Club Med Charlevoix, Quebec: Your Perfect All-Inclusive Canadian Retreat Near Home

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All-inclusive… but with a Canadian twist!

I don’t know about you, but I was surprised to find out that Club Med, well-known for its catchy commercials featuring beach fun from my childhood, is still operating with resorts around the globe. Even more surprising was discovering there’s a location right here in Canada.

Club Med Charlevoix is unique as Canada’s only all-inclusive ski resort and the first of its kind for Club Med in North America. If the name is unfamiliar to you, you’re not alone; neither my friends nor family had heard of it either. This hidden gem along the St. Lawrence River might just be one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. To its credit, it only opened its doors in December 2021 amid the ongoing pandemic, so news about it may still be circulating. While primarily marketed as a ski resort, it welcomes guests year-round. For our family of four, it was an ideal summer escape!

Curious to learn more about this distinctive resort and what it has to offer? Keep reading!

How to Get to Club Med Charlevoix

So, how did we discover this place? It feels like a childhood game of telephone; I first learned about it from my sister-in-law, who heard about it from a co-worker, who found out from a friend.

It seemed hard to believe that Canada had an all-inclusive resort from a globally recognized brand that no one seemed to know about. Yet, here it stands, and when I found out about it, it was the perfect time for a getaway for our family, who had been dealing with a series of challenges. A quick vacation close to home felt just ideal.

I immediately visited the Club Med website to learn more about the resort and to book a room for our family for a five-night stay. The resort has a variety of accommodation options, including luxury suites known as the “Exclusive Selection,” which come with personal concierge services and other amenities. However, for our family, I chose the Deluxe Family Room, accommodating up to five people, which seemed perfect. Fortunately, a summer promotion offered 40% off, which was a bonus. I later discovered that the resort frequently offers sales, switching between different enticing deals throughout the year, so you’re likely to find a promotion no matter the season you wish to book.

Although traveling by air would have been quicker (around 1.5 hours from Toronto Pearson Airport to Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport), we decided on a road trip. The distance from Toronto to Charlevoix is about 9 hours on a good day, without considering traffic delays or construction. So it was quite the journey. With my husband and me sharing driving duties and some great music, we made it an enjoyable trip. Should you fly, the resort provides a shuttle service from Jean Lesage, roughly a ninety-minute ride.

As we traveled from highway to highway, the beautiful Quebec scenery unfolded before us. We passed by trees, mountains, charming towns, and the breathtaking St. Lawrence River, making the journey enjoyable. The drive along Rue Principale, with its scenic views along the St. Lawrence coast leading directly to the resort, was delightful. With the waterway, lush forests, towering mountains, and quaint French-style homes dotting the landscape, it was hard to believe such a resort could be hidden here. In fact, the resort remained concealed until only a couple of minutes before our arrival.

First Impressions of Club Med Charlevoix

Upon turning onto Rue de la Montagne-Secrète (which is aptly named), we finally spotted the three large buildings of Club Med nestled within the landscape and surrounded by trees. With its striking architecture, rich colors, and modern style, the resort beautifully integrates into the natural surrounds, albeit a bit incongruously compared to the traditional Norman-style homes we saw on the drive. After more than nine hours on the road, it was a welcoming sight.

As we stepped inside, the large, bright, airy lobby made us feel instantly relaxed, showcasing a blend of contemporary and rustic design. The concierge desk welcomed us in the spacious front lobby, surrounded by eclectic decor and the largest fireplace I’d ever seen. A “GO Team” member, as Club Med staff are called, provided us with a thorough overview of what to expect during our stay. As she fitted us with wristbands—our identification as resort guests and entry keys—she reassured us that we were in for a fantastic holiday.

The kids were impressed (and those with teenagers know how challenging that can be), and my husband and I were equally satisfied. But after that long journey and a two-month stretch of stress, all I wanted was a meal and a peaceful sleep.

Dining at Club Med Charlevoix

After settling into our room (more details to follow), we headed straight to Le Marché, the buffet restaurant, just before it closed for the evening.

Everyone knows that the best part of an all-inclusive resort is not having to cook, while being surrounded by a world of flavors. We could hardly wait to experience what Le Marché had in store for us.

The restaurant features a spacious open dining area with ample seating, including a section dedicated exclusively to adults. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that every table offers wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. Upon entering, you’ll encounter various serving stations manned by chefs. If you’re accustomed to buffet dining at Caribbean resorts or cruises, you’ll certainly appreciate the selections here. While Le Marché is a more streamlined version of those often extravagant dining experiences, it has no shortage of variety and flavor. There’s something for everyone, from vegans to meat lovers and even picky eaters.

The menu changes daily and highlights local ingredients. You can choose to eat healthily or indulge during your stay.

Le Marché operates at designated times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, if you oversleep and miss breakfast or return late from hiking and miss dinner, don’t worry—you won’t go hungry. There are alternatives. When the buffet is closed, you can grab mid-day snacks and treats in the lounge area, which has a sizable spread that might make you question whether you can still enjoy dinner later. Additionally, you can opt for the resort’s other restaurant, Le Chalet, for a gourmet dining experience.

