Eastern & Maritimes Provinces, the flavor of Europe with some icebergs
The flavors of Europe, America & even Iceland
Atmospheric old towns that will transport you to Europe, bohemian chic neighborhoods to explore, world acclaimed art museums, great indoors and outdoors markets, top notch restaurants, energetic food and wine scene, vibrant street culture, Nordic spas, ski resorts, great lakes, floating icebergs, these regions have a lot to offer!
Quebec Province
You could come during the fall, when it is the Indian summer and enjoy the cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, when maple trees and birch trees explode in shades of red, orange, and gold.
Or you could come during winter time, when the entire land is wrapped up in white thick snow blanket. Everything is frozen, the temperatures are artic but the atmosphere is magical. It is the ideal time to go dog sledding, ice fishing or relaxing in an outdoor spa.
During summer time, you can enjoy hiking in the woods or swimming in the lakes.
Any time of year, you can spend a night or two in a cozy chalet, in the midst of the forest or overlooking a lake. You have to experience a trapper’s house atmosphere and chimney fire.
You will find plenty of activities and great food in both Montreal and Quebec City.
Montreal is the largest city in the region, with worldwide acclaimed restaurants, outstanding markets, fabulous museums, a hockey team and great festivals all year long, among which the famous jazz festival.
Quebec City offers a taste of old France with paved roads and a castle overlooking the city.
Saint-Alexis-des-Monts, a municipality located in the heart of the Mauricie, a vast territory that shelters dense forest and the most beautiful natural lakes in Quebec.
La Malbaie, a peaceful resort on the banks of the St. Lawrence, where you stroll along the cliffs and among the bourgeois residences of another century.
Tadoussac: the perfect place to spot some whales and belugas in the St Lawrence river estuary.
The Eastern Townships or Canton de l’Est: rolling countryside hills south of Montreal near the US border where you can visit grape and apple orchards (for wine and cider). This region is largely pastoral, marked by billowing hills and small villages.
The Laurentians or Les Laurentides: These are not the Alps or the Rockies, but fun on the slopes and great food is guaranteed. Mont-Tremblant is the most popular, with a lively pedestrian village at its base that is a kind of Aspen-meets-Disneyland.
Gaspesie: Authenticity: charming wooden inns with breathtaking views, typical lodgings in the woods, family outfitter, sea side villages where the friendly atmosphere prevails.
Beaches invite you to swim and traditional Acadian villages still live to the rhythm of fishing.
Meet Acadian families that have been on this land since the 18th century.
Swim in Barachois, huge sandbank and refreshing waters of bays.
Nova Scotia
The Marine and Lobster Land
There is a very British feel, both in the Celtic heritage and the landscape with boggy upland, golf clubs fish and chips and pubs. You can wear your gentleman farmer outfit or your wool sweater and you will fit perfectly in the décor.
There is also contrast with the wilderness with the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, the rolling hills, cultivated farms and picturesque fishing villages where to eat the best lobsters.
The sea is omnipresent and will offer the spectacle of whales offshore.
There is history as it is the cradle of 20th century European immigration to the American continent, as showcased by Pier 21.
Some museums will allow you to discover documents about the history of these pioneers in search of a better life
It is an ideal place if you want to go away from mass tourism. It is like New England in the 1950s.
Nova Scotia is a wonderful destination any time of year, but we love it during the fall when the foliage explodes into autumnal colors.
Halifax: a beautiful natural harbor, a fun street life as it is a university town. The place has been called a « San Francisco in miniature »
Cape Breton: breathtaking landscapes, historic fort at Louisbourg and scenic Bras d’Or Lake, an inland saltwater lake that nearly cleaves the island in two.
Cabot Trail, one of the most beautiful « scenic routes » in the world, a gateway to the wonders of nature with harbors, beaches, mountains and cliffs falling into the sea.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland is for sophisticated travellers who have been everywhere and are looking for a place apart!
With its windswept landscapes and impetuous ocean, the island offers a breath of fresh air to travelers who venture there.
