This winter, Club Med will debut its exclusive ski resort in North America—an all-inclusive experience.
Club Med is renowned for its all-inclusive resorts featuring a laid-back beach atmosphere, excellent dining, lively poolside activities, enthusiastic G.O.'s (short for Gentils Organisateurs, the brand's staff), and offerings like flying trapeze lessons included in your package. You'll find Club Med locations throughout Mexico, the Caribbean, and the U.S., including the Club Med Sandpiper in Florida.
Opening on December 3, 2021, Club Med Québec in Canada's picturesque Charlevoix region will introduce a groundbreaking all-inclusive ski vacation experience, poised to compete with high-end destinations in Colorado, British Columbia, and beyond.
Image courtesy of Club Med QuebecThe concept of all-inclusive ski vacations is not new for Club Med. Besides the upcoming Canadian resort, the brand operates 13 all-inclusive ski and snow resorts across the Alps, primarily in France, with locations in Switzerland (Saint Moritz) and the Piedmont region of Italy as well.
The launch of Club Med Québec will be the brand's inaugural venture into the all-inclusive ski vacation market in Canada, charting new territory for them.
During my stay at Club Med Val Thorens Sensations in the French Alps years ago, I quickly became a fan of the all-inclusive ski experience, enjoying the convenience and savings of having all meals and drinks covered—plus those typically pricey extras like lessons and lift tickets. Ski vacations can quickly become expensive, especially when you factor in children and their ski lessons, lift passes, and dining needs.
I recall meeting a family from Singapore at the Club Med Val Thorens Sensations, who had multiple kids with them. They mentioned their children were having such a blast at the kids and teens clubs that it was nearly impossible to get them to join for family meals; the kids were off enjoying dinner with their new friends instead.
Curious about what to expect when Club Med Québec opens this winter in Canada? Keep reading for insights.
Image courtesy of Club Med QuebecThe 300-room resort, nestled on 300 acres in the Charlevoix region—just an hour's drive from Quebec City International Airport—is currently listing prices starting at $160 per adult, per night for late ski season dates next year, specifically from April 9 to April 16, 2022.
According to the website, standard rates at the resort will begin at $355 per adult, per night.
That may seem high at first glance. However, considering everything that's bundled into an all-inclusive ski vacation, it quickly feels like a great deal—especially when compared to other expensive ski resorts in North America, where walk-up lift tickets can easily approach $200 per person, per day. We're looking at you, Aspen.
Every stay at the ski-in/ski-out Club Med Québec includes all meals and drinks, lift tickets to the ski area at Le Massif de Charlevoix, and group ski and snowboard lessons—all at no additional charge.
Image courtesy of Club Med QuebecThe resort's kids club, catering to ages 4 to 17, is included in the rates, along with ski and snowboard lessons (try pricing that in Colorado or Utah!). Also covered are all resort entertainment, Wi-Fi, and tips for staff.
The only expense not included in your ski vacation package is the rental gear, which is available for rent on-site.
When it comes to dining, Club Med is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, and we have no doubts that Club Med Québec will uphold this standard, especially given its location in the culinary hotspot of Quebec.
The resort features three on-site restaurants, including the brand's signature food-hall style venue, which will celebrate the region's and French mountain specialties, offering delights like fondue and raclette (be sure to check out the family-friendly Terroir & Co.). Expect to find local Québec cheeses, charcuterie, maple taffy, and other traditional dishes, along with a variety of international options.
With an open bar included in the all-inclusive rates, your après-ski bar tab—and any other extras—essentially vanishes from your ski vacation costs.
Other après-ski activities available on-site include unwinding at the Club Med Spa by Sothys, featuring a sauna and a terrace with a hot tub that offers stunning views of the Charlevoix region (treatments are available for an additional fee).
For those who don't ski, the all-inclusive rates cover additional winter activities like snowshoeing, Nordic walking, and ice skating. You can also opt for paid experiences like dog sledding and snowmobile tours.
This property is not just a winter destination, either.
Image courtesy of Club Med QuebecClub Med Québec will be the brand's first mountain resort to operate year-round (and it's also the first ski resort with water views), offering activities in spring, summer, and fall, including guided hikes, mountain biking, and circus school.
From early spring through fall, guests can enjoy whale-watching tours on the St. Lawrence River for an additional fee. The region is especially stunning in autumn, making it a prime destination for leaf-peeping.
Bottom line
Having already witnessed how effectively Club Med executes the all-inclusive ski vacation at various European locations, we are eager for this opening, which was initially planned for 2020. The all-inclusive ski concept is set to revolutionize the North American market—and if anyone knows how to do it right, it's Club Med.
1
2
3
4
5
Evaluation :
5/5