Exploring the Resort

After our meal, we decided to take a tour of the main building, Block A, which is equipped with everything needed for a memorable stay.

Le Marché and Le Chalet are located on the 5th floor, which also houses the main lounge. This lounge offers various activities, including evening entertainment and aerial classes for kids. It’s a great spot to unwind, play board games, or grab a drink from the large bar. The fifth floor also features sign-up stations for whale watching, tours of Quebec, and other excursions.

On the fourth floor, you’ll find sign-up stations for activities like hiking and mountain biking, along with equipment rooms for various activities. This is also where you’ll likely meet your hiking and biking groups at the back of the building.

The gym, located on the third floor, boasts all the equipment needed for an excellent workout, including free weights and cardio machines, as well as a yoga studio and spinning area. The indoor pool, a family favorite, features hammocks, lounge chairs, and separate shower and changing rooms. Beside the pool is a small area with lily pads perfect for toddlers. Enjoy the hot tub and sundeck located outside, or make use of the Hamam steam room, a favorite spot for me to unwind with the soothing aroma of eucalyptus. The third floor also houses Sothey’s spa, where you can enjoy a range of treatments, from massages to pedicures.

The concierge area can be found on the ground floor of Block A, which also provides access to the hotel parking garage. There is a daily fee for parking in the garage; however, a large complimentary outdoor parking lot is available a short walk from the hotel. We opted for the outdoor lot since we knew we wouldn’t need the car much during our stay, and we weren’t alone; it stays quite full.

By the time we finished our self-tour, we were ready to rest in our room located in Block B (the second building). An interior bridge connects all the buildings, making it easy to move from Block A to B or C without going outside.

Accommodation Options at Club Med Charlevoix

Club Med Charlevoix offers a variety of room configurations, with options facing either the river or the mountains.

We loved our Deluxe Family Room with a river view. Its spacious layout included two distinct living areas, ideal for families of 3-5, allowing kids and adults some separation and privacy. The adult side featured a large queen bed with two nightstands and a TV. The main bathroom conveniently had two separate sections—one with just a toilet, the other with twin sinks and a bathtub/shower combo. There was plenty of space to navigate and ample storage for all our items. Additionally, the adult side had a balcony with a table and two chairs.

While the children’s area was smaller, it suited their needs perfectly. It had two single beds arranged end to end, a two-seater couch (or as the hotel calls it, a “convertible fireside chair”), a TV, and more storage space. The kids could tuck away their belongings easily. Next door, they had their own bathroom with a stand-up shower, sink, and toilet.

A hallway also offered additional storage, perfect for jackets and shoes. At night, the rooms were quiet, leading to restful sleep on comfortable beds.

Activities in Charlevoix, Quebec

While we visited Club Med Charlevoix in the summer, the resort primarily thrives in winter. Set against the stunning backdrop of Le Massif de Charlevoix, which boasts over 50 ski runs and claims the title of “the highest vertical drop east of the Rockies,” it is a paradise for ski enthusiasts and winter lovers alike.

However, there were plenty of summer activities to enjoy during our visit. The resort offers “More than 60 sports and activities,” ensuring you can be as active or relaxed as you prefer.

Many activities come at no extra cost, so make the most of them. These include:

• Guided hikes
• Yoga
• Mountain biking
• Exercise classes
• Kids’ sports

If you’re looking for something more, there are also paid excursions available, such as:

• Whale watching
• Quebec tours
• Gourmet workshops
• Rail Discovery
• Horseback riding
• And more

My husband and I opted to stay active, utilizing the gym, pool, and hiking opportunities. Meanwhile, the kids soaked in relaxation, spending their time in the room, enjoying the pool, trying out the gondola, and taking part in the evening activities. They even made some new friends and exchanged lounging for outdoor soccer a few times.

Don’t miss out on a ride on the gondola! Passes are included with your stay and provided upon check-in. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes from bottom to top, with a midway point where you can disembark.

At the summit of Le Massif, we strolled along a 2-km trail called “Le Buton.” However, if you’re like us and enjoy taking pictures while tracing your steps back, a 2-km walk can easily turn into a 4-km adventure. We found this trail after misinterpreting directions given by a gondola worker regarding another trail. It turned out to be a delightful misstep, leading us to stunning lookout points that reached 30 m in height, offering 360-degree views of the area.

Family Fun at Club Med Charlevoix

Club Med Charlevoix is designed with families in mind. The guiding philosophy is that happy kids lead to happy parents—and they are right.

There’s an array of engaging activities for kids, notably kids’ clubs featuring age-specific programs for children aged 4-17. There’s no extra charge for the clubs, and they’re open most of the day, including evenings. Although our kids aren’t inclined to join kids’ clubs, if you have children or teens seeking independence—or if you’re hoping for a little respite from them—the resort ensures they’ll be entertained with various activities, including hiking, swimming, games, and even circus training. You’ll hardly hear the dreaded “I’m bored” during their stay.

