First stop: Le Château Cartier Relais & Resort. Brand new guest rooms were unveiled to the attendees. “Our hotel will be going through many major renovations and expansions over the next year, in order to transform it into a boutique hotel”, explained Marie-Michelle Gauthier, account executive. Offering numerous meeting rooms, with more in the works, a golf course as well as a health spa, the Château Cartier Relais & Resort already lives up to its name! - Credit photo : Château Cartier Relais & Resort

Next up on the tour was a visit of the Canadian Museum of Civilization, and it charmed the 25guests ready to see its wonders and all were very impressed! Positive comments were overheard from all sides while overlooking the Great Gallery,with its impressive height, complete with panoramic windows overlooking the Outaouais River, Parliament Hill and the National Gallery of Canada. Simply breathtaking! In this ball room, the organizers had set up a sole table, long and oval-shaped, draped with a golden cloth. Adding to the drama was special lighting worthy of the biggest stars and background music to perfectly set the mood – a soft melody, dreamlike, with perfectly orchestrated flair. The harpist was alone on the stage, hired for this event. With a few cocktail tables spread out for the dessert, delectable fare was offered with impeccable service. A magical evening, to say the least. - Credit photo : Jean Chartrand.

That was the kick off of the week-end. Over the course of the next few days, the participants were greeted like kings and queens at each of the chosen hotels. They had the opportunity to relax and enjoy Le Nordik - Nature Spa. The day’s weather was ideal for a visit of this wellness centre offering various Scandinavian relaxation techniques. With a few degrees below zero and a beautiful sun, what could be better to hop from Finnish sauna to the Nordic waterfall followed by a much appreciated rest by the outdoor fireplace? This experience is truly unique in the Outaouais. - Credit photo : Le Nordik - Nature Spa

Close by in Chelsea, Les Fougères Restaurant served up a cocktail worthy of the many prestigious prizes awarded to the establishment over the years. A few hours later, it was Le St-Estèphe’s turn to host this lucky group with a sensational menu with a “Maple” theme.  While remaining subtle, each dish offered a little twist. Hats off to the team for pulling off such great service on a busy Saturday night. The final touch was maple taffy on snow! While the attendees were quite full, these surprising treats disappeared in a matter of seconds.

Credit photo : Les Fougères

The evening was young so off to the Casino du Lac Leamy they went, for those looking to try their luck with a little more action and atmosphere. Followed by a well-earned good night’s sleep at the Ramada Plaza Manoir du Casino (each suite is equipped with a fireplace). The next morning, the delegates were well rested and ready for more. Who says Sunday says…Sunday brunch! L’Arôme, a 5 star restaurant inside the Hilton Lac Leamy, had all the details covered. Another delightful culinary experience for all, slowly digested while visiting the convention centre of the hotel with its modern technology and full service team.

One last stop on the tour! The Outaouais is always grateful for the majestic Fairmont Château Montebello, its second 5 star hotel located only an hour from Montreal. With a charming countryside setting on the shores of the Outaouais River, the log Château offers over 60,000 acres complete with every type of activity for teambuilding: even curling! A sport that the group just adored, even if a few resorted to cheating! The resort has many options for group outings with cozy and comfy guest rooms.  To crown it all off the guests had an hour trip back home in a deluxe coach bus to slowly get back to reality. Credit photo : Fairmont Château Montebello