As an event planner exploring top venues, I eagerly toured DEV Hotel and Conference Centre (Montreal Road, 1950 Cornwall ON k6h 6l2 Canada, Cornwall, Ontario). The 75-acre property, formerly the Canada’s Nav Centre Cornwall, has long been a community pillar. Its recent multimillion-dollar acquisition and rebranding by Devcore Group marks an exciting, transformational new chapter. I couldn’t wait to experience it first-hand.
Moreover, with the rise of online platforms, many event planners are now incorporating elements of online engagement into their events. This trend is particularly noticeable in the gaming industry, where the demand for hybrid events is growing. Combining physical venues with virtual platforms allows for a broader reach and a more dynamic participant experience.
Initial Impressions: A Landmark Reborn
Pulling up to the meticulously landscaped grounds, I was struck by the beautiful facilities boasting impressive, modern architecture. The property’s history stretches back over a decade as an aviation training hub and Nav Canada conference centre. Since then, it has hosted:
- Sporting events like hockey tournaments
- Corporate meetings and retreats
- Government training programs
- Shelter and support during community crises
The new owners plan to build on this foundation and expand offerings to make the DEV Canada’s premier event destination.
Introducing Cornwall’s Newest Event Venue Brand
Entering the pristine lobby with exposed steel beams, I learned Devcore Group had recently purchased the property for $30 million and brought in Atlific Hotels to manage operations. The renamed “DEV Hotel and Conference Centre” represents an exciting future ahead. As I checked in, staff described the vision to become a WORLD-CLASS MIXED-USE COMMUNITY VENUE that drives economic growth.
Unparalleled Conference Facilities
My tour began by exploring the state-of-the-art conference facilities said to include over 70,000 square feet of innovative, flexible event space. Walking the halls, I discovered:
- Customizable layouts with moveable soundproof walls
- Integrated A/V equipment and lighting controls
- Space configurable from intimate boardrooms to massive ballrooms
- Preset room arrangements for various capacities
- Expert consultants to actualize any client’s vision
The DEV delivers exceptional conference experiences matched to all needs.
Recreational Facilities to Refresh Attendees
Beyond meetings, the DEV offers recreational amenities like:
- Modern fitness center and full-service SPA
- Indoor tennis courts
- Scenic riverfront walking trails
- Spacious double gymnasium
- Outdoor soccer and baseball fields
Whether attending a corporate retreat or tournament, guests will find plenty of onsite options to refresh body and mind during downtime. The Cornwall March Break even hosts activities here!
Dining Options to Please Every Palate
No premier venue is complete without exceptional dining. The DEV excels here with three outside restaurants run by seasoned hospitality professionals. From grab-and-go breakfasts to inspired plated lunches to creative dinner buffets, the masterful food and beverage team can cater to any event’s Nav Centre rooms needs. Culinary excellence is clearly paramount.
Lodging Tailored to Today’s Traveller
Beyond the meeting and recreational spaces, the DEV provides 234 superbly appointed hotel rooms and suites. Guests can unwind after action-packed days in these modern, amenity-rich quarters featuring:
- Mini-fridges
- High-speed WiFi
- Plush pillowtop mattresses
- Spacious sitting areas
- Panoramic river views
With space to relax or work, the Canada’s Nav Centre rooms strike an ideal balance.
The Vision: An Integrated Community Showpiece
Wrapping my tour, General Manager Saad Ghannam shared the vision to partner with local stakeholders like the City of Cornwall to ensure the DEV operates as both an economic engine and community pillar for years. Judging by the investments into these exceptional facilities, Cornwall’s future is looking very bright thanks to this impressive new venue!
Final Impressions: A World-Class Events Campus
From the expansive conference spaces to recreational amenities like the onsite NAV Canada Cornwall pool to elevated dining at the centre restaurant to luxurious lodging, the DEV clearly sets itself apart as a world-class events campus tailored to today’s conference needs while maintaining local ties. Any event planner would do well to consider Devcore’s hotel and conference centre when exploring options that “wow”.
I left thoroughly impressed by this remarkably transformed Cornwall landmark. My sincere congratulations to the entire DEV team on curating exceptional offerings with incredible vision! I look forward to seeing the exciting conferences, tournaments, meetings, celebrations and community functions held here next, including during high-volume times like Cornwall March break. Guests can relax during downtime with amenities like the full-service SPA Cornwall, Ontario.
With its unmatched event facilities and proximity to the airport, this is clearly Canada’s premier event destination. To learn more, groups can call Nav Canada or the DEV Hotel and Conference Centre at 1-613-936-5800. This is an unbiased review of the DEV Hotel and Conference Centre based on my tour. If you have any suggestions or additional information, feel free to email me at navcentre@gmail.com