Top 3 Waterfront Hotels in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean: Find the Best Lac St Jean Hotel
Thank you to Tourisme Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean for the trip! All opinions are my own.
When planning a trip to Quebec’s Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, finding the perfect hotels in Saguenay Lac St Jean is essential for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a spot for business meetings, or a base for outdoor adventures, these top three picks offer something for every type of traveller.
From the stunning lakeside views at Auberge des Îles to the cozy, rustic charm of Chalets & Spa Lac Saint-Jean, each hotel provides unique amenities and nearby attractions that make them the best choices for your visit.
Top Picks:
1. Auberge des Îles
📍 Location: Saint-Gédéon, right on the shores of Lac-Saint-Jean
Auberge des Îles is a year-round resort in Saint-Gédéon, Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, offering stunning views of Lac Saint-Jean with private balconies, beach access, and an indoor pool and spa.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Every room has a private balcony with lake views
- Direct beach access for swimming, kayaking, or just soaking up the scenery
- On-site spa, hot tub, and indoor pool
- Fantastic local food at Rang 9 restaurant (with vegan options!)
I stayed in a lake-view room with a balcony, and even though I visited in early May (aka, still snowy), the view was absolutely stunning. The bed was super comfortable, and yes, I 100% took advantage of the bathtub—a must for any hotel stay in my book.
🍽️ Dining at Rang 9
This was one of my best dining experiences in the region! The chef personally went through the menu with me, explaining what could be customized for a vegan meal, and I ended up with an amazing onion soup and a noodle bowl with fried tofu—honestly, one of the best I’ve ever had.
What to Know Before You Book:
✅ Family-friendly with a kids’ play area
✅ Year-round activities (kayaking & paddleboarding in summer, snowshoeing & snowmobiling in winter)
✅ Free parking & high-speed WiFi
❌ Some parts of the resort aren’t fully accessible for those with mobility issues
💡 Pro Tip: If you want the most unforgettable sunset views, book a corner suite on a higher floor.
This was my favourite of the three waterfront Saguenay Lac St Jean Hotels I stayed in. It was like a winter wonderland, heading to the Auberge des Îles in early May.
➡️ Check Prices and Availability Here!
2. Auberge des 21
📍 Location: La Baie, overlooking the Baie des Ha! Ha!
Why You’ll Love It:
- Steps from the Saguenay Fjord & scenic waterfront trails
- Historic charm meets modern comfort—cozy but well-equipped
- Focus on sustainability & locally sourced ingredients
- Easy access to cultural attractions like the famous “La Fabuleuse Histoire du Royaume” show
I saw someone windsurfing right outside the hotel, which was unexpected but very cool. The location makes it super walkable—I loved wandering through the charming streets, checking out the architecture, and stopping by a local church.
🍽️ Farm-to-Table Dining
Auberge des 21’s restaurant serves fine terroir cuisine, meaning everything is locally sourced and reflects the region’s unique flavours. The chef even put together a special vegan 3-course meal for me—easily one of the best meals I had during my trip.
What to Know Before You Book:
✅ More accessible than other hotels (ask about rooms with walk-in showers)
✅ Great for cultural & foodie travelers
✅ Close to hiking, skiing, and fjord tours
❌ No pets allowed
💡 Pro Tip: If you visit in summer, don’t miss the art exhibits at La Chapelle just steps away from the hotel.
➡️ Check Prices and Availability Here!
3. Chalets & Spa Lac Saint-Jean
📍 Location: Chambord, nestled in nature with views of Lac Saint-Jean
Why You’ll Love It:
- Private chalets with full kitchens—perfect for longer stays
- On-site Nordic spa with hot tubs & saunas
- Ideal for snowmobiling in winter & lakeside relaxation in summer
The wooden exterior of the chalets adds to the cozy, nature-inspired feel. The living room & dining area were super spacious, and while the beds weren’t the most comfortable, it’s a great option for anyone who loves a quiet, cabin-style stay with spa perks.
🍽️ Authentic Québécois Dining at Le Terrier
This was my first time trying Fondue Chinoise, a traditional Quebec dish where you cook veggies and tofu in a hot, seasoned broth. It was delicious and fun, making the meal feel more like an experience than just dinner.
What to Know Before You Book:
✅ Great for groups & longer stays (full kitchens make it easy to self-cater)
✅ Spa treatments available on-site
❌ Not ideal for those with mobility issues (many chalets have stairs)
❌ Some rooms can get hot in summer—request a fan if needed
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, take advantage of their on-site snowmobile rentals!
➡️ Check Prices and Availability Here!
Which Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean Hotel is Right for You?
Lac Saint-Jean has something for every kind of traveler, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a cozy retreat in nature.
- Want a romantic lakeside getaway with spa vibes? Auberge des Îles is the spot.
- Prefer a cultural, foodie-friendly stay in a historic setting? Go for Auberge des 21.
- Looking for a rustic, nature-filled escape with Nordic baths? Chalets & Spa Lac Saint-Jean is your best bet.
No matter which one you choose, waking up to lake views, fresh air, and easy access to the best of Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is guaranteed to make your trip unforgettable.
📍 Planning your trip? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean for adventure, cultural spots, and hidden gems.
You can check out a few of the exciting things to do in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region in this video I created:
Plan Your Canadian Adventure
A few trusted resources I use and recommend:
- Booking.com (Hotels + Stays) – Find places to stay across Canada
Compare hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals using a handy map tool. - Discover Cars (Rental Vehicles) – Search Canadian car rentals
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Stay connected while you explore without needing a physical SIM card. - Safety Wing (Travel Insurance) – Explore travel insurance options
If you're visiting Canada from abroad, travel insurance is worth looking into. This platform helps you compare plans. (Not financial advice.) - Altitude Sports (Outdoor Gear) – Shop for weather-ready clothing
Reliable gear from a trusted Canadian company—great for all-season travel.