The first land in the Americas, colonized around the year 1000 by the Vikings, its extreme location makes it a preserved destination even today.
The fauna is extraordinary rich: moose, whales, puffins, black bears, lynx.
Saint-John’s: the largest town on the island, where the colorful houses set the scene for a beautiful maritime postcard.
Trinity: typical white church, lighthouse in the bay, fishermen’s houses, you will fall under its charm
Fogo Island: the end of the world that you deserve where time stands still. Meet Fogo inhabitants whose families have on the island for more than four centuries, and discover their stories, their songs, and their recipes.
Twilingate and Gros Morne National Park: one of the most picturesque villages in Newfoundland.
The Park with immense fjords and mountains.
Giant Iceberg floating: It is advisable to go there during the summer season but you will be more likely to spot huge icebergs in the spring.
Adapt to the seasons: admire the icebergs in spring, pick berries in autumn, snowshoe in winter.
Enjoy fresh lobster and refined wines – ride along the coast – photograph the bright colors of fishermen’s houses – embark on a hike through the paths that border the coast – in the evening, enjoy the bright star watching.
Explore its natural wonder: rolling countryside hills that turns red and yellow during the fall, untamed forests, lakes, beautiful natural harbors, cliffs falling into the sea, rugged coast, fjords and icebergs, lichen-covered barrens and of course, whales, puffins, moose, black bears, and lynx
Discover a rich and vibrant culture: discover the oldest cities of North America, learn about the Viking, Celtic, French & British heritage that influenced these regions, it was the cradle European immigration to America. The importance of the sea and the fishing industry. Be transported in 1700th France in Montreal and Quebec City old towns. Musee des Beaux Arts in Montreal, one the finest art museums in the Americas.
For foodies, explore the markets of Montreal, taste the best smoked meat, see how bagels are made, feast on lobsters and sea food, go berry picking, visit orchards and vineyards, try ice wine.
Have Poutine for the first time in your life; unofficially the comfort food of the province, poutine is french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. It’s packed with flavor…and calories.
Have a typical rustic Quebec meal in a sugar shack, where they produce maple syrup.
For active travels: hike in dramatic fjords, go dog sledding, ice fishing, skiing, snowshoeing, riding, biking, and sea kayaking.
SAMPLE ITINERARIES
GET INSPIRED
Sleep in one of the most remote hotel on the planet
Located in “Iceberg Alley” the Flat Earth Society considers Fogo Island to be one of the four corners of the earth. Breathe air as pure as any you’ll find on earth.
Float among icebergs
Iceberg Alley to view the great mountains of ice, along with whales, dolphins, seabirds, and the spectacular coastline of Notre Dame Bay.
Stroll through the Mural District
Since 2012, artists from across the globe have been coming to Montreal to leave their mark on the city.
Bath in a forest like in Japan
Forest bathing, an import from Japan, has nothing to do with water and you don’t have to get naked to do it! It’s a wander through the woods, with all senses keenly open to the sights, sounds and smells.
Eat in a gourmet sugar shack
Since one of the most famous Canadian chefs, Martin Picard, has opened his, this traditional Quebecois rustic food is now worth a Michelin star!
Witness some time sensitive statues
A collection of tide-sensitive wooden statues in the St. Lawrence River. 100 bizarre figures are coming and disappearing as the tide rise or fall.
Scandinavian spa floating on the St Lawrence River
Perpetually anchored on the eastern side of the Old Port, catch incredible views of the port, Old Montreal, and surrounding waterfront as you move through the water circuit and feel the snowflakes falling on your skin.
Spend a night in an igloo
Ephemeral work of art and a unique northern experience not to be missed. Don’t be afraid of Québec’s rugged winters—inside the Ice Hotel it’s always 37.4oF to 41oF (that’s ‑3oC to ‑5oC), regardless of the weather outside.
Enjoy an evening of Jazz
In downtown, Vieux-Montréal, and the Plateau, jazz is a favorite pastime of locals and visitors in July during the world famous festival.