On our final night at the resort, we enjoyed a stage performance featuring children from the kids’ clubs (including older teens). It was clear they had practiced routines encompassing aerial performances, singing, and dance acts throughout their time in the clubs. They performed fantastically, and it was delightful to see the kids enjoying themselves.

Nighttime Activities

If you’re curious about nighttime activities at the resort, you’ll find something to do. However, don’t expect a lively cocktail bar or a bustling dance club, as you might at other resorts. The evening entertainment leans on the simpler side but will definitely put a smile on your face.

Catch professional live performances in the lounge until the nightly shows begin. Entertainment usually kicks off with “Family Time” around 8:00 PM, which includes shows tailored for kids or family activities, such as scavenger hunts. The main program starts after Family Time at around 9:00 PM, showcasing musical numbers, aerial performances, and whimsical shows that, while not quite Broadway caliber, are enjoyable and well worth seeing. Be sure to find a seat early, as spaces fill up quickly.

You might even spot some familiar faces on stage (yes, that’s your concierge performing air guitar). Interestingly, many staff members participate in the evening entertainment. If you stay for several days, don’t be surprised to see some repetition in the programming, which your kids will likely appreciate.

Typically, planned activities conclude around 10 PM, signaling “Party Time.” The lounge remains open until midnight. However, at least during our stay, many guests departed after the primary show and the customary Club Med song and dance (who remembers “Hands Up?”) that takes place every night. So, while the resort isn’t meant for singles looking for a night on the town, on the positive side, you’re on vacation to relax, and nothing beats an early bedtime.

What We Loved About Club Med Charlevoix

The positive aspects of this resort far surpassed any drawbacks. Perhaps what we loved most about Club Med Charlevoix is that it doesn’t feel like your typical resort. Although you feel somewhat isolated in this serene environment, you aren’t deprived of activities or choices. Whether you wish to explore nearby towns, engage in excursions, or remain active on-site, the option is entirely yours. Here are the highlights of what we enjoyed about this retreat:

• Kid-friendly
• Wide range of activities
• Special events
• Designated family-oriented activities
• Separate rooms for families
• Delicious food
• Excursion opportunities
• Evening entertainment
• Swimming pool
• Guided hikes
• Gondola rides
• Proximity to nature
• Gym and steam room facilities

What We Didn’t Love

Honestly, we had very few disappointments at the resort; however, there were a couple of areas worth highlighting:

• Housekeeping: Although the resort provides daily light cleaning, this only involves making the beds. If you have a messy crew, or plan to stay longer than a few days and prefer a deeper clean, you’ll need to request it. Guests in the Exclusive suites benefit from comprehensive daily cleaning services.
• Nightlife: With our kids now older, we could finally leave them alone in the hotel room and enjoy some much-deserved date nights. Unfortunately, the resort doesn’t offer much in terms of romantic outings or dance opportunities, despite having the space for it.

Pro Travel Tips to Enhance Your Stay at Club Med Charlevoix

While the resort encompasses everything you need for a great experience, here are some tips to take your stay to the next level:

• Download the “My Club Med” mobile app. This app serves as your guide to the resort, enabling you to check in, make room requests, and view daily activities and events. Plus, you can check the day’s dress code (if you’d like to participate) before heading out.
• Dress casually. The resort features daily dress code themes (which you can join or ignore). However, leave the chic designer outfits at home; it’s all about comfort and casual elegance here.
• Don’t miss the gondola ride. This experience is a must, showcasing impressive views and heights. If time permits, disembark and explore the mountainside.
• Bring a water bottle. While the resort has a small boutique on the 5th floor, they don’t sell water. However, numerous water stations are accessible throughout the resort, along with hot water, coffee, and fountain drinks. Having our own water bottles made it convenient to stay hydrated in our rooms, during hikes, or at the gym.
• Prepare for bugs. Since Club Med Charlevoix is enveloped by forested mountains, a good bug spray is essential if you plan on hiking or outdoor excursions.
• Consider guided hikes. They offer themed options, ranging from easy family-friendly trails to more challenging ones, all led by knowledgeable guides happy to share the region’s history. I particularly enjoyed the exciting Le Forestier hike, which took us past beautiful waterfalls while our guide explained the maple syrup extraction process and shared intriguing local history. While my guide’s bilingual skills weren’t perfect, fellow hikers ensured I didn’t miss a thing.

• Plan day trips or excursions – if you have the time, take advantage of the opportunity to explore beyond the resort. For instance, we took a day trip to Quebec City, starting with a two-hour double-decker bus tour, followed by lunch in a charming pub. The food was fantastic! We then strolled around, treating ourselves to pastries from a local café before returning to the resort just in time for dinner. If Quebec City is too far (about an hour and a half by car), there are numerous lovely towns in the surrounding area worth visiting, including Charlevoix itself.

Final Thoughts

One of the best aspects of vacationing is shedding worries, schedules, and budgets. Club Med Charlevoix provides that. I felt completely stress-free during our time there. It’s a refreshing feeling to escape and treat ourselves without the inconvenience of long flights. We would certainly return, but given my preference for warmer weather, I’d likely visit again during summer or perhaps in autumn.