Looking for a romantic weekend getaway without going too far from Montreal? Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie or simply looking for a relaxing staycation, here’s 8 destinations less than 3 hours from the city that have everything you need! From the Laurentians’ breathtaking landscapes to the Eastern Townships’ bucolic vineyards, these getaways promise unforgettable moments combining adventure, romance and culinary discoveries!
1. Vermont
If, like us, fall is your favorite season, we recommend taking a trip to the charming town of Woodstock. With its Stars Hollow vibe, you can stroll through its idyllic streets with a good coffee in hand. The town even has a pretty covered bridge, perfect for a little photoshoot. Hot cider and apple fritters go hand in hand in the fall and you’ll find it all at the Cold Hollow Cider Mill. We suggest you grab some sweet treats to go and then enjoy them in front of the magnificent Moss Glen Falls after a short gentle hike.
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For winter and ski lovers, Stowe should definitely be at the top of your list. This quaint Vermont town is full of life during the winter season thanks to its popular Stowe Mountain Resort, located in the heart of the Green Mountains. Don’t miss its small cafes, restaurants and local shops to complement your outdoorsy weekend.
Whether it’s to experience the most colorful season or to hit the slopes, Vermont really has everything you need for an idyllic romantic getaway.
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2. New Hampshire
If you’re chasing mountain colors this fall, New Hampshire is also one of the best places to venture less than 3 hours from Montreal. Among the must-sees, we recommend a stop at Franconia Notch Park for its picturesque trails in the heart of the famous White Mountains. The hike at Artist’s Bluff will also offer you a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley, ideal for a picnic and photo break at the summit. For an unforgettable getaway to New Hampshire, also add a visit to Flume Gorge to your itinerary, a place that seems straight out of a fairy tale with its impressive waterfalls and cliffs, bordered by a lush forest.
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Nearby, the charming village of Littleton also has plenty of cafes and diners that will automatically transport you in a Gilmore Girls atmosphere. We recommend a stop at Schilling Beer Co., a cute local microbrewery that serves excellent wood-fired pizzas, and The Coffee Pot for incredible pancakes and the feeling of having brunch at Luke’s.
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3. Laurentians
The Laurentians are a perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway less than 3 hours from Montreal, offering a variety of activities for all tastes. For nature lovers, Sentier des Cimes will immerse you in the heart of an enchanting forest, with a breathtaking view of the Laurentian mountains. Meanwhile, Mont-Tremblant National Park will appeal to hiking and outdoor adventure enthusiasts with its beautiful landscapes and picturesque trails, including the Devil’s Fall and Lac des Femmes.
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Looking for a relaxing moment with your loved one? Strom Spa in Saint-Sauveur offers the ultimate wellness experience with its thermal baths in the heart of nature. Foodies will also particularly appreciate the region’s gourmet stops. For a gourmet meal in a bucolic setting, head to the Maison de Soma to experience an evolving menu that respects the rhythm of seasonal harvests, all in an intimate atmosphere.
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Don’t forget to take advantage of your getaway to the Laurentians to explore the best local vineyards like La Bullerie in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac, Rivière-du-Chêne in Saint-Eustache, and La Cantina in the Oka Valley, where you can taste exquisite and refined wines. If you prefer ciders, Domaine Lafrance and Labonté de la pomme offer gourmet experiences with artisanal products to be enjoyed on site or during a romantic stroll through the orchards. Finally, for a great brunch or a good coffee, stop by 83 Nord in Mont-Tremblant or Nordik Café in Blainville, two gorgeous places perfect for a cozy moment with your better half.
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To rest properly, surrounded by nature, you have to stop at Suite Chalets in La Conception. Their superb perched chalets give the impression of sleeping in a luxury treehouse, while being equipped with a fireplace, spacious rooms, a large terrace and a spa. Whether you opt for the SNÖ, the SKÖV or the KLINT, you won’t be disappointed, that’s for sure!
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4. Eastern Townships
For hiking enthusiasts, there’s no shortage of options in the Eastern Townships either. You can explore enchanting natural parks like Mont-Orford National Park and Coaticook Gorge Park, among others. A visit to Mont-Mégantic National Park will also allow you to observe one of the most beautiful starry skies in Quebec, perfect for a romantic evening of stargazing. After a day of exploring, opt for a restful moment at Spa Nordic Station, a haven of peace nestled in the middle of the forest, ideal for recharging your batteries.
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For a bite to eat, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal at the Ôma restaurant in Dunham or a nice lunch at Café Jane in Cowansville, two establishments by chef Hakim Chajar that are definitely worth the detour. The region is also full of magnificent vineyards to explore, such as Léon Courville, Vignoble du Ruisseau, Val Caudalies, Cep d’Argent, Domaine du Ridge and UNION LIBRE, perfect for trying new local wines with your special someone.
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To feel like you’re in Tuscany for an afternoon, we recommend going to Château Ste-Agnès in Sutton for a wine tasting in the most romantic setting! For the end of the season, this sublime historic vineyard whose origins date back to 1846 invites you to discover their delicious late harvest wines and their fortified wine with French brandy! Beyond the tasting, the visit is really worth it for the incredible beauty of the place! It’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of fall’s colors to slow down the pace and stroll among the vines overlooking the mountains.