Star Gazing
Tobeatic became the core area of North America’s first certified Starlight Reserve and Starlight Tourist Destination, now known as « Acadian Skies & Mi’kmaq Lands. », due to its privileged lack of light pollution, and an inland climate with clear skies.
RECOMMENDED HOTELS & LODGES
Ritz Carlton Montreal*****
This luxury hotel in Montreal city centre features contemporary French cuisine at the on-site Maison Boulud. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV. A variety of galleries and boutiques are within 5 minutes’ walk and a saltwater pool is located on site.
The spacious rooms at The Ritz-Carlton Montreal feature a marble bathroom with heated floors and 19-inch flat-screen TV. Asprey bath products are provided. Rooms include a digital control of lights and curtains, as well as automatic toilets. Free WiFi, a minibar and flat-screen TV in the bedroom are also included.
A fitness centre is available at The Ritz-Carlton, along with in-room massages. A business centre, 24-hour concierge service and client accompaniment service are also offered.
Guests can dine in the garden of Le Jardin during summer months. Cocktails and snacks are available in The Ritz Bar.
Hotel Le Saint James*****
On the prestigious St-Jacques Street in the heart of Old Montreal, this historic landmark hotel offers luxurious accommodation, unrivalled services and a full-service spa, only steps from top attractions.
Area attractions, including Notre Dame Cathedral Montreal and the Old Port are all only moments from Hotel le Saint-James. Museums, gourmet restaurants and an exciting nightlife can also be found only steps away.
Originally built in 1870, the Saint-James elegantly blends old-world charm with state-of-the-art amenities, including in-room iPod docking stations and wireless internet access. The hotel also features an on-site library, offering old and rare books as well as a fully equipped fitness centre and nightly turndown service.
Guests at the Saint-James Hotel can also enjoy gourmet on-site dining at XO Restaurant, serving modern cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The hotel also features an extensive wine selection and weekend brunch.
Hotel St Paul Montreal****
Located inside a beautifully restored landmark building in the heart of Montreal, steps from major attractions including Old Montreal, Hotel St Paul offers unrivaled personalized services and many modern conveniences.
A coffee machine, mini-bar, desk and safety deposit box are provided in each room at the hotel. A flat-screen TV is also included.
Guests can enjoy the hotel’s 24-hour fitness center, free WiFi access, in-room massage services and on-site restaurants.
Only moments from Hotel St. Paul, guests can discover the historic Port of Montreal, the World Trade Center and the charming shops of St. Catherine Street. There is also a underground station located nearby, offering easy and instant access to all of the city center.
Hotel Gault****
Luxurious guestrooms, exceptional spa services and gourmet dining options await at this downtown contemporary boutique hotel, situated in the heart of Old Montreal, moments from popular attractions.
Hotel Gault provides everything needed for an unforgettable stay, including 24-hour dining service, a cozy library area with a fireplace and on-site DVD rentals. Spacious accommodations at the hotel feature heated bathroom floors, mini-bars, flat-screen TVs and large picture windows.
Only steps from the pet-friendly Gault is the city’s International Quarter and the business district. The World Trade Center, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Port of Montreal are all only a short distance from the hotel.
Manoir Hovey, Relais & Chateaux*****
A stay at Manoir Hovey comes with the promise of an abundance of fresh air in a scenic, unspoiled part of Québec, close to the U.S. This charming manor was built at the turn of the century and modeled on George Washington’s Mount Vernon home. It is nestled in English gardens in a forest on the shores of a lake, and there is a romantic and authentic way of life here. Rates include an array of onsite recreational facilities that make Manoir Hovey a destination in itself. The artful cuisine is enhanced by the wine list, which features 900 wines, and an exceptional selection of Québec’s finest cheeses. A wonderful getaway in all seasons, only 80 minutes from Montréal.
Hotel Fairmont Mont Tremblant*****
Ideally located at the base of Mont-Tremblant mountain, this hotel offers direct access to the pedestrian village and all key activities. A full-service spa and restaurant are featured on site.
Fairmont Tremblant features guest rooms with satellite TV and on-demand movies. Designer bath amenities and bathrobes are also included.
