Casino de Charlevoix Expert Review and Rating 

Editorial Team

Casino expert

Updated:
Casino de Charlevoix Expert Review

We went to Casino de Charlevoix for this review so that you won’t have to!

Learn more about your gaming and entertainment options in La Malbaie and check other alternative casinos in Quebec.

Casino de Charlevoix Ratings

Overall Rating

4.6/5

Slot Machines

4.5/5

Table Games

4.5/5

Hospitality

4.4/5

Loyalty Club

2.5/5

Design & Attractions

4.2/5

Casino Rules

4.6/5

Players Reviews

4.2/5

Integrity

4.6/5

Table of Contents

Guide to Our Review of Casino de Charlevoix Montreal

  • Date of visit: 02/14/2023
  • Time of visit: 5h-8h
  • Initial bankroll: $200
  • What we played: Free bet blackjack, slots;
  • Final bankroll: $0
  • Next visit: 08/15/2023

Why the 4.16/5 rating?

We observed and factored in 8 rating variables. Our final rating is an average of all the features we will present after visiting the casino in person.

We played blackjack and slots to present you with an accurate picture of our experience and the game variety offered. We used a separate $1,000 budget to eat at the restaurant and use all the service we reviewed here: the bar, hotel, parking, etc.

Summary of our findings

Address

183 Rue Richelieu, La Malbaie, QC G5A 1X8, Canada

Open hours

Open daily, limited schedule

Membership

Not required

Minimum age

18

ID checks

Challenge 25 policy for non-members

Tables

22

Slot machines and e-tables

1050

Poker room

Yes

Payment

Cash, Card, Bank transfer

Foreign currency

USD and EUR

Slots betting range

$0.1 – $5

Table games betting range

$2.5 – $5,000

Restaurant

Yes

Free drinks

Yes

Free parking

Members-only

Hotel rooms

405

Slots at Casino de Charlevoix – 4.8/5

We considered the game providers’ reputation, variety of games and whether jackpots and promotions are provided. The Charlevoix Casino gets a high rating because it meets many of our demands.

Slots variety at Casino de Charlevoix – 4.5/5

Slot machine Payout rate Minimum bet Provider

Cleopatra Plus

95.02%

$0.1

IGT

Fire Burner

95.00%

$0.15

IGT

Triple Cash Wheel

95.2%

$0.6

Bally

Montezuma Megawas

95.92%

$0.2

WMS

Payout rates signify your odds to win

Land-based casino slots usually have lower RTPs vs online because the local machines need maintenance. If you want to play for better odds with RTPs of up to 99% you should better look in slots online casinos.

Slot machine providers – 5/5

  • IGT;
  • Bally;
  • WMS;
  • iSoftBet + others.

How many slot machines are there at Casino de Charlevoix?

Casino de Charlevoix has more than 900 slot machines to please a wide variety of tastes. Bets start at $0.1. However, progressive jackpot slots may have a higher denomination.

Slots tournaments and jackpots – 5/5

Slot tournaments abound at Casino de Charlevoix.

We tried our luck in the Gagnant à vie tournament for iSoftbet machines, where winners stand a chance to win $1 million or $1,000 per week for life. While we couldn’t unlock the big prize, the experience was enjoyable.

The same slot promotions at Casino de Charlevoix are available across all casinos operated by Loto Quebec.

In terms of progressive jackpot options, you have only one option, playing participating slots in the IGT Powerbucks network, for a maximum pot exceeding $1 million.

Best IGT progressive jackpot slots

Progressive slots Payout rate Min. bet Max. jackpot

Wheel of Fortune Latin Megaways

90.33%

$0.75

+$1 million

Wheel of Fortune Shimmering Sapphires

90.33%

$0.75

+$1 million

Wheel of Fortune 4D

88.89%

$1 (max bet for jackpot)

$500,000

If you’re not a fan of IGT jackpots, you should look online for the best alternative. Our readers at home should explore the newest Microgaming online casinos with exclusive bonus chances for one of the top jackpot slots, Mega Moolah. The best part is that you may get access to progressive slots by other providers!

