Constructed in 1891, Hotel Paulin stands as the first hotel in Caraquet and occupies a prime waterfront location in the heart of the village. This stunning and rare example of early Acadian architecture continues to stand proudly today, preserved and restored to its original simplicity. As a significant regional landmark, it remains one of the oldest family-operated hotels in Canada.

Initially a two-story building, Hotel Paulin was designed by Nazaire Dugas and built by Hughues Landry under the name Hotel Vandome. After being sold to the Blanchards just two years later, it was renamed Hotel Blanchard. In 1907, Octave and Annie Paulin acquired the hotel, and it became Hotel Paulin. Ambitious Octave added a third story to the structure, making it one of the tallest buildings on the Acadian Peninsula at that time. In 1941, Leo Paulin, one of Octave and Annie’s 16 children, took over the hotel with his wife, Eva. Eva was the daughter of Pierre Albert, owner of the neighboring Château Albert, which was built in 1909. Sadly, in 1955, Château Albert was destroyed by an accidental fire. Today, a reconstructed Château Albert forms part of the Historical Acadian Village.

For many years, Eva Paulin served as the driving force behind Hotel Paulin’s operations. After her husband’s death in 1959, she single-handedly managed the hotel until 1972 when her son, Gérard, left his job at Air Canada to join her. Catering to business travelers, Eva’s excellent cooking skills earned Hotel Paulin a reputation for offering the best meals on the Acadian Peninsula and providing comfortable accommodations with a unique blend of hospitality.

Following Eva’s death in 1972, Gérard Paulin took over the hotel’s operation and restoration. In 2000, he was joined by Karen Mersereau, and soon after, their young son Jules Gérard became the fourth generation of Paulins. Together, they continued the hotel’s restoration, eventually earning a four-star rating from Canada Select. In 2003, they added four five-star luxury suites on the third floor, boasting spectacular views and sunsets over the Bay of Chaleur. The dining room has long been renowned for its excellent cuisine and fresh local seafood, with Executive Chef Karen specializing in original recipes using regional foods and the freshest local ingredients.

Today, Hotel Paulin operates as an upscale boutique-style hotel and dining room, maintaining its historical charm, elegance, and 19th-century innkeeping spirit. Innkeepers Gérard Paulin and Karen Mersereau warmly welcome guests from around the world to experience the rich Acadian history and culture.

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