Guests can enjoy free use of the heated indoor and outdoor pool at the Tremblant Fairmont. Use of the hot tubs, sauna, fitness center and business center are also included with a stay.
The Windigo Restaurant at the Fairmont in Mont Tremblant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The hotel’s Nansen Lounge offers direct ski-in/ski-out access and mountain views.
Hotel Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac *****
Situated in Old Quebec, this heritage property boasts views of the St. Lawrence River. On-site restaurants offer a variety of dining options, from classic to regional dishes. Montmorency National Park is 2 minutes’ drive away.
The elegant, European-style rooms of Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac offer a cable TV and a coffee maker. Ironing facilities and air conditioning are also included.
Guests of the Fairmont are welcome to enjoy the indoor pool, a hot tub and steam rooms. A fitness room, business center and concierge services are also available. Guests can enjoy a variety of treatments at the Spa du Château, the on-site spa.
The Notre Dame Cathedral is a 3-minute walk from Le Chateau Frontenac. The Citadel of Quebec is 500 m away.
Hotel Auberge St Antoine, Relais & Chateaux*****
Along the St. Lawrence River, steps from the shopping on Le Petit Champlain, this hotel in Quebec City’s Old-Port area offers luxurious guestrooms and 2 on-site restaurants.
Auberge Saint-Antoine features guestrooms with free high-speed internet access, mini-bars and coffeemakers. Guests will feel pampered with goose down duvets and pillows as well as heated bathroom floors.
Guests at the Saint-Antoine Auberge can take advantage of the fitness center, then relax with a massage. After a busy day, guests can browse the display of archaeological artifacts in the hotel.
Chez Muffy restaurant at the Auberge Saint-Antoine serves French-Canadian cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can also enjoy a light meal in the hotel’s Cafe Artifact.
Ice Hotel
The only one of its kind in North America, the Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel) changes theme each winter to the delight of locals and tourists alike. Fascinating art and winter splendor greet you as soon as you enter the Grand Hall. You’ll be awestruck by the hotel’s rooms and themed suites which are decorated with majestic sculptures. Make sure to stop by the sumptuous chapel, where people from all over the world are immediately amazed by its magical ambiance. To add a touch of warmth to your visit, top it off with a delicious cocktail served in a glass made of ice!
Hotel Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu*****
Located between the sea and mountains in La Malbaie, Quebec, this luxurious castle hotel features a 27-hole golf course, on-site dining and a spa. It has cable TV with video games in every room.
Guests at Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu can enjoy the 2 outdoor pools, indoor pool and sauna. The on-site gym features free weights, bicycles and treadmills.
A work desk and an arm chair are included in the warm-colored rooms. The bathrooms have bathrobes and a hairdryer. Rooms with views of St. Lawrence River are available.
The full-service, hotel spa provides massages and body treatments. It also has manicures, pedicures and facials.
Ryan Mansion*****
Located in the heritage district of St. John’s, Ryan Mansion is a boutique hotel which echoes the opulence and grandeur of a bygone era. The entrance hall features a grand staircase built by the same people who built the grand staircase on the Titanic ship, and members of the British Royal Family have stayed here. Ryan Mansion is located in downtown St. John’s and a wide selection of local shops and restaurants can be found within 10 minutes’ walk.
All guest rooms feature an private bathroom with heated marble floors and a separate marble/glass shower. The spacious bedrooms feature a queen bed, designer furnishings, boutique linens and original artwork. Additional room amenities include free WiFi, a fireplace and flat-screen TV.
On-site parking is provided at no extra cost.
Popular Bannerman Park is located just across the street from this hotel. The Basilica Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is 350 m away and The Rooms cultural center is 601 m away. St. John’s International Airport is 4.3 mi from the property.
Artisan Inn
Since 1991, the Artisan Inn has been providing unique experiences to travellers to the Bonavista Peninsula in Eastern Newfoundland. The Inn, described in the New York Times as a “diffused hotel”, offers both rooms and self-catering vacation homes throughout various 4 and 4.5 star buildings in the heart of the cosy, historic outport town of Trinity, Trinity Bay.
