Le Roquemont, a pride signed Portneuf!
Saint-Raymond has always been renowned for its dynamism. This small town of 10,000 people is located in Portneuf, about 45 minutes west of Quebec City. When you go to snowmobile shows in Ontario and the United States, it's always amazing to see how well known this destination is to these customers. The Americans often talk about the famous Roquemont Hotel! It was with joy and enthusiasm that I introduced my colleagues from SledMagazine.com to this institution at our annual traveling convention.
Those who had not come for a few years were overwhelmed by its great evolution. Indeed, Roquemont has experienced a real rejuvenation cure over the last 7 years. In 2011, the owners announced their ambitious development project of more than $1.6 million.
Accommodation
The 27 existing rooms were first renovated and then they add 14 new rooms in an adjacent building. There are 41 welcoming and up-to-date rooms with a decoration that remember of the forested origins of the town of Saint-Raymond. The addition of a fenced parking lot makes snowmobilers sleep quietly because they know that their snowmobile is safe.
Restaurant
The restaurant was also revamped. Except for the traditional central fireplace, everything has been revised! In addition to the completely new decor, the owners set up its new microbrewery-style menu. Visitors only have eyes for the Coureur des Bois poutine, the boudin noir chef de rang and the beef tartare à la bière. The restaurant also offers musical performances that will make your dinners even more enjoyable. Finally, there are now several rooms that can accommodate 30,50 and even 70 guests at a time.
Microbrewery
The new microbrewery is certainly what made this great transformation a success. The Roquemont now brews its own beers on site. You will also be able to admire the brewers' work, which is clearly visible thanks to the large windows separating them from the dining room/bar. Nearly 20 creations are offered alternately and some of them are bottled for sale at local merchants. I recommend the "Charlotte", a succulent red beer named after Charlotte Côté, instigator of the microbrewery project and a great ambassador of Saint-Raymond.
The base camp
With its new facilities, Le Roquemont has become the true base camp for all outdoor activities in the region. In winter, snowmobilers meet there on the Trans-Québec Trail #23. Indeed, it is a central point from where you can go to the Étape, La Tuque, and Quebec City. A multitude of tours is available to allow fans to spend several days in the area. Saint-Raymond is also recognized as a destination with snow very early and late in the season. The hotel is also adjacent to an Arctic Cat and Yamaha dealership and a gas station. A BRP dealer is located a few kilometers away.
In the summer season, tourists will appreciate the proximity of the Bras du Nord Valley mountain bike trails, which are directly in the hotel parking lot. In addition, a bicycle retailer is on site to meet the needs of visitors.
In conclusion, Roquemont is THE place to go and enjoy a quality summer and winter experience!
The SledMagazine.com team would like to thank Mr. Claude Renaud for his warm welcome during our convention. It was a real pleasure to share an excellent meal with him. I'll see you soon!
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