The rich history of Quebec City began with European descendants who came to colonize New France. Known for its architectural value, houses and buildings built in these times testify to the European’s force and creative genius. Hotel Le Clos Saint-Louis is one of these homes. It stands proudly today as it did more than hundred and fifty years ago.

In the middle of the 19 th century, Saint Louis Street was the place where the British colonial elite lived. One of the houses on this street, build by the Racey family is now called Le Clos Saint-Louis.

Built in 1844 and 1854, the buildings are characteristic of the urban expansion of the day. The mid 19th Century's neoclassical style architecture is influenced by a colonial and local flavour.

Of Scotish descent, the doctor John Racey Senior “Dear Papa”, so called affectionately by his wife Suzanna Wise was born in Quebec in 1809. Intelligent, hard working and a generous man, he studied medicine in Montreal. He returned to Quebec City and built 69 Saint-Louis in 1844. Suzanna and John had 5 children.

Dr. Racey died during the epidemic of typhus in 1849 after having treated between 500 to 600 patients. To immortalize the memory of her dear husband, Suzanna wrote a moving letter to her children. This letter is display even today in the big lounge of the hotel.

John Racey junior also became a doctor and ordered in 1852 the plans of 71 Saint-Louis Street to the renowned architects Stanley and Dunlevy. Both houses were then united. Both buildings were then united. Originally the buildings were family homes but they were then converted into a boarding house in the 1950's and subsequently into a small hotel in 1968.

In 1987 Mrs Ghyslaine Donais acquired both houses to fulfill a long time dream of owning a Victorian luxury town house hotel in Old Quebec. Since day one, her purpose was to create a unique experience specifically geared toward her guest’s accommodation desires. It has still been her primary vision and passion ever since.

During the last 8 years, the hotel was completely restored. Today the hotel Le Clos Saint-Louis is a must see for all travelers seeking the authenticity of Quebec City. Whether it’s a short break in the city, a weekend of shopping spree, business travel, or an evening at the theatre, staying at Le Clos Saint-Louis is an enchanting experience. This grand town house is definitely the most romantic Victorian hotel in Quebec City.