Having been to Québec City a few times, I really didn’t know what to expect of the recently opened Hotel Pur. I’d popped my head into the lobby on a previous trip when I was exploring the hotel’s neighborhood of Saint-Roch and it looked futuristic.
This former Holiday Inn has been totally revamped and is now the largest contemporary hotel in the city. It’s carved a niche for itself among the cookie-cutter chains, the smaller B & B’s, and the grander historic properties. Walking into the brightly colored all white reception area immediately makes you feel like you on a sci-fi film set. The efficient check-in process is completed in a matter of minutes and you’re on your way to your room.
When the elevator door opens to your floor, you instantly realize you’re not in Kansas anymore. The hallway is completely the opposite of the lobby, a dimly lit visual expanse of black. Statement made … clean slate. Inside your room it’s back to a cool as a cucumber vibe with mirrors, abstract prints, splashes of bright orange and a gun metal grey tiled bath with Aveda amenities. In a daring feng shui move, the cozy and comfortable all white bed faces a floor to ceiling window with a panoramic view of the city. Add a cushy divan in front of that window and the effect is one of sitting on a cloud. Each of the 242 spacious rooms also includes complimentary Wi-Fi, a tidy work station with fully stocked mini-bar, an MP3 compatible clock radio and oversized flat screen television.
The usually standard coffee maker, however, is auspiciously missing. I later discover a high tech Italian machine is available 24 hours in the lobby for guest usage, with complimentary cappuccino, mocha, latte and brewed java, as well as a full selection of teas. The property also boasts Québec’s largest indoor pool with great views of the surrounding skyline. An adjacent co-ed sauna facility as well as a cardio/weight center is perfect for your down time.
The hotel is located in the up and coming Saint Roch area of lower Québec City, which has recently experienced a revival of sorts and is now home to numerous good restaurants, hip lounges, and designer boutiques. Also nearby are two local brew pubs crafting unique infusions, and a couple of late night spots for dancing and live music. The neighborhood is ideal for holiday shopping with a festive atmosphere, illuminated street lights, decorative window displays and the tallest Christmas tree in the city. Hotel Pur is convenient situated close to the main train station for anyone arriving by Via Rail or Amtrak and across the street from the main bus terminal. A stay here is pur-fection!
*Of note – reception has a selection of personal amenities for guests should you forget the essentials. While in the lobby, should you want something to go along with a java jolt, look for the afternoon table of cookies and chocolates. Also, be sure to catch the post-it note on your closet door for a complimentary drink at the bar.
*Tip – Guests may just want to stay put and check out the fabulous Table Restaurant on the premises (see adjacent story). Open from early morning until early evening, this spacious venue also functions as a lounge with occasional DJ nights ramping up the atmospheric vibes.
*Promotions – the hotel is currently running a couple of promotions, such as book two nights and get the third for free, and others offering breakfast and champagne in the room. The VIP Nightlife package provides a VIP pass for two to Maurice club with two complimentary drinks, roundtrip transportation, and full American breakfast.
Hotel Pur
395, rue de la Couronne
418-647-2458