Breathtaking views within a two hour drive of the city.
It’s Thanksgiving weekend, and that means three days off to enjoy the beautiful fall weather this climate treats us to every year. If you don’t get out of the city often, this is the time to go exploring our beautiful Quebec landscapes. These areas are perfect to discover the picturesque views without having to travel very far at all.
Mont Tremblant
The Tremblant village is colourful year-round with its rooftops inspired by old Quebec City, but it’s an especially beautiful destination during fall. Situated next to a lake that allows for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, Tremblant still boasts healthy forests, meaning it’s a treat during fall colours. Just an hour and a half away from downtown Montreal, it’s an easy day trip or overnight stay.
Chambly and Richelieu
These two towns, right next to each other and just 45 minutes from downtown Montreal, have much to offer during the fall season. As the summer harvest comes to a close, it’s your last chance to visit the many farmers’ markets along the side roads. It’s also a cyclist’s paradise, with its long historic canal along the Richelieu River that is especially beautiful in fall weather. Be sure to stop by the historic Chambly Fort along your way!
Orford
A unique destination for its large protected forest area, Orford, like Tremblant, is a hiker’s paradise, offering both challenging climbs and leisurely strolls. The mountaintop offers excellent views of the surrounding forest and farmland. As a bonus, it’s just minutes away from the more urban setting of Sherbrooke, where there is plenty of nightlife and accommodation for an overnight trip. Hop onto highway 10, and Orford is just an hour and a half east of Montreal.
Mount Royal
If you don’t want to leave town to enjoy the colours, you don’t have to! The walkways on Mount Royal are a beautiful and underexploited way to enjoy nature in the heart of the city, and both pedestrians and cyclists are welcome. Our city has its little bit of nature at its heart, a rare opportunity in this world. Go make the most of it!
Lachine Canal
Another one of our favourite spots in town is the Lachine Canal. It’s a long, flat stretch of bike paths and walkways that is especially well maintained by Parcs Canada. It would take all or most of your day to walk its entire length, so we suggest you start your walk at Atwater market, cross the pedestrian bridge to the south side of the Canal, and make your way east towards the Old Port. As you progress, the views of downtown Montreal and Mount Royal are nothing short of spectacular, especially during the fall season.
