Old Montréal is like a city within a city, a slice of Old Europe right in the middle of a major North American city, where one can still hear the hooves of horses, drawing carriages along the meandering cobbled streets. And the Auberge du Vieux-Port is a bit of a trip through time as well—though nominally a boutique, and younger than it looks, the hotel is chock full of historical detail, with rustic touches like timbered ceilings and pine floors and 1882-vintage stone and brick walls.

In the timbered cellar of the hotel is Taverne Gaspar, serving gastropub cuisine with a Quebeçois-French flair, and featuring an unearthed relic from Montréal’s past—a piece of the fortification that originally defended the city. Today the spot from which to survey the waterfront is in the Auberge’s guest rooms, fifteen of which face the Old Port, many with whirlpool baths. All are immersive, comfortable, and are decorated in the same rustic romantic style as the restaurant and public rooms. The loft suites have kitchenettes, and are a short walk from the hotel; some have wood-burning fireplaces.

It’s the best of two distinct hotel traditions—all the character and history of an authentic French country inn, and all the services (and space) of a modern boutique. All the necessities are present, including wi-fi internet, and the rooftop terrace is a low-tech pleasure, offering panoramic views of the St. Lawrence river and the surrounding Vieux-Port district. One note for guests with mobility issues: the "Loft" portion of the hotel (which will appear on some of the available rooms) is in a separate walk-up building.

Style: Contemporary Classic

Atmosphere: Quiet

45 Rooms - Rates starting at CAN$ 159.00 (approx. US$ 156)