Fairmont Le Château Frontenac has just reached a milestone that’s making headlines. With the recent awarding of
Les Clefs d’Or recognition to three additional concierges,
the hotel now has ten of Canada’s top concierges — more than any other property in the country. For visitors to Québec City, that means access to experiences that go beyond guidebooks, from private wine tastings at
boutique vineyards to insider culinary tours.
“We are extremely proud that our concierge team is recognized among the best in the world,” says Simon Bovoli, Director of Luxury Experience & Concierge Services. “Every day, they bring their expertise and passion to our guests, ensuring each stay at the Château is unforgettable. Congratulations — and above all, thank you — to our entire Les Clefs d’Or team between our concierge desks: Jason Turpin, Guillaume Giordano, Eric Sabetta, Catherine Leblanc, Iris Germain, Stéphanie Guay, Diane Gauthier, Maleni Rendon Chavez, Christine Gingras, and Francis Bélanger.”
Jason Turpin, Guillaume Giordano, Eric Sabetta, Catherine Leblanc, Iris Germain, Stéphanie Guay, Diane Gauthier, Maleni Rendon Chavez, Christine Gingras, Francis Bélanger, and Simon Bovoli.
Les Clefs d’Or is an elite international association of hotel concierges, recognizable by the crossed golden keys they wear. Members serve millions of visitors across more than 80 countries and 530 destinations. Founded in France in 1952, with roots going back to 1929, the organization operates on a principle its founders called service through friendship. Members handle everything from routine arrangements to extraordinary requests, combining local expertise with a global network.
For Canadians and international travellers, the Château’s new distinction is newsworthy because it reflects more than prestige. It signals that Québec City delivers unparalleled experiences. Guests can explore wine cellars, sample rare ice wines, or reserve tables at the city’s most sought-after bistros; all arranged by concierges whose skill, knowledge, and connections are recognized at an international level.
How Fairmont Le Château Frontenac’s Concierges Earn Their Golden Keys
The path to earning the golden keys is rigorous. Candidates must have at least five years of hospitality experience, including two specifically as a concierge. Six mystery evaluations over several months test their abilities in real service conditions. The final stage is a month-long practical examination, which includes designing an exclusive cross-Canada itinerary, demonstrating knowledge in ethics, languages, and foundational sommelier principles, and presenting their plan to established members. Successful candidates are reviewed by regional and national councils before formal admission.
This milestone also means that visitors to the Château can rely on a team large enough to provide personalized experiences tailored to any interest, whether that’s wine, cuisine, or cultural exploration. Simon Bovoli emphasizes that the achievement reflects the talent and dedication of the Château’s concierges and the unique experiences they can create for guests.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, part of the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts group, combines iconic architecture and celebrated cuisine with unmatched concierge expertise. For travellers who want to explore Québec City in depth, the Château now offers an unprecedented level of access. Ten Les Clefs d’Or concierges mean more opportunities to unlock the city’s secrets, from boutique wine experiences to private culinary adventures, making every visit exceptional.