Fogo Island Inn*****
A futuristic interpretation of local outport architecture, Fogo Island Inn hotel has set up a dramatic camp for rural retreat seekers off the northern coast of Newfoundland in a traditional fishing village. Forward-thinking as this 29 all-suites stay is – contemporary architecture, bespoke furnishings, sleek ensuites and a fine-dining menu – the inn is just as focused on preserving the island’s long-standing culture of fishermen, boat builders and local artists.
Large picture windows open onto the sea, offering superb views from sunrise to sunset.
Keltic Lodge*****
This historic Cape Breton resort, Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa, is located in the heart of Cape Breton Highlands National Park surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean with a spectacular view of Cape Smokey rising out of the sea. Keltic Lodge is the perfect spot for a Nova Scotia family vacation with recreation facilities on site and nearby that includes a heated pool, Aveda Spa, wilderness trails, hiking, whale watching and swimming at Ingonish Beach. Adjacent to the resort is the 18-hole championship Highlands Links Golf Course.
Trout Point Lodge of Nova Scotia*****
This remote, 3-story wilderness lodge is next to the Tobeatic Wilderness Area in the heart of UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve and beside the Tusket and Napier rivers. All rooms provide river and forest views.
The Trout Point Lodge of Nova Scotia is made of handcrafted Eastern Spruce logs, granite and sandstone. All guest rooms include a full bathroom and handmade wooden furniture. A flat-screen TV is available upon request.
Guests of the Trout Point Lodge may enjoy the outdoor barrel sauna or cedar wood-heated hot tub. A variety of nature and hiking trails wind through the surrounding area with guests able to arrange guided tours, including star gazing, or use the lodge’s GPS receivers. Canoeing, biking and fishing opportunities are also available.
The lodge’s on-site restaurant features a fixed and limited 4-course dinner menu which changes daily. Dishes include homemade cheeses, local seafood and greens picked from the lodge’s garden. Breakfast is a combination of buffet and a la carte service.
Trout Point is 40 minutes’ drive from Yarmouth & the International Ferry Terminal, while Shelburne is 36 mi away. Halifax Airport is within 3 hours’ drive away.
Westpoint Light House***
West Point area is famous for it’s beauty. Between the ocean, beach and pristine forest, lies a charming lighthouse where you can enjoy unforgettable stay!
This unique hotel has been built in 1881 and for 44 years has been light up with kerosene. It was the last lighthouse to be automated in 1985 – thanks to that, today you have a chance to book your stay here. Perfect remote place to help you forget about the world!
Hotel Train Station Inn***
This century-old train station in Tatamagouche features lodging in vintage railway cars. A museum and restaurant are located on site. Each unique, air conditioned room includes a fridge.
Free Wi-Fi is available in each guest room. Cable TV and a seating area provide relaxation options. All guest rooms have private bathrooms.
The Dining Car is open seasonally and offers lunch and dinner menus. Main dishes include salmon and steak. This restaurant can also hold private events.
After visiting the on-site railway museum, guests can stop by Train Station Inn’s gift shop or café.
Main Street, just 10 minutes’ walk away, is lined with shops, cafés and Raven Art Gallery. A variety of golf courses, including Northumberland Links, are 20 minutes’ drive away.
Hotel Ridgeback Lodge***
No internet, no telephone, a place where to disconnect!
Relax in a rustic log cabin or experience glamping in ourhighly praised domes, Ridgeback Lodge promises to help you forget the daily routine and get back to what’s most important – reconnect with each other. Ridgeback Lodge offers romantic getaways amidst natural beauty of the Kingston Peninsula, conveniently located in the heart of Atlantic Canada, between Fredericton, St. John and Moncton New Brunswick.
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Operations & Reservations
3477 Rushbrooke street, Suite 302
Verdun, QC, H4G 1S8 CANADA
Corporate Headquarters
107-27 71st Avenue, Suite 403
Forest Hill, NY 11375
Phone: 1-514-285-8758
Toll free: 1-866-285-8758
Fax: 1-514-285-9128
Email: info@eatvl.com