If you’re longing to practice your French, experience farm-to-table dining or upscale continental cuisine, shop in lovely boutiques and art galleries while meandering down cobblestone streets, look no further than beautiful Montreal.
The stay
Le Place d’Armes Hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Old Montreal – steps from Notre Dame Basilica. as well as the famous 7′ statues by Marc-Andre J. Fortier – The English Pug and The French Poodle. The port of Montreal is a few blocks away as well as charming St. Paul street, where art galleries abound.
The hotel is made up of three connected 19th century neoclassical buildings. Our room was classic with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, espresso machine and flat screen TV. The bed was perfectly firm. The bathroom could have used an update and lacked a modern shower head. Every time the water was turned on the hand shower head would shoot up and drench the hanging towels.
The Terrasse Le Place d’Armes rooftop bar is perfect for long summer evenings with beautiful views of the rooftops.
Location: Perfect
Staff: Informative, helpful, professional
Rooms: Classic
The Restaurants
Au Pied de Cochon (translation: Pig’s Foot) spotlights everything pig, foie gras and duck. It is a carnivore’s dream restaurant. Have you ever had duck in a can?
Relais & Chateaux Restaurant Europea is whimsical fine dining at it’s best. The restaurant, as well as the cuisine, is a study of contrasts. The restaurant is located in a Victorian house but filled with ultra-modern decor. The food is both familiar and new, accentuated by both Quebecois and Catalan flavors. Chef Jerome Ferrer is a master. Perhaps you will be served a clothes line with prosciutto hanging from it. Or you may be offered a cigar in a box that turns out to be croquettes. Either way, you will be inspired by the chef’s innovation.
Tip: Need a coffee break? Stop in at Cafe Myriade in the basement of Club Monaco.
Activities
A great way to spend the afternoon is taking a 60 or 90 minute cruise up the St. Lawrence River. Cruise lines include Le Bateau-Mouche
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