Affordable Unusual Accommodations in Quebec For an Unforgettable Getaway Without Breaking Your Budget
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When you think of unusual accommodations in Quebec, you often imagine magnificent but expensive experiences. That’s exactly what I used to think too, but it’s not quite that!
After doing some research, I discovered that there are tons of unique and affordable accommodations in Quebec. Yes, some are pricey, but there are also plenty of accessible options if you know where to look and how to book wisely.
In this article, I’ll share my personal experience, several types of affordable and non-traditional accommodations in Quebec, some truly unique options, what to check before booking, and most importantly, my best tips for saving money without sacrificing the experience.
Table des matières
My experience in a unique accommodation
Me and my boyfriend wanted to do something out of the ordinary to celebrate our 10th anniversary as a couple. I’d always wanted to stay in those trendy, unusual accommodations or glamping sites you see all over social media, but I was hesitant to look at the prices, thinking they must be expensive.
While doing my research, I was surprised to find that these unusual accommodations were much more affordable than I’d imagined! Some are pricey, but there are tons of unique and reasonably priced options in Quebec.
We finally chose a Kamook at Imago Village in Saint-David-de-Falardeau, in the Saguenay region. Since we were going in winter, my non-negotiable requirement was to have a bathroom directly in the accommodation. No way were we going outside to use the toilet in -15°C!
But what really influenced our decision was the skylight with the bed directly below it and the large panoramic window on the ground floor. The kind of details that transform a simple stay into a memorable experience.
Honestly, we loved our experience! Despite the light pollution, we were still able to admire the stars through the dome window above the bed, which was perfect for stargazing while snuggled up warm under the covers. The accommodation was clean and spacious, the mattress very comfortable, and the view of the mountains and surrounding chalets was magnificent. The wood-burning stove near the dining table created a cozy atmosphere.
The Kamook is very well heated and comfortable, even in winter. However, since the dome window is less insulated, it can get cooler there at night. Recent reviews mentioned that the included bedding wasn’t enough to keep you warm, so we brought extra. We were so glad we did, because we weren’t cold at all. During the day, with the sun shining, the second floor gets very hot very quickly!
The site also features several guided winter activities, a café housed in a yurt serving pastries and a brunch menu, and a bistro, also in a yurt, where the atmosphere becomes more festive in the evening.
This first experience has really given me a taste for trying other types of unusual accommodations in Quebec, and there are so many to discover all over the province!
Affordable Unusual Accommodation in Quebec
When I started my search across the province, I didn’t expect to find so many unusual accommodations. Quebec is full of unique places to stay, and some are even affordable!
In this section, I’ve made your life easier by saving you hours of searching. I’ve compiled all types of unusual and affordable accommodations in Quebec, including:
- Location
- Activities available on site
- Price per night
- Opening season
Bubble rooms starting at $130/night
The fully or partially transparent bubble allows you to sleep under the stars while remaining protected. Located in the heart of nature, it offers an immersive view of the sky and the surrounding environment. Domaine Pourki, in Sainte-Anne-de-Sabrevois (Montérégie), offers this experience starting at $130/night, from spring to fall. Several activities are available on site, including jet skiing, electric surfing, fishing, pontoon boating, boating, paddleboarding, pedal boating, kayaking, cycling, canoeing, rabaska canoeing, archery, and bubble soccer.
Dome for under $200/night
The dome has a rounded structure with a large window for admiring nature and sometimes a transparent roof for stargazing. Heated by a wood-burning stove, you can enjoy an experience in nature throughout the four seasons with a good level of comfort.
| Accommodations | Location | Activities available on site | Price/night | Season |
| Centre de l’hêtre | Lac Beauport, Capitale-Nationale | Support, ecopsychology, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, hiking, paddleboarding, canoeing, snowshoeing | Starting at $155, minimum 2 nights | ☀️❄️ |
| Beausite Tourisme | Notre-Dame-Auxiliatrice-de-Buckland, Chaudière-Appalaches | Gourmet side-by-side tour, holistic retreat, massage therapy | Starting at $192 | ☀️❄️ |
| Vallée Jeunesse | Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartie, Capitale-Nationale | Canoeing, fishing | Starting at $72, prices vary considerably depending on the dates | ☀️❄️ |
Sleep with wolves for less than $225/night
This unique experience allows you to spend the night in accommodation near a wolf enclosure and fall asleep to the howling of wolves. It’s the perfect accommodation for a true immersion in the forest and an extraordinary experience.
| Accommodations | Location | Activities available on site | Price/night | Season |
| Aventuraid | Girardville, Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean | Wolf watching, canoeing, snowmobiling, dog sledding | Starting at $205 | ☀️❄️ |
| Sanctuaire de Loups Lupo | Saint-Apolline-de-Patton, Chaudière-Appalaches | Wolf watching, hiking, snowshoeing | Starting at $210 | ☀️❄️ |
Drops for under $150/night
The teardrop is a small, teardrop-shaped or capsule-shaped accommodation. It is designed to maximize space in a compact format to offer a minimalist experience in nature.
