In planning my first visit to Quebec City, I decided to try two highly rated hotels. I love older properties and boutique hotels, and began with a lovely boutique hotel in the historic Old Port of Quebec.

Hôtel Le Germain Québec is situated in the heart of Old Québec,  which was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985.

Situated on the narrow and highly picturesque Rue Saint-Pierre, this is a 60-room property housed in a century-old building. The property is picturesque by day and by night.

A relaxed, welcoming environment

The stonework and high ceilings reflect the building’s age, and the finishings make for a stylish and welcoming environment.

If you’re carrying much in the way of luggage, take the rear entry rather than having to haul it up a couple of short suites of stairs.

Breakfast in style

The lounge is designed for easygoing relaxation, and there are more than a couple of nooks and crannies for privacy, as well as an outdoor patio.

I particularly liked the dining area with communal table, and found the continental breakfast offerings – fruit salad, cheeses, yogurt, croissants, breads and more, rather than hot breakfast choices – just right. The espresso bar in the lounge is also available day and night, and proved to be popular. Need to print something? Apart from the desk below one of my bedroom windows, there’s another desk just inside the lobby.

Conference and social event spaces

There’s a lovely conference space, with high ceilings reflecting that this part of the building was once a bank.

The Room

These linens – a down duvet comforter and pillows- were as comfortable as they look. Slippers? At the ready. Thirsty, or thinking a bit of chocolate would be nice? Staff have this covered, and you’ll find both in your room. Reading materials? Mais oui; in addition to a selection of French and English papers in the lobby, there were additional options in the room.

The spacious corner suite, with windows along two walls, offered a partial view of the famous St. Lawrence River. The bedside Bose radio was on as I entered the room, and the ambience was just right.

Pamper yourself

You can choose to close the blinds and have privacy between living quarters and the ridiculously spacious ensuite, which is accessed via a barn door. Bamboo and cotton bathrobes were hung at the ready, and guests have their choice of tub and marvellously oversized shower. How could you resist the rain shower and the simply splendid Molton Brown toiletries?

You like a night light? I appreciated the convenience and subtlety of lighting built in beneath the glass sink.

Hotel staff were warm and welcoming, and I literally had Old Québec at my doorstep. Is it any wonder all roads seemed to lead to Hôtel Le Germain Québec?

Planning To Go: The Lowdown

Getting There: I flew in via Montreal and landed at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport. Anticipate cab fare of approximately $35.

Hôtel Le Germain Québec: Thank you for making this stay possible, and merci to your welcoming front desk staff Antoine, Audrey and Sarah. They were gracious with my limited French, and helpful with dining suggestions. Guests need not speak French to feel welcome.  As always, perspectives are entirely my own.

What to do? You’ll find Old Québec a wonderful place to stroll, shop and dine. Watch for more on my stay, and aspects of the city, in upcoming posts.