Verdict on slots

As online casino experts who have reviewed thousands of online casinos before, the Charlevoix Casino in Quebec does come close to an online gaming site with just short of 1000 slots. However, it comes short in terms of jackpots, and online slots sites also have better offers with more than 50 free spins on sign-up for new players.

Table Games at Casino de Charlevoix – 4/5

We were impressed to find free bet blackjack tables, but the betting limits were rather high..

Types of tables available – 4.5/5

  • Roulette
  • Blackjack
  • Free bet blackjack
  • Baccarat
  • Texas Hold’em Poker
  • 3 Card Poker
  • Electronic gaming stations

Table limits – 4.3/5

Game Minimum bet Max. no. of players per table

Roulette

$5

9

Blackjack

$20

7

Free bet blackjack

$15

7

Baccarat

$50

7

Texas Hold’em Poker

$10

6

3 Card Poker

$15

7

The limit for low bets in baccarat is excessive and same for blackjack. Still, you can play with lower limits in the interactive games room, so we cannot lower the rating by more than one point.

Poker room – 4.5/5

They play both no-limit and pot-limit Texas Hold’em/Omaha poker in the room at Casino de Charlevoix, as well as Stud and Draw poker variations.

Tournaments are held for all budgets and there is usually at least one small-limit table open. If you’re a beginner, you’ll have a chance to improve your game by playing against those of your level with bets starting at $10.

Casino de Charlevoix hosts world-famous poker tournaments like the prestigious World Series of Poker, but you get your chance every week with daily prizes. If you want to practice online with lower bets, we recommend claiming a bonus from PokerStars Casino.

Casino de Charlevoix poker room opening hours

  • Thursday: 11:00 – 23:00;
  • Friday: 11:00 – 02:00;
  • Saturday: 10:00 – 02:00;
  • Sunday: 10:00 – 23:00.
  • Verdict on table games

If you’re a high-roller, you will not mind the relatively high table limits. While it’s nice to see that the casino has got you covered with a dedicated room full of low-stake gaming machines with any game you can imagine, the casino lacks a physical craps table.

Hospitality at Casino de Charlevoix – 4.4/5

We could not help but taste one of the four restaurants you can choose from if you play at the Casino de Charlevoix. Our experts measured hospitality by breaking it into 5 important features.

The staff – 5/5

We were guided by polite staff all along during our visit to the Casino de Charlevoix. Unlike other casinos, we weren’t confronted with bully-bouncers, and the dealers kept their cool and friendly attitude even when we pressed them with our questions.

Restaurant & Bar – 4/5

Description of the services provided and brief quality/variety assessment. Mention open hours for the restaurant + dish variety + ingredients, anything of interest about food/drink

St-Hubert signé Casino restaurant schedule

The dining room and take out will be open until 21:00 daily. After 22:00, you can grab a bite from the late night menu up until midnight.

St. Hubert restaurant menu

  • Cheese sticks: $13.75 for 8;
  • Chicken wings: $20 for 12;
  • Garden salad: $8;
  • Club burger: $20.20;
  • St-Hubert wrap: $19.20;
  • Loaded nachos with grilled chicken: $23;
  • Ribs & chicken indian style combo: $36.5.
Casino pub hours
  • Monday to Wednesday: 16:00 until the casino closes;
  • Thursday to Sunday: 12:00. until the casino closes.

Do you get free drinks and food at Casino de Charlevoix?

The casino provides free complimentary non-alcoholic drinks. Food and other beverages may be included in your membership or loyalty rewards.

Other restaurants related to Casino de Charlevoix (same promo packages apply)

  • Le Saint-Laurent;
  • Le Bellerive;
  • Le Point Cardinal.

Our verdict: positive

We’ve only reviewed one of the 4 options near and about Casino de Charlevoix.

Given that you get a taste of the local flair and have a variety of restaurants and dishes to choose from, the prices in St-Hubert restaurant are not too high. Yet, they may be higher than your average restaurant in Canada, so we must lower our rating.

Parking – 3/5

You can park your vehicle in the underground parking right next to the casino for $12. Still, we have to lower our rating because the cost may be higher during busy weekends. If you’re not already a member, you’re not guaranteed a spot.

If you drive around, you’ll find parking lots you can use for free not too far from the casino.

