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Three-star-hotel

Understanding Hotel Star Ratings at Auberge Montebello

When planning your stay at Auberge Montebello, you may notice our proud designation as a “three-star hotel” under Quebec’s official tourism classification system. But what does a “three-star” rating really mean? And how does it differ from the star ratings you see on review sites? Let’s break it down to help you understand what to expect during your visit to our charming Montebello retreat.

Quebec Tourism’s Hotel Classification System

In Quebec, the “Corporation de l’industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ)”, the official body responsible for regulating and classifying accommodations across the province, assigns hotel star ratings. Unlike consumer reviews, which are subjective and based on personal experiences, the CITQ’s star ratings are an objective, standardized evaluation of a hotel’s facilities, services, and amenities. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, are designed to help travellers make informed decisions by setting clear expectations for comfort, quality, and service.

Here’s a concise overview of what each star level represents, based on CITQ standards:

One-Star Hotels: These establishments offer basic accommodations with clean, functional rooms. Expect modest furnishings, essential amenities like a bed and private or shared bathroom, and limited services. One-star hotels prioritize affordability and simplicity, ideal for budget-conscious travellers seeking a no-frills place to rest.

Two-Star Hotels: A step up, two-star hotels provide comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms in each room, typically including a shower or tub, basic toiletries, and a TV. These properties may offer additional amenities, such as Wi-Fi or a small on-site restaurant. They cater to travellers looking for a balance of comfort and value.

Three-Star Hotels (Like Auberge Montebello): Three-star hotels, such as ours, offer a high level of comfort with well-equipped rooms and a range of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Expect spacious rooms (minimum 13.5 m² for double rooms, including private bathrooms), high-quality bedding, a colour TV with remote control, and thoughtful touches such as hairdryers and complimentary toiletries. Public areas are welcoming, with professional staff available at least 12 hours a day. Many three-star hotels, including Auberge Montebello, offer on-site dining options, scenic views, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that is perfect for both relaxation and business travellers alike.

Four-Star Hotels: These upscale properties emphasize luxury and convenience, offering larger rooms with premium furnishings, 24-hour reception, and enhanced services like room service, concierge, and multiple on-site facilities (e.g., pools, spas, or fitness centers). Four-star hotels cater to guests seeking a refined experience with meticulous attention to detail.

Five-Star Hotels: The pinnacle of hospitality, five-star hotels offer a luxurious and personalized experience. Expect spacious, elegantly designed rooms with high-end amenities (e.g., designer linens, in-room safes, and jacuzzis), 24-hour room service, gourmet dining, and extensive facilities such as spas, gyms, and live entertainment. These hotels tailor to discerning travellers who demand exceptional service and extravagance.

The CITQ evaluates hotels based on over 200 criteria, including room size, cleanliness, staff professionalism, and the availability of amenities such as dining, parking, and recreational facilities. To maintain their rating, hotels must undergo regular inspections (every few years) to ensure consistent quality. At Auberge Montebello, our three-star rating reflects our commitment to providing comfortable, well-appointed accommodations with professional service, set against the stunning backdrop of Montebello’s natural beauty.

Industry Standards vs. Consumer Ratings

You might be wondering how Quebec’s official star ratings differ from the star ratings you see on platforms like TripAdvisor, Expedia, or Google Reviews. The key distinction lies in “objectivity” versus “subjectivity”:

Industry Standards (CITQ Star Ratings): Professional inspectors evaluate tangible features, including room size, facility quality, and service availability. The process is rigorous and independent, ensuring hotels meet specific, measurable criteria. For example, our three-star rating guarantees spacious rooms, modern amenities, and attentive service, all verified by the CITQ.

Consumer Ratings: These are based on guests’ personal experiences and opinions, often reflecting subjective factors like service friendliness, value for money, or even a guest’s mood during their stay. A guest might give a hotel five stars because they loved the breakfast, or one star due to a single negative experience, regardless of the hotel’s facilities. While consumer reviews offer valuable insights, they can vary widely and don’t always align with official standards.

For example, a guest might rate Auberge Montebello four stars on a review site for our warm hospitality or scenic location. Still, our official three-star CITQ rating reflects a standardized evaluation of our amenities and services. Both perspectives are essential, but the CITQ rating ensures you’re getting a consistent level of quality recognized across Quebec’s tourism industry.

Why Choose a Three-Star Stay at Auberge Montebello?

Our three-star rating means you can expect a comfortable, well-maintained property with modern amenities, professional service, and a focus on guest satisfaction—all at a great value. Whether you’re here to explore Montebello’s outdoor adventures, attend a business event, or simply unwind, Auberge Montebello offers:

  • Spacious, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, quality bedding, and modern conveniences.
  • On-site dining to enjoy delicious meals without leaving the property.
  • A picturesque setting in the heart of Montebello, perfect for relaxation or exploration.
  • Professional, friendly staff dedicated to making your stay memorable.

We invite you to experience the charm and comfort of our three-star Auberge Montebello, where Quebec’s industry standards meet heartfelt hospitality. Book your stay today and discover why our guests return time and again!