Le Westin Resort & Spa, Tremblant, Quebec

Tucked at the foot of Mount-Tremblant, La Westin Resort & Spa appears as a grand yet cozy resort studded with inset balconies, French doors, and tiered roofs, then finished with exposed stone accents on the facade. Westin is an upscale chain owned by Marriott, and though decor is a tad hygienic, it mostly feels contemporary and upscale. The centerpiece of the roomy, stone-floored lobby is a stone fireplace with a large copper hood. Gathered nearby are chic seating areas clustered around rugs and coffee tables, with modern, square couches in neutral tones like gray and cream. In the winter, guests take advantage of on-site ski lockers and near direct access to the slopes, making this a popular spot for vacationing couples and families. 

Le Westin Resort & Spa is situated inside the Tremblant Village's pedestrian area, in the upper portion of the village -- a prime spot, as it's right at the base of the mountain. The gondola that ascends the mountain is just steps away. Village attractions, including restaurants, shops, bars, and other resorts, are within a few minute's walk and the beach is just a three-minute walk. Mont-Tremblant International Airport in La Macaza is about a 45-minute drive, and Montreal's Trudeau International Airport is about a 90-minute drive. 

Guest rooms are nicely sized with clean, contemporary decor offering a neutral color palette, with beige walls, white bedding, and dark-wood furniture. Large windows keep space bright, and there are homey extras, like gas fireplaces and either open kitchens or kitchenettes tucked inside large, chestnut-colored cabinets. Flat-screen TVs, desks, safes, and free Wi-Fi are standard. Entry-level kitchenettes (in Traditional and Deluxe Rooms) are stocked with microwaves, sinks, dishes, small fridges, toasters, electric kettles and coffeemakers (the coffee is Starbucks). The hotel offers roomier upgraded options, which include spacious one- and two-bedroom suites. These accommodations may add extras like balconies, seating areas, hot plates in the kitchenettes, or even full kitchens. Modern bathrooms pair black tiled floors with white, subway tiled tub/shower combos with rainfall showerheads. They all come with free individual toiletries, hairdryers, and robes. 

A main draw of this resort hotel is direct access to skiing at Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort, with a ski locker room right on-site that opens out right next to the slopes. Free priority passes offer early-bird access, plus other perks like free ice skate rentals and snow tubing in the evenings. Some guests complain that free gondola access and beach access aren't included, despite the hotel's proximity to both.

Guests also enjoy the heated outdoor saltwater pool and whirlpool tub with a stone deck, lounge spots, and a lifeguard on duty. The 24-hour gym is nicely equipped with modern cardio equipment, like treadmills and ellipticals with individual screens, plus weightlifting equipment, including free weights and medicine balls. A gear-lending program, sponsored by New Balance, gives guests access to fitness apparel and shoes, albeit for an extra fee. The hotel also offers running maps and early morning group runs a couple days a week. There's a sauna on-site as well as a full-service spa (Amerispa), which offers everything from manicures and pedicures to facial and body treatments and massages.

The hotel has a small but pleasant tapas restaurant with a bar and outdoor seating. Guests, though, tend to find the restaurant fine but not exceptional -- perhaps the plethora of neighborhood options win out. Buffet and a la carte breakfasts are offered for extra fees. Room service is also available.

The hotel has a 24-hour front desk and concierge service. Wi-Fi is free and computers and printers are situated in the lobby for guest use. Valet parking, laundry service, airport transfers, or babysitting can be arranged, and there's also self-service laundry on-site. SPG Members get extra benefits, like free bottled water, turndown service, and other freebies. One dog (up to 40 pounds) stays free per room, with pet-friendly perks like pet beds.