| Accommodations | Location | Activities available on site | Price/night | Season |
| Camping Pointe-aux-Oies | Montmagny, Chaudière-Appalaches | Water park, pickleball, shuffleboard, volleyball, basketball, pétanque, table tennis, mini golf, cycling, washer toss, bean bag toss, board games | $119.90 | ☀️ |
| Ôasis | Havre Saint-Pierre (Réserve de parc national de l’Archipel-de-Mingan), Côte-Nord Gaspé (Parc national Forillon), Gaspésie | Hiking, cycling, fishing, sea kayaking, whale watching and discovery cruises, kitesurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving, cross-country skiing Sea excursions, hiking, sea kayaking, paddleboarding, scuba diving | $147.50 | ☀️ |
Elevated accommodations for under $125/night
These accommodations are raised on stilts, built in the trees or perched on the edge of a cliff. They are like a children’s treehouse but for adults! They offer breathtaking views from the treetops of the forest and the surrounding environment.
| Accommodations | Location | Activities available in site | Price/night | Season |
| Kabania | Notre-Dame-de-la-Merci, Laurentides | Hiking, tubing on the river, volleyball, Molkky, horseshoes, bean bag toss, board games, library, relaxation in a hammock and lounge areas, tubing, ice skating | Starting at $90 | ☀️❄️ |
| Les Refuges Perchés | Mont-Blanc, Laurentides | Hiking, canoeing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing | Starting at $109 | ☀️❄️ |
| Refuges du Lac Démêlé | Amherst, Laurentides | Pedal boats, canoes, fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing | Starting at $109 | ☀️❄️ |
Kamook for less than $225/night
Kamook is the Cree word for “house.” Its shape is inspired by igloos, residences traditionally associated with the Inuit people. This accommodation offers an experience with magnificent views of nature thanks to its panoramic window and large glass dome.
| Accommodations | Location | Activities available on site | Price/night | Season |
| Centre Plein Air Lac Ferré | Saint-Narcisse-de-Rimouski, Bas-Saint-Laurent | Boats, mountain biking, hiking | $190, minimum 2 nights | ☀️❄️ |
| Domaines des Dunes | Tadoussac, Côte-Nord | Finnish obstacle courses, whale watching cruises, black bear watching, sea kayaking, quad biking, cycling, | $220 | ☀️❄️ |
| Ma Yourte au Coeur des Collines | Saint-Calixte-de-Kilkenny, Lanaudière | Swimming pool, spa, hiking, snowshoeing | Starting at $219 | ☀️❄️ |
Hobbit houses for under $225/night
Inspired by the fantasy world of Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings, the hobbit house is semi-underground with an iconic round door. It offers a magical atmosphere while remaining comfortable.
| Accommodations | Location | Activities on site | Price/night | Season |
| Entre Cîmes et Racines | Bolton-Est, Estrie | Hiking, maze, snowshoeing, mountain biking, snow tubing | $225 | ☀️❄️ |
| Les Toits du Monde | Nominingue, Laurentides | Disc golf, forest survival workshop, edible wild plant workshop, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing | $175 | ☀️❄️ |
Floating houses for under $200/night
You can sleep directly on the water, often moored on a lake or a calm river. Floating houses combine the exotic feel of a stay on the water with the comfort of a mini-chalet.
| Accommodations | Location | Activitis available on site | Price/night | Season |
| Aloberge | Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix, Montérégie | Sailboat | Starting from $149 | ☀️ |
| Domaine Pourki | Sainte-Anne-de-Sabrevois, Montérégie | Jet ski, electric surfboard, fishing, pontoon boat, boat, paddleboard, pedal boat, kayak, bicycle, canoe, rabaska canoeing, archery, bubble soccer | 170$ | ☀️ |
| Flotel | Montebello, OutaouaisSalaberry-de-Valleyfield, MontérégieSaint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Montérégie | Sea kayaking, scuba diving and snorkeling, cycling, electric cycling, boating, electric boating, paddleboarding | Starting from $159 | ☀️ |
Pods for under $125/night
A pod is a small, rounded wooden cabin that is more comfortable than a tent but simpler than a cabin. Pods are popular for quick and economical getaways in nature.
