The Laurentians First Lady….
La Sapinière is an institution. In 2006, La Sapinière celebrates its 70th anniversary! What a story and how many memories are hidden within those walls. In 1936, the Mayor, Mr. Léonidas Dufresne built this 20 room inn to generate work for the villagers. His son, Jean-Louis then 17 years old, manages the inn. Supported by his wife, Mr Dufresne works tirelessly to ensure that guests will always be warmly welcomed. He contributes largely to tourism development in the Laurentians and that of the hospitality industry. Even before the creation of the Hotel School, La Sapinière was offering training in hospitality
to ensure its guest would always be attended by professional and highly qualified staff.
The Dufresnes chose to feature gastronomy. Famous chefs like Mr Marcel Kretz who reigned in the kitchen for 30 years, have greatly contributed to La Sapinière’s fame. Through their travels in Europe, Mr and Mrs Dufresne brought back many ideas they implemented at La Sapinière which allowed Quebec’s gastronomy to grow.
At La Sapinière, major events took place within its walls, G7 and NATO meetings to name but a few. Many celebrities stayed at La Sapiniere, among them, the King Olaf of Norway, for whom Mr. Dufresne created the executive suite 222 and the famous actor Omar Sharif. The Montréal Canadiens were staying at La Sapinière during the Stanley Cup matches. Famous people started their career; Jules Roiseux and Jacques Orhon, famous wine editors.
The industry has recognized Mr. Dufresne’s contribution on many occasions. Amongst the many awards bestowed onto him, let us mention the «Grand prix d’Excellence from Tourism Canada and Tourism Québec», the « Premier Prix provincial du Mérite de la Restauration », « L’Hôtelier of the Year » et « l’ Ordre du Mérite Hôtelier ». In 2002 la Société des Alcools du Québec created the « Prix des Ambassadeurs du vin au Québec »and Mr. Dufresne was its first recipient.
Over the years, the inn expands and becomes a hotel complexe featuring 68 rooms and suites, a bar, a prestigious dining room, a wine cellar envied by wine enthusiasts, a tasting room and a complete convention services department. The Dufresnes owned La Sapinière for 65 years. In 1998, their daughter, Marie-Andrée, becomes president and manages the hotel with the team’s support.
After her father’s death in 2003, Mademoiselle Dufresne chose to sell the hotel. Immediately after the announcement, many potential buyers presented serious offers. All were aware of the value of
La Sapinière. Marie Andrée has vowed to select the person or group that would best preserve her father’s dream. Hence, the Fenzar family, established in Québec for more than 20 years. Mr Fenzar was a regular guest. He cherished the dream to acquire a hotel that looked like La Sapinière. After searching for a while, the Fenzar family took over La Sapinière on December 18, 2003. Mr. Fenzar’s wish was granted. It is true that no other hotel looks quite like La Sapinière.
Over the Holiday period, Mr. and Mrs Fenzar met with guests to gather their comments. In January,
Mr Fenzar together with its management team sets the priorities. He wishes to improve all services and better address the guest’s needs. In less than eighteen months, the Lobby has been redecorated as well as the dining room, the bar, and the Dufresne, La Volière and des Cèdres meeting rooms. Most guest rooms have been refreshed. A private living room has been added. All guestrooms now feature minibars, safety deposits, irons andironing boards. Even La Villa has been refurbished and is now serviced by a helipad. The parking lot has been rebuilt and new pedal boats have been purchased. In winter, guests can use the driving range adding to the array of activities available to them.
Our Chef, Mr Daniel St-Pierre, has prepared new menus, monthly themes and offers also his inspiration of the moment. Friday and Saturday evenings, cocktails, music and dance await you.
Many other renovation projects are being undertaken. What will never change is the warm hospitality and the professional service that are our trade marks and the reason why so many guests return year after year.
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Copyright © 2006 Hôtel La Sapinière inc. Tous droits réservés
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