Preserving a piece of Canadian history: Hôtel Paulin keeps tradition alive

In the small village of Caraquet, New Brunswick, Hôtel Paulin stands out as a stately and proud testament to those generations who came before. Built in 1890, this waterfront jewel offers a rare and beautiful example of authentic Acadian architecture.  

This vintage property has stood the test of time, evolving into a luxurious boutique hotel that boasts a guest list from around the world. It has been preserved and restored to its original simplicity, while outfitted with the latest amenities to make each stay a memorable one.

“We sit high up on the Cape with great views of the Bay of Chaleur, along the Acadian Peninsula,” says Kareñ Mersereau, Owner and General Manager, Hôtel Paulin, who adds that the property offers four queen rooms, two convertible king/twin rooms, and seven luxury rooms, four of which have waterfront views. Other amenities include direct beach access, a 35-seat dining room, and a piano salon.

History in the making

Kareñ is the third generation of Paulins to run the hotel. Her late husband, Gerard, took over from his mother, Eva, in 1972. Gerard operated the hotel on his own until 2001 when Kareñ joined him in the business.

A successful entrepreneur in her own right, Kareñ ran her own company in Toronto for over 19 years. She put those skills to work when she joined her husband at Hôtel Paulin.

“I focused on elevating the brand,” she explains, who adds that she and her husband spearheaded a series of renovations and restorations from 2003 to 2019. “We elevated the amenities to include fine dining and boutique-style, luxury accommodations.”

Hôtel Paulin actually started out in 1890 as a two-storey structure called Hôtel Vendôme. It was built by owner and carpenter Hughues Landry. Two years later, it changed hands and was renamed Hôtel Blanchard.

In 1904, Octave and Annie Paulin purchased the hotel and the family tradition began. Octave put his mark on the property with the addition of a third story featuring a mansard roof. This made the structure one of the tallest buildings of the time on the Acadian Peninsula. One of the Paulin’s 16 children, Leo, took over the hotel with his wife, Eva, in 1941.

Eva soon became a driving force. She single-handedly ran the hotel after the death of her husband in 1959. During her tenure, Eva established the property’s long-standing reputation for comfortable accommodations and excellent cuisine. Gerard Paulin took over from Eva in 1972.

Hôtel Paulin continues to maintain this reputation today, thanks in large part to Kareñ and her role as Executive Chef. The property specializes in creating original recipes from regional foods and uses only the freshest ingredients.

Gerard and Kareñ have a son, Jules Gerard Paulin, who will represent the fourth generation of Paulins to run the hotel. At 21 years of age, Jules has recently attained his licence as a barber. He and Kareñ plan to add an upscale barbershop to the property as an additional amenity for guests.

Past, present and future

As an architectural gem, Hôtel Paulin provides an authentic glimpse into the past. It has been lovingly restored to reflect all of its grandeur from back in the day.

At the same time, Hôtel Paulin offers a look into four generations of family – each of which have dealt with its own hardship and struggles. But, like the very building itself, the Paulins have withstood the test of time. They have invested their labour and love to make Hôtel Paulin into the outstanding success that it is today.

“Everyone senses the personality and history of the building as soon as they walk in,” says Kareñ. “There is a special feel to the place that people can’t help but notice.”

Steeped in history and cherished by family, Hôtel Paulin remains a special New Brunswick landmark – one that continues to attract guests from all corners of the world.  

- Eastern Hotelier Magazine