| Accommodations | Location | Activities on site | Price/night | Season |
| Au diable vert | Sutton, Estrie | River tubing, kayaking, open-air planetarium, hiking, paddleboarding, VéloVolant (a type of ziplining), visit to a Highland cattle farm, snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing | Starting from $99 | ☀️❄️ |
| Massif du Sud | Saint-Philémon, Chaudière Appalaches | Hiking, mountain biking, obstacle courses, geocaching, birdwatching, stream fishing, cross-country skiing, ski touring, ski touring, snowshoeing, fat biking, downhill skiing | Starting from $124 | ☀️❄️ |
| Mont Experience Herreford | East Herreford, Estrie | Hiking, mountain biking, summit tour of Mount Hereford, off-piste skiing | Starting from $110 | ☀️❄️ |
Hanging tent for under $100/night
The suspended tent is strung between trees and floats above the ground for a night in the comfort of a hammock. It combines adventure and total immersion in the forest while providing shelter from dampness and insects. It’s the most affordable unique accommodation!
| Accommodations | Location | Activities available on site | Price/night | Season |
| BoRefüge | L’Ange Gardien, Outaouais | Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, massage therapy, interpretive activities | Starting from $60 | ☀️ |
| CarpeDiem Aventures | Blue Sea, Outaouais | Canoeing | $67.86 | ☀️ |
| Hébergements aux Cinq Sens | Piopolis, Estrie | Audio experience, stargazing evening, storytelling, infrared sauna, nomad walk, personalized solitary forest retreat | $85, 2 nights minimum | ☀️ |
Tipi for under $175/night
Inspired by traditional Indigenous dwellings, the tipi offers an authentic camping experience. The tipi is perfect if you’re looking for a simple and different nature immersion compared to a typical cabin stay.
| Accommodation | Location | Activities available on site | Price/night | Season |
| Centre de l’Hêtre | Lac Beauport, Capitale-Nationale | Support, ecopsychology, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, hiking, paddleboarding, canoeing, snowshoeing | $155 with a 2-night minimum stay, or $170/night | ☀️❄️ |
| Labelle et La Rouge | Labelle, Laurentides | Canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, volleyball, badminton, cycling, fishing | $120 | ☀️ |
| Les Toits du Monde | Nominingue, Laurentides | Disc golf, forest survival workshop, edible wild plant workshop, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing | $100 | ☀️❄️ |
Yurts for under $125/night
The yurt is a round canvas tent inspired by Mongolian nomadism. It consists of a wooden frame covered with a strong, insulated canvas. It comprises a single room illuminated by a skylight at the top, allowing for stargazing at night. It combines the comfort of a small cabin with the immersive experience of camping. It’s an ideal option for a first-time budget-friendly stay in unusual accommodations.
| Accommodations | Location | Activities available on site | Price/night | Season |
| Aux Berges du Lac Castor | Saint-Paulin, Mauricie | Canoeing, pedal boating, rabaska (a type of canoe), kayaking, volleyball, horseshoes, pétanque, hiking, snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating | Starting from $104 | ☀️❄️ |
| Massif du Sud | Saint-Philémon, Chaudière-Appalaches | Hiking, mountain biking, obstacle courses, geocaching, birdwatching, stream fishing, cross-country skiing, ski touring, ski touring, snowshoeing, fat biking, downhill skiing | Starting from $109 | ☀️❄️ |
| Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier | Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury, Capitale-Nationale | Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, mini-rafting, inner tube camping, paddleboarding, fishing, cycling, snowshoeing, fat biking, cross-country skiing, ski touring, backcountry skiing, sledding, snow scootering | Starting from $116 | ☀️❄️ |
| Vallée-Bras-du-Nord | Saint-Raymond, Capitale-Nationale | Hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, canyoning, via ferrata, fat biking, snowshoeing, ski touring | Starting at $115, 20% discount for bookings between Sunday and Thursday | ☀️❄️ |
Affordable Unusual Accommodations in Quebec
When we talk about unusual accommodations in Quebec, some stand out completely. Not just because they are original, but because they are literally impossible to find anywhere else in the province!
Pirate ships
This themed accommodation lets you imagine living in the age of privateers and pirates. Highly immersive, the pirate ship is perfect for a fun and unique experience.
| Hébergements | Localisation | Activités sur le site | Prix/nuit | Saison |
| Chalets de l’Anse St-Hélène | Maria, Gaspésie | $300 | ☀️❄️ | |
| Les Toits du Monde | Nominingue, Laurentides | Disc golf, forest survival workshop, edible wild plant workshop, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing | $250 | ☀️❄️ |
Sleeping with lions
The Hôtel de la Cité Perdue in Saint-Calixte (Lanaudière) offers the opportunity to observe lions from your room window for $199.99/night. The lions are all captive-born and cannot be released into their natural habitat for their safety and longevity. Several activities are available on-site, including arcades, a petting zoo, a water park, inflatable games, aerial structures, and mini-golf.
Eclipse
The Eclipse is an accommodation available only at Massif du Sud in Saint-Philémon (Chaudière-Appalaches). Its large window offers a view of the forest. The accommodation is available year-round and can be booked starting at $149/night. Massif du Sud offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, obstacle courses, geocaching, birdwatching, stream fishing, cross-country, downhill, alpine, and backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking.
