Anne Marie aboard the Train of Le Massif de Charlevoix
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The landscape sweeps by in a steady breath, as the immense window sways across 140 km (87 mi) of shoreline, new views of the river, rocky capes in the distance. Yes my smile was on board the Train of Le Massif de Charlevoix, radiating on a memorable day in October, between Québec and La Malbaie.
And off I went…
Princess On Board
Being more accustomed to cross-country buses, I found this was like being a princess. But no worries, it isn’t too haughty or overly turned out. More like a lovely mix of politeness and attention to detail, as demonstrated by the gentlemen Réjean and Xavier, helping people up the steps. Yes ma’am. Comfortable and down-to-earth.
Bring your oh-my-look-at-thats for when you wind your way towards Cape Tourmente and L’Isle-aux-Coudres. The experience delights. The gourmet dishes are renewed alongside the landscapes for a refined mix of terroir flavours, signed Jean-Michel Breton. Three courses on the way there, four on the way back… forget your figure for the day. Savour. Repeat.
The Little Extras
Extra number one: the techno side to the ride, a sort of visual and audio immersion that really works. On the table, an iPad that comes to life as points of interest go by; photo montages, video and music to set the mood as props. It all adds extra value, without being overwhelming. It’s all about subtlety.
Train of Le Massif de Charlevoix
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Extra number two: the ski combo. Just imagine. You take the train in time for breakfast, you get dropped off at the foot of the mountain for a day of ski at Le Massif and on the way back, a gourmet après-ski treat. Fantastic.
Last little extra: the soft lighting on the way back, as the sun sets over the St. Lawrence River and the tide finishes reshaping the landscape.
Pssttt… the Train of Le Massif de Charlevoix will be accepting lovebirds, solo travellers, dreamers and gourmet lovers onboard for the winter season, starting on February 3!
Thanks to France Guillot and the whole team at the Train of Le Massif de Charlevoix for their welcome. A special tip of the hat to Réjean and Xavier for their outstanding service.
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