Casino de Charlevoix Hotel review – 5/5

The hotel is a high-quality 5-star lodging option, complete with multiple restaurants, a spa and golf course.

Fairmont Hotel prices

We paid $190 for one night in a one-bed flat. That’s not excessive given the quality and cleanliness we encountered. Still, if you’re not a fan of traditional-style opulency, you’re better off checking other options.

If you travel with your family, the cost would exceed $1,000 for one night, depending on the size of your group. However, if you’re a VIP member or take part in a special promotion, the overall cost can drop 15% or more.

Cheaper hotels near Casino de Charlevoix

  • Hotel au Petit Berger: 3 stars
  • Auberge des Falaises: 3 stars
  • Motel Le Point de Vue: 3 stars (best budget option)

Security – 5/5

  • CCTV surveillance;
  • Entry security staff and inside;
  • Responsible gambling protocols;
  • Anti-fraud measures.

Loyalty Club – 2.5/5

After analyzing the terms of the Charlevoix Casino Privilèges loyalty club, we rated it with 2.5/5 because the best benefits are reserved to the elite VIP members and there’s not much info on how to earn points.

Still, the exclusive promotions and discounts for parking and lodging are attractive perks for any player, and they might be available across all levels.

Casino Privilège rewards – 4/5

The Charlevoix Casino Privilège loyalty club follows the structure of other programs you may have played in. It has 4 tiers with different benefits.

What you get with a Casino Privilège card

  • Welcome offer;
  • 50% off parking (first 2 levels);
  • Free parking (highest 2 levels);
  • Birthday and Christmas gifts;
  • Slot machine reservations;
  • Increasingly better point earning rate;
  • Presale tickets to shows and events;
  • 15% discount for treatments at Amerispa and Moment Spa (all levels);
  • 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% hotel discounts;
  • Access to the High Limit Lounge (only Prestige Plus).

Loyalty points earning rate – 1/5

You earn Privilège points by playing table games and slots.

In order to keep your benefits or progress to the next VIP level, you must earn a certain number of points specific for that tier. We could find no information about the earning rate, which explains our rating.

Be aware that the loyalty club was suspended during our visit. We will update the review when this changes. Ask for more details at the desk if you decide to visit soon.

Design & Attractions – 4.2/5

Casino de Charlevoix lives up to its 5-star reputation and truly delivers an unforgettable experience.

Inside of Casino de Charlevoix, La Malbaie – 5/5

Pass through the castle-like entrance on 183 Rue Richelieu and gamble like an old baron! A lingering royalty feeling will remain once you gamble in that atmosphere.

Luckily, the historic design has got its modern touch in terms of functionality. The gaming rooms and tables didn’t seem old or used at all during our visit.

Taking pictures in Casino de Charlevoix

The establishment is primarily a tourist attraction, so you’re allowed to take pictures inside Casino de Charlevoix as long as you don’t disrupt the privacy of other patrons in any way.

Events – 4/5

Members can hold private events and the packages are highly attractive. You can get your own private croupier to teach your peers how to bet. Or, if you’re planning a large-scale team-building for your company, get the best bang for your buck with all-inclusive packages.

However, there are no shows for regular visitors, and you’re unlikely to see celebrities performing here.

How to reserve

If you want to book the event hall for an event, here are your contact options::

Attractions outside of the casino – 4/5

  • Galerie d’art Au P’tit Bonheur;
  • Regional Park of Hautes-Gorges of the Malbaie River;
  • La Maison du Bootlegger.

Charlevoix is a great place for walks in nature, but not so much for urban entertainment.

Casino Rules – 4.6/5

Our experts took into consideration the limited schedule as the most uninviting aspect of the rules at this casino.

Casino de Charlevoix opening hours – 4/5

  • Monday to Thursday: 11:00 – 23:00;
  • Friday: 11:00 – 02:00;
  • Saturday: 9:00 – 02:00;
  • Sunday: 9:00 – 23:00.

Is there an entry fee?

You will not be charged entry, and registering for a membership is also free.

House rules – 5/5

  • You’re not allowed to enter with backpacks, helmets or similar accessories;
  • The casino is not to be held liable for lost items;
  • Electronic devices are not allowed near gaming devices;
  • You must step away from the table if you have to use your phone.
  • You might be refused entry or invited out if you incite violent behavior.

