Just last week I spent two nights at Fairmont's Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City and I have to say, I felt a little like a princess. Luckily, Quebec's Château is elegant, classy and even a little rugged. It calls to mind none of the girly pink fantasies that you may associate with the word "princess."

2008 marks the 400^th anniversary of the province of Quebec (once encompassing a much larger area of North America, known as New France), and Quebec City, being the capital and one of the oldest cities in North America, is the centre of the celebration. Quebec City boasts at least 11 different architectural styles from Classical Revival (1790-1820) to International Style (1930-1965) but for the most part, the hotel, first built in 1893, reflects a French Renaissance style, which is fitting for the landmark of a city that was discovered by French explorer Samuel de Champlain in the early 17^th century.



Since 1893, the Château has undergone a number of renovations and expansions but it has always maintained its opulent and historic charm. In 1952, Alfred Hitchcock was so taken by the hotel he shot the finale of his film I Confess inside its walls, using the general manager as an extra. The movie also opened and closed with the image of the Frontenac.

                


For castle charm at home, take inspiration from the rich damask and toile fabrics used in the hotel rooms, the replica Renaissance furniture and sparkling chandeliers. Infuse your home with the iconic look of the Château's turquoise copper roofs with lanterns or kitchen accessories with a patina. And frame prints of antique architectural details and carvings.