Nestled on the shores of Lake Massawippi in the village of North Hatley, Manoir Hovey is one of Quebec’s most celebrated country inns. The property dates back to 1900 and was inspired by George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate in Virginia, with its distinctive white clapboard exterior, grand columns, and sweeping verandas overlooking the lake. Since 1979, the hotel has been owned and lovingly stewarded by the Stafford family, who transformed it into one of Canada’s premier luxury retreats and a longtime member of Relais & Châteaux.
While the setting remains undeniably beautiful, parts of the original manor and some of the older accommodations are beginning to show their age and could benefit from a refresh. Fortunately, the newer lakefront accommodations, where we stayed, are a different story altogether. Spacious, bright, and beautifully designed, they take full advantage of the tranquil lake views and offer a much more contemporary luxury experience.
Dining has long been one of Manoir Hovey’s greatest strengths, and the food continues to live up to its reputation. The kitchen showcases the bounty of Quebec’s Eastern Townships with thoughtful, seasonal dishes that are beautifully prepared and presented. The one drawback is the pace of service. Meals move at a decidedly leisurely country tempo, which may be charming for some, but if you’re in a hurry, this is probably not the place for you.
The front desk staff were pleasant enough, but I did not find the service particularly polished or exceptional. This is very much a country hotel, and the service reflects that relaxed atmosphere rather than the highly attentive style found at some luxury properties.
One of the highlights of our stay was the recently opened spa. Beautifully designed and thoughtfully laid out, it offers an impressive range of treatments. I enjoyed both a massage and a foot treatment, and found the therapists to be excellent. The spa features three distinct relaxation areas, a lovely outdoor pool, a hot pool, and a cold plunge. The only thing missing was a small selection of healthy snacks for guests spending several hours enjoying the facilities.
The property itself is perfectly suited to those looking to slow down and reconnect with nature. Guests can borrow a boat to explore the calm waters of Lake Massawippi on their own or arrange for a driver. There are pleasant walking trails on the grounds, inviting guests to enjoy the peaceful surroundings at their own pace.
Manoir Hovey may no longer feel quite as polished as it once did, but its stunning lakeside setting, excellent cuisine, beautiful new accommodations, and outstanding spa continue to make it one of Quebec’s most appealing country escapes.
Happy travelling,
Shanea
6/23/2026
