The Charlevoix waterfront along the Saint Lawrence river is a really tremendous thing — the river there is so wide, it feels like you’re staring out into the ocean. La Pinsonnière had a private beach, about 15 minute hike from their property. The tiny strip — packed with huge boulders, rough sand, and towering pine trees — was startlingly similar to the windswept Maine beaches where I spent summers growing up.
Tagged beaches, charlevoix, la pinsonniere, saint lawrence river
When I’m traveling, it’s the hotel breakfast — and not the five-course dinners — that always feels like the biggest indulgence. Think: that overflowing basket of pastries that you won’t even touch. Precariously arranged fruit plates bearing halved grapes (who halves grapes?). Five kinds of jam. Cheese platter. (In France we were served a breakfast that came with three — three! — kinds of butter). Honestly it’s so totally over-the-top, especially because I’m used to such a simple set-up at home (fried egg, tea, toast), and I never go out for breakfast (the idea of paying $10 for eggs makes me feel ill). And having it all come via room service? Just takes it that much more over the top. Hooray for traveling.
[Photos taken at the beautiful auberge we stayed at in Charlevoix, called La Pinsonnière]