Boardwalk-by-Hotel-Sept-IIes-Photo-Credit-Margarita-Ibbott
Located right on the waterfront in the heart of Sept-Îles, this hotel offers easy access to the boardwalk, the marina, and sweeping views of the bay. While the property shows its age in spots, the prime location and exceptional restaurant make Hôtel Sept-Îles a worthwhile stop on Québec’s North Shore (Côte-Nord). Sept-Îles is the gateway to Canada Parks‘ breathtaking Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve with stunning monoliths, unique flora and many, many puffins.
Rooms: A Mix of Old and New
Hotel-Sept-Iles-Photo-Credit-Margarita-Ibbott
My room was a blend of updated comfort and vintage charm. Spacious and quiet, it featured a very comfortable bed and a private balcony that opened directly onto an incredible view of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Watching the sun set over the water with a glass of wine in hand was a highlight of my stay.
That said, the bathroom could use a refresh. With its 1970s-era tile and fixtures, it felt dated—but it was clean, well-lit, and fully functional. If a modern bathroom is important to you, I’d recommend requesting one of the renovated rooms at booking. My colleagues were in a modern room and bathroom and mentioned that it was a stall shower without the benefit of a bathtub.
Another highlight were the rooms with balconies. It was one long balcony with two chairs in front of your window but it provided a great place to congregate and people watch. One small note: be cautious when stepping out onto the balcony—our door lock didn’t allow for re-entry unless it was propped open.
Dining: A Pleasant Surprise
Breakfast-Hotel-de-Sept-Iles-Photo-Credit-Margarita-Ibbott
The hotel’s on-site restaurant, Bistro-7, was a highlight of the stay. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the bay, and the natural light makes for a bright, airy dining space. Breakfast was hearty and satisfying, and dinner was equally enjoyable, with a solid menu and local seafood options. The relaxed atmosphere made it a nice place to unwind after a day of exploring. For dinner, I ordered a steak and fries and it was very good!
Amenities & On-Site Services
Hotel-Sept-IIes-Photo-Credit-Margarita-Ibbott
Hôtel Sept-Îles has 78 guest rooms, including 4 sea-view suites and 3 spa suites. On-site amenities include a fitness room, sauna, massage services (through Spa Renaissance), free parking, and laundry services.
Although I did not visit Spa Renaissance, it maybe worth a look at their website for Spa+Accommodations packages. They offer a Finnish dry sauna, a reading corner and relaxation room. If you have never had a Hamman treatment, I would highly recommend it!
Rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, coffee makers, some microwaves and flat-screen TVs. Guest have access to a small beach right in front of the hotel, off of the boardwalk.
Exploring the Region
Musée de la Côte-Nord -Photo-Credit-Margarita-Ibbott
The hotel is ideally located for exploring the Côte-Nord region. This region is part of the greater Maritime Quebec (Quebec maritime) encompassing four separate regions. Take advantage of the location by walking the boardwalk to the pier—an easy and scenic stroll. The stunning sunset over the bay did not disappoint.
Cultural stops include the excellent Musée de la Côte-Nord, which showcases the area’s natural history and Indigenous heritage. For a taste of local flavour, grab a lobster roll or seafood poutine at Casse-croûte du pêcheur, a casual spot popular with locals.
There are also many day trip options from Sept-Îles. Spend the afternoon at one of the nearby beaches that stretch along the coast, or plan a longer outing to the Sept-Îles archipelago, Havre-Saint-Pierre or Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan, gateways to the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, or to Port-Cartier, known for its parks, waterfalls and rugged shoreline.
Final Thoughts
Ile-au-Perroquets- Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve -Photo-Credit-Margarita-Ibbott
Hôtel Sept-Îles is a solid choice for travelers venturing along the St. Lawrence River. While some rooms and bathrooms are due for updates, the comfortable beds, outstanding location, and bay-view Bistro-7 restaurant more than make up for it.
My recommendation: request a renovated room with an updated bathroom—and be sure to take time to enjoy the region’s coastal beauty, seafood specialties, and cultural attractions.
