StoneHaven Le Manoir Relais & Châteaux

The hotel is a beautifully renovated historical manor that offers a serene and luxurious escape, often described as a hidden gem in the Laurentian mountains. Its affiliation with Relais & Châteaux signifies a commitment to high standards, which is frequently highlighted by guests. The property's tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make it an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat. It also caters well to sightseers and those interested in outdoor activities, with access to hiking trails and proximity to local attractions. While primarily appealing to those seeking relaxation and fine dining, its unique charm also makes it suitable for business travelers attending meetings. To fully appreciate the hotel's rich past, guests are strongly encouraged to take the informative historical tour, and for optimal comfort, consider requesting a room in the newer pavilion or inquiring about specific bed configurations.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently praise the hotel's impressive array of facilities and amenities, designed for relaxation and enjoyment. The outdoor heated pool is a particular highlight, enjoyed even during winter with falling snow, offering a unique and refreshing experience. Adjacent to the pool, a large hot tub provides a perfect spot for unwinding. The Hammam steam bath, often described as impressive and built into the mountain, offers a luxurious wellness experience, though some guests noted the dry sauna was occasionally out of service or not hot enough. While the fitness center is considered small, it provides adequate equipment for a basic workout. The hotel also features numerous sitting areas, a cozy library, and a welcoming bar area, providing comfortable spaces for guests to relax with a book or a drink. Additionally, the availability of EV charging is a convenient feature for electric car owners.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is generally positive, though with some notable variations. Most guests find the rooms to be tastefully decorated and clean, often highlighting the comfortable beds and high-quality linens that ensure a restful sleep. Many appreciate the spacious bathrooms, some featuring walk-in showers or soaking tubs, and modern touches like heated floors. Some rooms are described as luxurious and well-appointed, with amenities such as Nespresso coffee machines and Molton Brown products. However, some guests found their rooms to be small, with a few describing furniture as old and ancient, and some reported issues with low windows offering no view or a view of a fence. A few guests mentioned a lack of blackout curtains, leading to early morning light, or the absence of a mini-fridge or in-room coffee maker in certain rooms. Noise levels are generally low, contributing to a peaceful stay, though some older sections may have creaky floors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining and food quality consistently receive high praise, often described as a highlight of the stay. The restaurant offers an exceptional culinary experience, with many guests calling the gourmet cuisine "sublime," "delicious," and "outstanding." The dinner service, particularly the multi-course discovery menu with its expertly chosen wine pairing, is frequently lauded for its creativity and presentation. Guests appreciate the knowledgeable sommelier who enhances the meal with insightful recommendations. Breakfast is also well-regarded, with options like French Toast receiving specific mention for their quality. While the food is generally excellent, some guests noted that the bar service could be slow, and a few isolated comments mentioned issues with specific dishes, such as burnt toast or steak not cooked to order. There is no room service available, which some guests noted as a minor inconvenience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a beautiful setting in the Laurentian mountains, offering a secluded location that provides tranquility and stunning natural views, particularly overlooking Lac des Sables. This makes it an ideal spot for guests seeking a peaceful retreat away from urban bustle. Its proximity to Ste-Agathe-des-Monts allows for easy access to local amenities and attractions. The property is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, with direct access to hiking trails and opportunities for snowshoeing in winter. While generally easy to access, some guests mentioned that the entrance can be difficult to find at night, and the driveway can be slippery in winter conditions. Parking is available on-site, and the presence of EV charging stations is a convenient addition for guests with electric vehicles.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel are overwhelmingly praised, often cited as a key reason for guests' exceptional experiences. Reviewers consistently describe the team as friendly, helpful, attentive, and highly professional. From the moment of arrival, guests feel genuinely welcomed, with many highlighting the impeccable service provided by the concierge, front desk, and restaurant staff. The check-in process is generally smooth and efficient. Staff members are noted for going "above and beyond" to accommodate requests, whether it's providing a historical tour of the manor, assisting with luggage, or ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The bilingual staff are appreciated for their ability to cater to a diverse clientele. While isolated incidents of slow bar service or perceived rudeness were mentioned, the vast majority of feedback emphasizes the staff's dedication to creating a memorable and comfortable stay.

Additional Information
Guests frequently highlight the hotel's fascinating historical tour of the manor, led by knowledgeable ambassadors, as a must-do activity that enriches the overall experience by delving into the property's unique past and architectural details. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, with staff showing kindness and accommodation towards guests traveling with their animals, even assisting with specific needs like providing a mini-fridge for pet food. Its affiliation with the prestigious Relais & Châteaux association is often mentioned as a testament to its high standards and unique character, setting it apart as a top-tier destination. However, some guests expressed disappointment regarding the hotel's policy of not allowing access to facilities like the pool or gardens after checkout, especially given the relatively late check-in time of 4 PM. This policy can limit the time guests have to fully enjoy the amenities on their departure day, leading to a feeling of a shortened stay despite the overall positive experience.