We stayed 4 nights at the Auberge in La Malbaie and I’m convinced it’s the best choice in the area. Auberge is an old timey word meaning hostel or residence. This is not a shiny new boutique hotel. It’s a well-run quaint older hotel with a variety of rooms and an excellent French restaurant. I recommend the rooms directly above the reception area which have plush beds, wood burning fireplaces, large bathtubs, and balconies with incredible views of the St Laurence. We stayed in room 116.
Stay here for its proximity to the water and the restaurant district within walking distance: just over 1km. I don’t know how to say it other than the vibe is amazing; you’re perched on a hill with sweeping views of the water and the nearby hills. Plenty of places to sit and read outside. And the pool is perfect: clean, good temps and long enough to do laps. Clientele seems mostly older Québécois folks, however there are no elevators so be prepared to climb stairs and a steep hill from the parking lot.