

The first thing we did on Wed., July 8 was to stop at a recommended marina in Hawkesbury so we could have someone look at a small fuel leak that we still have. We were lucky to have a good repair marina so close to where we were staying.  However, after consulting with their mechanic, all that could be done was to do more screw tightening.  That hasn’t completely resolved the situation but it is much better than it was.  Later that morning Jonny talked to the mechanic who installed the injection pump at Rouses Point and he recommended another adjustment which Jonny has yet to do.

Since we had done all that we could at this point, we made another quick stop to top off our fuel tank and get a pump out.  Finally by 10:30 we were on our way to our destination for the day, Montebello, Quebec.  While on the Ottawa River, towns that are on the north bank are in Quebec and towns on the south bank are in Ottawa. We are going back and forth between the two.

At first we weren’t much interested in going to Montebello but so many people we met insisted that we must see the famous and beautiful resort,  Chateau Montebello,  that we decided to go and stay at their marina where we would be eligible to use this all the resort’s facilities. We arrived there after lunch and were assisted by the very gracious dockmaster.  The building that housed the marina office was most attractive, a log cabin structure with bright red trim.

 As soon as we arrived, we set out to explore this Greenbriar-type resort.  The main Chateau is reputed to be the world’s largest log structure.

It was built in 1930 in record time, just three months! This remarkable log chateau is shaped like a 6 pointed star and made of 100,000 hand-cut and set red cedar logs.  The design was inspired by chateaux in the Swiss Alps.  This is a true year-round resort with activities that include swimming in both indoor and outdoor pools, hiking, biking, fishing, cross-country skiing, of course a spa, and even a Range Rover racing course.  The resort has played host to world leaders including the G7 economic summit, a North American leaders summit and more.  Though not our usual style of vacation it was recommended by so many people we met that we decided to splurge. Staying at their marina was more economical than one of their hotel rooms!

That afternoon we explored the grounds that included some historic buildings and sat by the pool overlooking a gorgeous view of the river.

But instead of going for a swim in that pool that was filled with kids, we opted for the more sedate indoor pool.  It was an Olympic sized pool under a vaulted skylight - quite impressive.  We took advantage of their showers and accompanying amenities before heading back to Zendo.

Our other splurge was to have dinner at their nicest restaurant where we had a wonderful dinner served in the traditional continental style.  We sat by the patio overlooking the terrace where the huge nightly barbecue buffet was taking place. It was amazing how many families were guests at the hotel.  After dinner we explored the Chateau with its huge fireplace surrounded by several floors of open lobby space and decorated in a comfortably rustic style.  

We’re glad we treated ourselves but this is neither our preferred style of vacation nor one that is generally compatible with our wallet!  The next stop on our journey is Ottawa.