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Finally, spend the night at Chalets Hygge, an intimate place inspired by Scandinavian spaces where comfort and nature meet to offer a most peaceful stay. Located in the heart of the Chéribourg estate, very close to Mont-Orford, their 6 idyllic chalets each have their own particularities, but all have the same attention to detail and such a relaxing ambiance.
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5. Lanaudière
Offering a multitude of activities to reconnect with nature and recharge your batteries, Lanaudière is a sublime destination to consider for a romantic weekend less than 3 hours from Montreal. For active couples, a hike at Mont Sourire or the Chute-à-Bull Regional Park offers magnificent landscapes with accessible trails and spectacular waterfalls. Dorwin Falls Park is another must-see, where you can enjoy an impressive view while walking through the wooded trails, perfect for an easy stroll with your better half.
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For a romantic dinner or brunch by the water, a stop at Bâtiment B in Terrebonne is also a must. The warm atmosphere and inventive cuisine of this excellent restaurant will certainly charm you. Among the best accommodations in the region, Auberge du Lac Taureau is an ideal option to enjoy nature in Lanaudière while having access to a host of facilities, including a heated swimming pool, a spa area, a private beach and many outdoor activities such as kayaking or even dog sledding and snowshoeing during the winter.
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6. Centre-du-Québec
To start a weekend in Centre-du-Québec off right, visit Shad Café first to enjoy a delicious coffee or a colorful lunch. Then, head to Distillerie du Quai to taste unique artisanal spirits, perfect for couples who like to find local gems. La Flûte à Bec microbrewery is also an ideal place to share one of their brewing creations in a relaxed atmosphere.
For history buffs, a visit to Musée Laurier will transport you to the heart of the Victorian era, in the daily life of one of Canada’s greatest politicians, while Musée des Abénakis will allow you to learn more about the culture and traditions of the First Nations, two perfect places to discover the rich heritage of the region.
To extend your getaway, book a night at Auberge Godefroy, a 4-star hotel that combines comfort, gastronomy and relaxation. Take advantage of their on-site restaurant and their aqua-relaxation area to relax after a busy day.
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7. Quebec
Quebec City and its surrounding areas offer an unforgettable getaway for couples looking for romance and adventure. Jacques-Cartier National Park, located about 40 minutes from the city centre, is perfect for a day in nature. With its varied hiking trails, breathtaking scenery, and accessibility to canoeing and paddleboarding, it’s the perfect playground for outdoors lovers. Mont Ste-Anne is also a great option, offering spectacular views of the region.
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Back in town, stroll the cobblestone streets of Quartier Petit Champlain, considered one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in North America, and visit the superb Place Royale for a trip back in time. Terrasse Dufferin, with its stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the Château Frontenac, is also a great place for a romantic walk. Art lovers won’t miss a stop at Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec, which offers an impressive collection of Quebec works.
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Quebec City is also full of extraordinary restaurants that will seduce epicureans. Opt for a refined meal at Bistro l’Orygine, a romantic dinner at Le Bedeau or let yourself be tempted by the exceptional tasting menu at Bô d’Asie. For a coffee break, stop at Smith Café, where you can even try their new espresso martinis. Then end your getaway with a night (or two) at the luxurious Capitole Hôtel, an exceptional accommodation combining historic charm and modernity that is certainly one of our favorite hotels across the province.
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8. Ottawa
Both historic and vibrant, Canada’s capital is an excellent option for a romantic weekend getaway less than 3 hours from Montreal. Start your visit at the ByWard Market, where you can browse the stalls selling fresh and artisanal products before enjoying dinner at Cocotte Bistro, known for its warm and distinguished atmosphere and its comforting dishes inspired by French gastronomy.
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A stroll along Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is perfect for a sweet moment with your better half. Continuing the walk to Major’s Hill Park, you can also enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the city. A visit to Rideau Hall, the official residence of the Governor General of Canada, is also a must during a stay in Ottawa, although you must make a reservation to enter.
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For culture lovers, Ottawa is full of artistic treasures, including the National Gallery of Canada and the Ottawa Art Gallery, which house diverse collections that will appeal to fans of contemporary and classical art. The Canadian Museum of History, located across the river in Gatineau, also offers a chance to learn more about our country’s fascinating history.
After a day of exploring, unwind with a coffee at Drip House or HQ Café, before retiring to the elegant surroundings of the Fairmont Château Laurier or the chic Metcalfe Hotel, recently named the 6th best hotel in Eastern Canada by Condé Nast Traveler.
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We hope our suggestions will make planning your next romantic weekend getaway even easier and more enjoyable! Whether you’re tempted by an idyllic stay filled with outdoor adventures, gastronomic discoveries or well-deserved moments of relaxation, all you have to do is choose the destination that suits you best. So, pack your bags and take advantage of these moments to create unforgettable memories together!
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