Dress code at Casino de Charlevoix – 5/5

While there is no dress code in the classic sense, there is a requirement of decency. That means you can wear whatever you like as long as it’s not out of tone with everyone else.

Our take on the house rules

The rules and terms of use are common sense, based on an expert analysis of the relevant documents. An advantage is that they are very open with their clientele, except maybe for cannabis smokers.

Player Reviews – 4.2/5

We ensure to make our review of the La Malbaie Casino the most comprehensive by including our analysis of the most frequently-uttered issues.

Casino de Charlevoix  player reviews

Google – 4.2/5

The overwhelmingly positive reviews from 2438 people on Google highlight the casino’s fabulous aesthetic despite it not being the biggest casino in Quebec.

Tripadvisor – 4/5

Visitors on Tripadvisor and the 4/5 rating on this platform mostly refers to the venue as a tourist attraction. Multiple reviewers say the golf course and spa make it a top attraction.

Possible issues

  • Too many slot machines (unconfirmed);
  • Rude dealers (unconfirmed).

Casino de Charlevoix Integrity – 4.6/5

Our rating reflects a potential issue regarding game payouts. Still, our background checks did not find anything unruly about how the La Malbaie casino is managed.

Casino de Charlevoix operator – 5/5

The casino is effectively operated by the Société des casinos du Québec, the division of Loto Quebec responsible with land-based casinos, to be differentiated from the one managing the lotteries.

Since the corporation is government-run and participates in shaping the gambling regulations, it cannot but operate legally.

Other casinos operated by Loto Quebec

Casino transparency – 4/5

Dealers at the casino in La Malbaie did not seem to rig the games in any way during our visit. However, we could not find RTP information for some slots. The staff wasn’t particularly helpful in this matter, either.

This felt like a lack of transparency because our selected online casinos must share their complete and accurate game payout reports.

Contact methods – 5/5

Website

casinos.lotoquebec.com/en/charlevoix/

Email

[email protected]

Telephone number

418-665-5300 (or 1-800-665-2274, toll-free)

Hotel phone number

418-665-3703 (or 1-800-441-1414, toll-free)

Hotel email

[email protected]

Fax

418-665-5322

Customer service

[email protected]

Casino de Charlevoix Versus Alternatives

Spend your money wiser! Before you choose a casino, ensure that you get a good view over your alternatives.

Casino de Charlevoix vs Casino du Lac Leamy

  • The Gatineau casino has a wider range of slots and triple no. of gaming tables;
  • Both casinos are secure as they’re operated by the Loto Quebec corporation;
  • There are more hotel rooms available at the Casino du Lac Leamy;
  • Interestingly, one casino is situated by Lake Michigan, while the other is by Leamy Lake.

Casino du Lac Leamy is the better option for game variety

Based on our research, Casino du Lac Leamy will please a wider range of players and it will also accommodate more players physically. Still, it cannot beat the 5000 slots and casino games available online at Legzo Casino and many other new 2023 online casinos we picked.

Casino de Charlevoix vs Playground Poker

  • The casino in La Malbaie has 18 poker tables, while Playground has 62;
  • The surrounding views in La Malbaie are far more appealing than what you see in Kahnawake;
  • Playground a larger number of promotions overall, while the casino in La Malbaie focuses more on promotional packages;
  • The loyalty program is more transparent at Playground Poker.

Playground Poker is the best alternative for promotions

If you’re looking for daily promotions to blend your casino experience with dining and bar discounts, consider visiting the Playground Poker. Our experts point out many other possible attractions in their review.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Over 900 slots to play, including IGT, Bally and SG classics;
  • Multiple excellent restaurant options;
  • Relaxed dress code policy and you can take photos inside;
  • Hotel rooms are cheap for 5 stars and you get room service;

Cons

  • Loyalty club terms are unclear;
  • Parking costs $12 for non-members;
  • 20 gaming tables for all games is not enough.

Is Casino de Charlevoix Your Best Place to Play?

Casino de Charlevoix is a great option for roulette players, as betting starts at an affordable $2.5 and there are also tables with higher limits. We liked the addition of electronic games, and the slots are quite numerous, making for a diverse experience for every gamer.