The Laurentians First Lady….
La Sapinière is an institution. In 2006, 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, manage the inn. Supported by his wife, Mr Dufresne
worked tirelessly to ensure that guests would always be warmly welcomed. He contributed 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 guests would always
be attended to by a 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 that 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
ear » 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 expanded and became a hotel complexe featuring 64 rooms and suites, a bar,
a prestigious dining room, a wine cellar envied by wine enthusiasts, a wine tasting room and a
complete meeting services department. The Dufresnes owned La Sapinière for 65 years. In 1998,
their daughter, Marie-Andrée, became President and managed the hotel with the support of the team.
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 had 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 18th, 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 his management team set the priorities. He wish to improve all services and
better add 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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© Hôtel La Sapinière inc. Tous droits réservés
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