Ice hotel
Just 20 minutes from downtown Quebec City, the Ice Hotel, located at Village Vacances Valcartier, is a temporary hotel entirely sculpted from ice and snow, with a completely different design each year. You can explore the Grand Hall, admire the themed suites, and step into the enchanting chapel where couples from all over the world come to get married. It’s truly worth it, the hotel is a work of art in itself, and each room is unique, no two are alike!
In the evening, the experience becomes even more magical. The ice lights up, the atmosphere warms up, and the ice bar comes alive for happy hour or an evening with a DJ. Cocktails are served in hand-carved ice glasses. Quebec City is full of winter activities without having to travel too far.
Monastery
Located in Old Quebec City (Quebec City), the 17th-century Augustinian Monastery has been carefully restored. The former nuns’ cells offer a simple, peaceful, and rejuvenating stay starting at $159/night. Several packages are available, including movement activities, massage therapy, meditation sessions, and other wellness experiences. There are many activities to enjoy in Old Quebec City, both in winter and summer.
How to save on an unusual accommodations
Unusual accommodations in Quebec can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you book strategically! Here are some tips to lower the cost of your stay:
- Book off-season: Many accommodations reduce their prices during the low season (January, February, April, September, October, November). Midweek stays can also be cheaper.
- Keep an eye out for promotions: Subscribe to the newsletter of the accommodations you’re interested in so you don’t miss their promotions! They often have deals for Black Friday, Boxing Day, and even Valentine’s Day!
- Share the cost: If you’re planning a unique accommodation experience with several people, it’s often cheaper to book a single place for your whole group.
- Check what’s included: A slightly more expensive accommodation can end up being less costly if you have fewer expenses. Check what’s included:
- Firewood
- On-site activities
- Fees per additional person
- Compare the price with packages: Depending on the experience you’re looking for, many sites offer packages whose combined price is often lower than booking everything separately (e.g., overnight stays with spa access, overnight stays with meals).
- Cook your own meals: It’s no secret that cooking your own meals is more economical than eating out at a restaurant or snack bar. Check what the kitchenette in your accommodation includes before making your grocery list; some accommodations don’t have a stove, only a hot plate.
What to check before booking
Don’t rely solely on photos, there are essential things to check before booking your unusual accommodation in Quebec to ensure it meets the type of experience you’re looking for:
- Comfort level: Many unique accommodations are rustic. Check the heating (especially in winter), access to water, insulation, whether bedding is provided, access to drinking water, whether the bathroom is private or shared, and electricity. You’ll find most of this information in the accommodation description, but be sure to read the most recent reviews.
- Site accessibility: Accommodations can be more isolated than you might think. Check the distance from the parking area to the accommodation (especially if you have a lot of luggage) and winter access (you may not be able to park your car near the accommodation).
- What’s included: Like firewood for the stove, bedding, on-site activities, and a fully equipped kitchenette. This information will help you make the most of your stay.
- The season: Quebec is beautiful in all four seasons, but each season has its pros and cons. Check :
- That the accommodation is available during the season you want to visit.
- That some accommodations have air conditioning in the summer (domes and bubbles can become ovens!).
- That the heating is sufficient in the winter.
- Privacy: These accommodations are not all secluded in the forest, and some have insulation similar to a tent. If you’re looking for an immersive nature experience, check:
- The distance between accommodations
- Whether there are common areas
- The soundproofing of the accommodation
- Rules and restrictions: Each site has its own rules. Depending on the experience you’re looking for, it might be a good idea to check:
- Whether pets are allowed
- Whether fires are permitted outside
- Whether there’s a curfew
- The maximum number of people the accommodation can accommodate
- Some sites require a minimum 2-night stay
- Cancellation policy: Unexpected events can happen, and the weather can be unpredictable. It can be helpful to check information about full or partial refunds and the cancellation deadline.
- Recent reviews: Don’t just look at the average rating, check recent reviews, especially those from the season you’ll be booking your unique accommodations! This will also allow you to see if there are any inconsistencies between what the website offers and what guests actually receive (e.g., heating level, cleanliness, what’s included, etc.).
Affordable unique accommodations do exist in Quebec. Quebec is full of original options, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a nature adventure, or simply a night out of the ordinary.
Take the time to compare, read reviews, and apply the money-saving tips I shared above. You might be surprised by everything you can experience for much less than you imagine.
And if you try out an unusual accommodation, let me know! I’m always looking for an affordable experience!
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These are so cool!! I want to stay in all of them! What a cool way to spend time in a new place, and I love the price points! Thanks
Thank you! They all look amazing, I want to stay in all of them too! I didn’t believe it when I saw that they are more affordable than I thought!