L'Embâcle

Architectural vision

“Two heaped blocks of ice lie in the clearing. Abandoned by the torrent, marked by trials, vulnerable to the sun’s assaults, they merge and embrace in a final union. Now crystalline, now downy, their whiteness celebrates light, their transparency evokes their distant source. Hints of tundra, promises of life, cover the peaceful blocks with their eiderdown. L’Embâcle is a tribute to nordicity and its infinitely essential conquest.” — Bernard Serge Gagné, architect, ABCP

The ascent of the hill, then the stairs of the house, reveals impressive views of the river, the Malbaie River estuary and Mont des Éboulements. This contemporary luxury house, located in Cap-à-l’Aigle (La Malbaie), in Charlevoix, offers a unique stay experience. Upstairs, the heart of the house, nestled between the evening terrace and the morning terrace, features panoramic views of Charlevoix’s exceptional landscape. Dining room, kitchen and living room spread beneath a whitewashed wood ceiling. At the rear, a den offers a relaxation space on the forest side. On the garden level, sheltered beneath the upper volume in the intimacy of the clearing, the pool, terrace and spa offer a pleasant retreat, protected from the wind and bathed in sunlight. The bright bedrooms also enjoy the privacy of the undergrowth.

Accommodations and sleeping arrangements

L’Embâcle comfortably accommodates up to 8 adults and 4 children. The house features one king bedroom, two queen bedrooms, and a family room that can serve as a children’s dormitory, equipped with one queen bed and 2 bunk beds providing 4 spots. Each bedroom has a private bathroom with Italian shower and toilet, bright and overlooking the clearing. The family room has a bathroom with bathtub and changing table.

Pool and spa

The heated outdoor pool (3 m × 6 m × 1.2 m deep) offers a view of the clearing. Surrounded by a 1.2 m high fence for children’s safety, it is open from May 15 to September 15. Lounge chairs and beach towels are provided.

The outdoor spa (hot tub), open year-round, accommodates up to 8 people in an intimate setting with a view of the clearing. Its cover is easy to open but locks for children’s safety.

Gourmet kitchen

The spacious kitchen is fully equipped to satisfy all culinary enthusiasts: induction cooktop, conventional oven, microwave, dishwasher, blender, toaster, 2 fondue pots, 2 raclette grills and much more. Coffee lovers will appreciate the espresso machine with grinder, French press and drip coffee maker. Tea enthusiasts will find a kettle and teapot at their disposal. A fully equipped bar with beverage fridge and bar sink will delight cocktail aficionados.

Dining room and terraces

The open dining room features a teak table and chairs seating 12 guests, with 4 additional seats on stools at the adjacent island. An abundance of plates, bowls, cutlery, serving dishes, water, wine, beer and champagne glasses, seafood tools and egg cups are provided. Unbreakable dinnerware is available for children, along with a high chair and a convertible toddler chair.

The house features two terraces on green rooftops. The morning terrace, facing east, offers a river view, ideal for coffee. The evening terrace, facing west, overlooks the Malbaie River estuary, the St. Lawrence and the clearing. It is equipped with a gas BBQ and a table for 12, perfect for outdoor dining.

Living room

The living room offers an impressive view of the Malbaie River estuary, the St. Lawrence and Mont des Éboulements, at the center of the Charlevoix crater. A wood-burning fireplace (firewood provided) creates a warm ambiance around the large, comfortable sectional sofa, whose layout can be rearranged as desired. Individual armchairs complete the space. A device charging station and a portable Bose speaker are provided.

Den

The den, on the forest side, offers a relaxation space with an upright piano and movable armchairs. An adjoining large two-seat desk provides an ideal workspace for remote work.

The kids’ corner

The little ones have their own space with bean bags, reading nooks, board games and books. A 55-inch smart TV with guest mode and access to usual streaming services, along with Wi-Fi stereo speakers, complete this dedicated space.

Comfort and amenities

Radiant floor heating and centralized ventilation ensure optimal comfort throughout the home, complemented by air conditioning and a fireplace on the upper floor. Smart thermostats in each room allow individualized temperature control. Bed linens, bath, hand, face and beach towels, bathrobes and soaps are provided. Bedrooms feature privacy sheers and blackout curtains for sleeping in.

A universal electric vehicle charger is available on the private 4-spot parking. Wi-Fi internet, a smart TV, Wi-Fi speakers and home automation provide modern connectivity. USB and USB-C outlets are installed in bedrooms and living areas. An entry mudroom with ski racks and a sheltered outdoor bike rack complete the amenities.

Safety

Safety is a top priority at L’Embâcle. The home is equipped with smoke, carbon monoxide and water leak detectors. An exterior camera, motion detectors and interior door motion sensors provide surveillance. Fire extinguishers are available on every floor, along with a first aid kit. Doors use electronic keypad locks with unique codes for each reservation. The pool is surrounded by a tall fence and windows have limited opening. A child safety gate is installed at the top of the staircase.

Code of conduct

L’Embâcle is located in a very quiet resort neighborhood, surrounded by forest and other luxury tourist residences. No visitors are allowed beyond the maximum capacity of 12 people. Maximum capacity is 8 adults; the 2 bunk beds (4 spots) are intended for children only. No excessive noise or outdoor music is tolerated. Reservations must be made by individuals 30 years of age or older, and ID may be requested. A $2,000 security deposit is pre-authorized on the day of arrival and released 7 days after departure.

Pets are permitted with the exception of cats. They are welcome in the home and are held to the same standards as everyone in a luxury house with high-end equipment and furnishings. The house and grounds must be returned clean, free of excrement and damage-free. You are the best judge of your pet’s behavior. Check-in is from 4:00 PM and check-out is before 11:00 AM.