Mont Tremblant's Hôtel Quintessence sets the standard for classic luxury and casual elegance in the Quebec countryside, thanks to its gorgeous suites, creative cuisine, lakefront setting and slopeside convenience.
"Quintessence is romantic at any time, not only on Valentine's Day," said managing partner Sean O'Donnell. "Our Clagett's Cabin, an exquisite hideaway, is the ultimate in privacy."
Indulgences in all Quintessence suites include a long soak in a two-person bathtub that overlooks Lac Tremblant, followed by a couple's massage in front of the fireplace. The day ends on a four-poster bed with custom-made mattress, fine Egyptian cotton sheets and a duvet so heavy that it takes three housekeepers to fluff it.
"All of our menus are meant to stir your passions, but we have added a few love potions for the occasion," said Quintessence executive chef Lindsay Petit, who is planning a Valentine's dinner for Feb. 12, 13 and 14 that will include a spa gift and homemade truffles. "And the cuisine is light enough to dance or make romance after dinner."
The menu includes bisque of Acadian oysters laced with Labrador tea, tuna with wild cranberries from Natashquan, sweetbreads with pine mushrooms from James Bay, Nova Scotia lobster saffron risotto or filet mignon with truffles. The dessert, a tartlet of raspberry, essence of wild rose and white chocolate, will make you swoon, Petit said.
Even breakfast at Quintessence is sumptuous. The tiny vials of ginseng served with fruit salad should provide a libidinous Valentine's rush.
Quintessence is an oasis of tranquility adjacent to Mont Tremblant's bustling skiers' village. The hotel also spoils its guests with a spa, top-drawer gym, wine cellar, valet parking, concierge service and a Land Rover shuttle.
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