The first impression is formed on the narrow road that winds through the forest. Beyond the trees, a tranquil bay opens up, and there lies the Manoir Hovey in Quebec. We spent a night here during a research trip through the Eastern Townships. The hotel feels like a retreat where time seems to slow down. Our room had a four-poster bed and a fireplace that warmed the room in the evening. The view over Lake Massawippi created a sense of peace that was immediately apparent. In this article, you'll find our impressions and tips if you're planning a stay yourself.
- Our Itinerary through Eastern Canada shows you other places that go well with Manoir Hovey.
- If you are interested in regional cuisine, you can find our information about it here. Food in Quebec.
Stay overnight at Manoir Hovey – two hours south of Montreal
Manoir Hovey is located in southern Quebec, in the Eastern Townships regionNorth Hatley is located about two hours from Montreal. The landscape is characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and small towns that have retained their tranquility. Many travelers come for the proximity to nature. Others seek a hotel that combines tradition and serenity. The region is well-suited for getaways because distances are short and many destinations are situated on the water.
Many guests associate their stay at Manoir Hovey with a few days in MontrealYou can read here about how Montreal and the Eastern Townships can be meaningfully combined.
In autumn, the forests turn deep red. In winter, silence descends, and the hills surrounding the lake appear almost untouched. This combination makes the Eastern Townships a place that appears in many novels—including those of Louise Penny. Her fictional village of Three Pines reminds us of North Hatley. This very feeling accompanies us during our stay at Manoir Hovey.
Location on Lake Massawippi
The hotel is somewhat hidden among tall trees. From the jetty, you can see the lake stretching far into the hills. We spend the afternoon on our room's balcony because the view is so calming. Lounge chairs are scattered among flowerbeds on the grounds. There you can read or simply gaze at the sky. Those who want to be active can rent a canoe and paddle a short distance on the water. This makes the hotel feel like a small microcosm.
Our room with fireplace
The room isn't large, but it feels just right. Our four-poster bed has a mattress we immediately sink into. Two wingback chairs stand by the window, becoming our favorite spot in the evening. We make ourselves an espresso and light the fireplace. The warmth quickly fills the room, creating an atmosphere that's hard to describe. It's reminiscent of old movies, where everyday life seems a world away. The bathroom matches the style of the house. It's simple, but the lamps and Art Nouveau details make it feel very charming.
Louise Penny and the mood of the region
Three Pines, the central setting of Louise Penny's novels, is fictional. Yet here, it feels incredibly real. The woods, the hills, and the quiet streets perfectly match the image we know from the books. At the Manoir Hovey, there's even a suite that references one of her works. If you enjoy the Gamache mysteries, you'll find subtle parallels to the literary world throughout. The hotel lounge reinforces this feeling. It's furnished with bookshelves, comfortable armchairs, and lamps that cast a warm glow. We sit there for a while, almost losing track of time.
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Dining at the hotel – An evening full of impressions
Dinner is one of those moments that will stay with us forever. The kitchen uses many regional products. The courses are not overly elaborate. We try morels with brie and herbs, later salmon on asparagus, and a piece of beef fillet with vegetables. The service is quick to adapt to our needs. One waiter even speaks German and tells us that he used to be a professional soccer player. This encounter makes the evening even more special.
Enjoy a dinner in an ambience with style
At Manoir Hovey in Quebec, we were served the best meal of our trip. That's saying something, considering that almost every hotel and restaurant we visited along the way spoiled us with regional specialties and delicacies. Here, however, we reached the pinnacle of Quebec cuisine. Our menu included courses that couldn't have been more delicious. Alongside morels with brie and herb salad, there were tomatoes with roast beef and herbs, salmon on asparagus with gnocchi and walnuts, beef tenderloin on a bed of vegetables, and finally, an ice cream dessert. Each course was a masterpiece.
Things to do around North Hatley
North Hatley is ideal for leisurely day trips. Many paths run along the water. Some visitors come for the Eastern Townships wine route, which winds through villages and hills. We'll visit the Bleu Lavande Lavender Farm and later drive through wine towns like Sutton and Knowlton. These destinations are close together, allowing you to plan a relaxed day. Those who prefer to stay at the hotel can enjoy the pool or the spa with its sauna, steam room, and lake access.
Who is the Manoir Hovey suitable for?
Manoir Hovey caters to travelers who appreciate a tranquil setting. Located somewhat off the beaten path, it's ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking a one- or two-day getaway. Our room demonstrated the hotel's commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere. The fireplace made the stay particularly pleasant in autumn or winter. The hotel restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients. The cuisine is clear and focused, without any unnecessary gimmicks. The service is attentive yet unobtrusive.
If you book through one of the offers marked with an asterisk (*), we receive a commission. The price remains the same for you.
Current availability and booking can be found here:
• Manor Hovey – North Hatley*
Practical tips
- Most journeys take place via Montreal – if you're staying overnight there, you can find our experiences here. Accommodation in Montreal.
- about a two-hour drive to North Hatley
- Parking directly at the hotel
- Best times: Autumn for colors, winter for peace and quiet
- Reserve a restaurant for the evening
- lightweight hiking shoes for walks
- Half a day is ideal for the wine route.
FAQ about Manoir Hovey in Quebec
Is Manoir Hovey worth a short stay?
Yes. The lakeside location has a calming effect and is well-suited for a weekend getaway.
Are there rooms with a fireplace?
Some rooms have a fireplace. You should check this when booking.
Is it possible to travel there in winter?
The roads are well cleared. A winter trip is possible and very atmospheric.
If you're looking for a quiet break in the Eastern Townships If you're looking for more tips on places, routes and accommodations in Quebec, you'll find them here.
Travel Arrangements:
Getting to Manoir Hovey in Quebec:
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Hotels other than Manoir Hovey in Quebec:
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Source: On-site research with the support of Tourism Quebec and CTC. We would like to thank you for this. However, our opinions remain our own.
Text: © Copyright Monika Fuchs (co-author of the travel guide Canada East from Iwanowski Verlag) and TravelWorldOnline
Photos © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Video © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline