North House - Manoir des Remparts / Hotel Automatisé

The hotel offers a unique, automated stay experience within a charming historic building, making it a memorable choice for travelers. Its signature feature is its unbeatable central location in Old Quebec City, placing guests within easy walking distance of major attractions and the port. This makes it particularly well-suited for sightseers, backpackers, and low-maintenance travelers who prioritize convenience and value over traditional hotel services. The contactless check-in and staffless environment appeal to those seeking privacy and independence. While generally praised for its cleanliness and comfortable beds, guests should be prepared for the presence of numerous stairs and the absence of an elevator, which can be challenging with heavy luggage. To ensure a smooth arrival, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the automated access codes and key retrieval process beforehand.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the convenience of in-room amenities such as a mini-fridge and a coffee machine with supplies, though some wished for more power outlets or a kettle for tea. The Wi-Fi is consistently described as strong and reliable, facilitating connectivity. A significant feature is the rooftop terrace, offering stunning views of the harbor and city, complete with sunbeds, tables, and chairs for relaxation, although access can be tricky and some views from rooms are obstructed. A secure luggage storage room with a code is available, which is highly valued by guests for early arrivals or late departures. However, a recurring point of feedback is the lack of an elevator, requiring guests to navigate multiple flights of stairs, which can be challenging, especially with heavy bags. Some rooms also feature a TV with various entertainment options, including Apple TV connectivity.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The rooms are generally found to be clean and well-maintained, with many guests praising the comfortable beds and high-quality linens that ensure a restful sleep. However, some reviews noted minor issues such as sticky floors, dust, or occasional hair and stains on sheets. Room sizes are often described as small or cramped, though adequate for short stays and good value for the price. Noise can be a significant concern, with complaints about thin walls allowing sounds from neighbors (showering, flushing, talking) and street noise to be heard. Plumbing noises and loud bathroom fans from adjacent rooms are also mentioned. Temperature control can be inconsistent, with some rooms being too warm or having non-functional air conditioning or heating. In-room amenities like coffee makers and fridges are appreciated, but some rooms lack sufficient counter space, a chair, or adequate places to hang clothes.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location in the heart of Old Quebec City, making it incredibly convenient for exploring. Guests can easily walk to major tourist attractions like the Chateau Frontenac, the Citadel, and various shops and restaurants. Its proximity to the port offers picturesque views, though some rooms may experience associated noise. While the location is highly praised for its walkability, guests frequently highlight the challenge of navigating the city's steep hills and stairs, especially when carrying luggage. Parking is a notable concern, as there is no on-site parking. Guests must utilize off-site public parking garages, which can be a considerable distance away, expensive, and difficult to access with larger vehicles, often requiring street parking for loading and unloading.

Staff & Service
The hotel operates on an automated, staffless model, which offers a unique experience. While many guests appreciate the privacy and easy check-in process using codes, the absence of on-site personnel can lead to challenges. Communication before arrival is generally good, with detailed instructions provided, and virtual assistance is available via phone or message, often with quick responses. However, some guests reported difficulties reaching staff by phone or receiving delayed replies for urgent issues like power outages or plumbing problems. The keypad and lockbox system for room access, while convenient, occasionally presented issues like being unlit or out of calibration. Without daily cleaning service, guests are responsible for obtaining fresh towels and toiletries from a communal storage area, which some found less convenient than traditional hotel service.

Additional Information
This hotel operates as a fully automated establishment, meaning there are no on-site staff for traditional services, which contributes to its value-for-money proposition. Guests should be aware that the fire alarm system can be over-sensitive, occasionally triggered by shower steam, leading to building-wide alarms without immediate staff intervention. The building itself is a charming historic structure, contributing to the ambiance of the Old Quebec area, though this also means guests will encounter narrow staircases and no elevator. While the automated system generally works well for independent travelers, some guests noted that the main entrance door was occasionally left ajar, despite being code-locked, raising minor security concerns. The hotel provides umbrellas in rooms, a thoughtful touch for unexpected weather.