Hotel PUR, Quebec, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Though it may look just like any other business hotel in town, the PUR is a modern property with a sense of style. Full renovations in 2017 gave the hotel a fresh, urban look, with a mix of homey and industrial-chic interiors, plus playful touches such as large portraits of animals wearing human clothes, and macro images of knitted wool on walls. The lobby feels immediately welcoming, with leather and wood accents, exposed bulbs, and a warm brown-and-gray palette. A double-sided fireplace separates the lobby from the wine bar, a homey space that draws guests with a wine fridge, pool table, and comfy sitting areas. Though large rooms (some with two queen beds or sofa beds) and a heated indoor pool are great perks for families, this property is probably better suited for couples and young groups of friends, as the vibe is more casual and hip than kid-friendly. The location a 20-minute walk from Old Quebec allows for somewhat lower rates than comparable hotels in the heart of the action, but those seeking something closer to major attractions may want to check out the Le Saint-Pierre Auberge, though it lacks some of the amenities found at the PUR and is more traditional. For something cheaper also in Old Quebec, Hotel Chateau Bellevue is a good alternative, featuring cute rooms and free access to a spa and indoor pool at nearby sister property. Travelers wanting a more upscale property may want to compare rates at the Auberge Saint-Antoine, also located in the heart of Old Quebec. 

Hotel PUR is located on a cobblestone street within walking distance of the Old City. The hotel overlooks a beautiful neo-Gothic church in the historic Saint-Roch district, an area that has been compared to hipster-friendly neighborhoods elsewhere, such as Williamsburg in Brooklyn. The neighborhood is home to many restaurants, shops, and bars, and is popular among students and young professionals. Though a little removed from the heart of the action in Old Quebec, most major attractions in that part of town can be reached on foot within 20 to 25 minutes, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, Chateau Fontenac and Dufferin Terrace, and Place Royale. Gare du Palais is about a 13-minute walk away, while the cruise terminal is less than 10 minutes away by car. Jean-Lesage International Airport is a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

The hotel’s 242 rooms were fully renovated in 2017 and feature stylish, contemporary decor -- think simple wooden furniture with clean lines and dark accents, strategically placed recessed lighting, and large mural paintings of Boulevard Charest, the area’s main thoroughfare. Tartan armchairs or benches in dark hues, as well as leather chairs and small reading lights on either side of the bed add warmth. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in lots of natural light, and some offer great views of stunning Church of Saint-Roch. Amenities are great for the price and include free Wi-Fi, Nespresso machines, mini-fridges, large flat-screen TVs, and iPod docks. Plush beds are topped with light duvets and several hypoallergenic pillows, and all rooms have blackout curtains. Located on the top floors, suites come with sofa beds and some have an additional full bath. Bathrooms are average in size but clean and modern, with dark tiles on floors, walls, and counters, deep Japanese-style tubs or walk-in showers, and big mirrors. However, note that some past guests have complained of temperamental showers. Magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, safes, robes, and Pharmacopia toiletries are available in all rooms. 

One of the hotel’s top perks is the heated indoor pool, located on the top floor and surrounded by windows offering city views. The pool is long enough for a few quick laps, and it offers a number of loungers, free towel service, and a dry sauna. Directly adjacent to it is the 24-hour fitness center, equipped with a good array of modern cardio and strength-training machines, flat-screen TVs, and free weights. Table is the hotel’s only restaurant, serving up Quebecois and international cuisine in a stylish space with sidewalk seating. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here daily, but food gets mixed reviews; while some past guests have praised the freshness and taste of the dishes, others have found them underwhelming. The adjacent wine bar is a causal spot for an evening drink, and there are a pool table and lots of seating next to a fireplace for socializing. Room services is available 24/7. The hotel also features 12,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including 12 rooms and a terrace for outdoor events. There is also on-site parking for a fee, and pets are allowed for an extra charge.