Ah, the Ritz. The elegance of this hotel charms many, and for good reasons. Certainly one of the most luxurious places in all of Montreal, the Ritz-Carlton is as glamorous as it is romantic. I recently spent the night there, in the hopes of immersing myself completely in this palace. And I recommend this luxury staycation to anyone!

The façade of the hotel, on Sherbrooke street, plunges us in a historical moment. The 5 diamond hotel — the only one in the province — was born in 1912, and was the first of the Ritz-Carlton line to be built in North America. The charming butler welcoming you into the palace is the first person you’ll greet before entering this high-end establishment.

The beautiful lobby is marked by the Palm Court, where you can have afternoon tea like they used to do 100 years ago. On the right, the famous Dom Pérignon bar, where you may sip on champagne any day of the week while admiring the delicate details garnishing the hotel.

The front desk is polite and welcoming, exactly like you would imagine the Ritz to be: luxurious and charming. The rooms are modernly decorated with historical touches, while also offering small and intricate technological details. I was charmed by the bathroom and its immense window — with seating! —, its private toilet as well as its spacious shower. The room is definitely glamorous and comfortable, and the turndown service proves that every small detail has been taken care of.

The rooftop interior pool is spectacular, and the terrace allows a stunning view of the city — especially in the summer. The Ritz is also home to a spa, the Saint-James, that offers an array of skin and body care services.

What better way to end this staycation than to get brunch at Maison Boulud, the hotel restaurant. Chef Daniel Boulud has created an elaborate menu featuring refined French dishes, all made in the open kitchen. From the crack of dawn, the buffet is already garnished with pastries and breakfasts, or you may order according to your own cravings with the à la carte menu. Maison Boulud is one of my favourite places for brunch on weekends, especially when you get to sit in the exterior patio.

The Ritz-Carlton is one of Montreal’s gems, and this hotel makes me feel special every time I go. If you live in the region, know that staycations are pretty popular right now, and visiting a hotel in your own city has never been so trendy.