The Manoir Papineau
If you only have a few hours to discover the surroundings of our resort, take this time to do a guided tour of The Manoir Papineau National Historic Site and explore our 156 acres while horseback riding or walking our well-maintained trails.
Part of the grounds of Fairmont Le Château Montebello, The Manoir Papineau National Historic Site is a unique example of a seigniorial manor that belonged to Louis-Joseph Papineau, lord of the Petite-Nation. Built in 1850, the manor's architecture, as well as the facilities surrounding the manor, reflect Louis-Joseph Papineau's culture and personality. The Grain Shed and the Papineau family's Funeral Chapel are open to the public.
The Manoir Papineau National Historic Site is open from mid-May to the end of October. The visit takes approximately 1 hour. Their hours of operation are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 7 days a week. Reservations are required and can be made through our activity desk located in the lobby. Horseback riding is available from May to November and also requires a reservation. If you choose to walk our trails, be sure to ask at the activity desk for a site map. This itinerary takes in total 2 ½ hours to complete.
Sports Chalet
Fairmont le Chateau Montebello’s onsite Sports Chalet can provide you with a full day of activity for the family. Begin your day with a bike ride on the many trails amongst the densely forested grounds of the property while breathing in the fresh backcountry air. If the trails aren’t your thing, we encourage you to experience the quaint village of Montebello by bike. Check out the local shops and perhaps have lunch in a small café. Tandem bicycles are also available if you’d rather have someone else do the pedaling for you… Bicycles and helmets are available for rent at the Sport Chalet each day during the warm months.
After your ride, slow down the pace with a round of mini golf on Fairmont le Chateau Montebello’s 18-hole course. A fun, family-friendly way to practice your short game before hitting the adjacent 18-hole golf course the next day. Clubs and balls are available at the Sports Chalet.
Finally, complete your day by lounging at the outdoor pool in the warm afternoon sun. Grab a drink and put your feet up in our comfy lounge chairs or cool off in the pool between tanning sessions. Towels are available from the Sports Chalet for your use around the pool.
Wilderness Adventure
Africa has lion watching, and the Maritimes have their whale watching, but in Montebello we have bear watching. At the entrance to Fairmont Kenauk, hop aboard a safari-style bus for a drive to a local bear watching observation point. In the safety of the fully enclosed, 7-foot high viewing platform, you will have the chance to view some of the local wildlife, including bears, in their natural habitat. Although sightings of the bears cannot be guaranteed, guests have sighted bears 96% of the time in previous years. A professional guide will accompany you on your adventure and provide you with insightful information on the local flora and fauna. Along the trek to the platform, guests will have the chance to witness deer moose, and many species of bird. This is a safe, exciting and educational opportunity well suited to the entire family.
The trek begins at 1pm and 4pm daily in June, July and August. During May and September the trek is available each weekend, and during the week by request. The trek lasts 3 hours and youngsters are asked to be over the age of 7. Reservations can be made at the Activity Desk of Fairmont le Chateau Montebello.
Parc Oméga
Located close by the Fairmont Kenauk is a protected 1,500-acre wildlife habitat. Guests can experience many wild animals, including Red deer, Corsican Moufflon, Wapiti, Deer, Bison, Wolves and many more, depending on the season and all from the safety of their own vehicle. Guests drive along a ten-kilometer drive where the animals are literally feet from your vehicle. For more information on the park, visit Parc Oméga’s website. Driving directions are available from the activity desk in the hotel.
Winter Excursions
Winter at Fairmont Kenauk is truly a magical, beautiful time in Quebec. With copious amounts of snow for the outdoor adventurer, activities abound at Fairmont Kenauk. Cross country skiing is surely a perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon in the snow and our 18.5km of trails are the perfect setting. From beginners to experts, guests will find a trail that is suitable to their experience level and where memories are sure to occur. Equipment is available from the ski shop in town and directions are available from the activity desk in the hotel.
If the thought of gliding through the snow on skis isn’t quite your thing, though, perhaps gliding along on a sleigh is more enchanting. Enjoy a beautiful horse drawn sleigh ride around the Fairmont property as you sip hot cocoa under a fuzzy blanket. A perfect way to relax and enjoy the fresh air, or even recover from your morning ski. Reservations for the sleigh ride can be made at the activity desk in the hotel. Departures are every hour from 10am to 4pm.