Québec landscape

~Zadig MTL~

Québec trips

Nature spas, fruit picking, national parks and lovely inns: my getaway ideas a few hours from Montréal.

Things to do

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Neighbourhoods, parks and museums that are actually worth it.

Discover Québec

Close to Montréal, many outdoor activities and attractions are worth a trip for a day of adventure or a relaxing getaway. Mont-Tremblant National Park: about 2 hours' drive from Montréal, this national park offers spectacular scenery, hiking trails, water activities on its lakes and chances to spot wildlife. Hiking to the top of Mont Saint-Hilaire: less than an hour from Montréal, this mountain has hiking trails for…

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Nordic spas in nature

Québec is full of thermal spas, true havens of peace where you can relax and recharge in nature. Often set in enchanting places, in the forest, by a lake or near mountains, they offer a unique relaxation experience. For example, Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant and Balnea Spa in the Eastern Townships are known for their outdoor thermal facilities, including hot baths, saunas, steam rooms and cold pools, all in a…

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Fruit picking: apples, strawberries, blueberries…

In Québec, picking fruit on farms is a popular, much-loved activity and a wonderful way to connect with nature while enjoying fresh produce. Orchards and farms across the province open their doors for seasonal picking of all kinds of fruit, such as apples, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and many more. For example, the Lower Laurentians region is famous for its apple orchards, where places like Domaine…

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Québec's parks

Québec's parks are known for their natural beauty and diversity, offering unique outdoor experiences. For example, Jacques-Cartier National Park, about 50 km from Québec City, is a favourite for hiking, canoeing and spectacular scenery of deep valleys and mountains. It also has rustic camps in the wild, letting visitors immerse themselves in a peaceful environment. Another must is Mont-Tremblant National Park, the…

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North Shore

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Laval, Terrebonne and around: nature, activities and shopping.

Nature / family

Centre de la nature

The Centre de la Nature in Laval is an ideal family outing. This vast park offers plenty of activities for all ages. With its large lake, visitors can rent kayaks or canoes for a little adventure on…

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Shopping

Centropolis

Centropolis in Laval is a real hub of activities and entertainment, ideal for an outing with friends or family. This lively urban centre has a wide variety of restaurants, shops and entertainment…

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Activity

iFly

iFLY in Laval is a unique indoor skydiving experience that gives you the feeling of flying in a safe, controlled environment. Thanks to a powerful vertical wind tunnel, participants can float…

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Activity / family

La Ferme Forget

La Ferme Forget in Laval is a favourite with lovers of fresh, local produce. This family farm offers an authentic farming experience where you can pick a variety of seasonal fruit and vegetables…

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History / nature

Old Terrebonne

Old Terrebonne is a charming historic district in the heart of Terrebonne, with a picturesque atmosphere, cobblestone streets, old buildings and a warm feel. The area is full of shops, cafés and…

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Laurentians

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Mountains, orchards and wide open spaces an hour from Montréal.

Orchard and cidery

Domaine Lafrance

Domaine Lafrance, in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac in the Lower Laurentians, is the perfect place for a family day of fruit picking in a picturesque setting. This family estate offers an authentic experience…

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South Shore

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Spas, shopping and inns across the river.

Spa / nature

Balnea Spa

Balnea Spa, in the heart of the Eastern Townships, is a true sanctuary dedicated to well-being and relaxation. Set in an exceptional natural setting, between a private lake, mountains and lush…

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Shopping

Quartier DIX30

Quartier DIX30, in Brossard on Montréal's South Shore, is a huge shopping and entertainment complex combining shops, restaurants, spas and cultural activities. With more than 300 businesses, it…

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Québec City area

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Where to stay and what to do around Québec City.

Accommodation

B&B Le Canadien

B&B Le Canadien, in Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, is a charming guesthouse that combines comfort and warm hospitality. Ideally located near the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré shrine and the region's natural…

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Beyond Québec

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A few getaways beyond the border.

Accommodation

Trapp Family Lodge

The Trapp Family Lodge, in Stowe, Vermont, is a beautiful resort inspired by Austrian traditions, offering a unique experience in the heart of the green mountains. Founded by the famous von Trapp…

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Practical info

  • Getting around: a car is almost essential for most of these trips. See the car rental post in Good deals.
  • National parks: Sépaq parks charge a daily access fee; the annual pass pays off after a few visits.
  • Seasons: strawberry picking in June–July, blueberries in August, apples from late August to October.