Montreal to Montérégie Highway Journey: Meals, Views & Hidden Gems

When you’re dreaming of a summer time escape that completely blends vibrant metropolis life with serene countryside allure, this Montreal and Montérégie highway journey is made for you. From bustling patios and world-class eating places in Montreal’s numerous neighbourhoods to quaint small cities nestled alongside scenic rivers and rolling hills, this journey invitations you to bask in Quebec’s wealthy flavours and laid-back summer time spirit. Whether or not you’re craving unforgettable meals, beautiful views, or hidden gems ready to be found, be a part of me as we discover one of the best spots to eat, keep, and play on an unforgettable summer time weekend getaway.

You may be curious about these Quebec adventures.

Why You Want to go to Montreal and Montérégie

Montreal is fascinating in each season, however summer time breathes a novel, electrical power into town. The air is alive with countless festivals ready to be found, vibrant patios, and quaint neighbourhoods bursting with character. One in every of my absolute favorite issues is to wander by way of the streets, letting town reveal its hidden gems and pleasant surprises round each nook.

Montreal’s culinary scene is nothing wanting spectacular. Boasting over 4,000 eating places, town proudly celebrates a mosaic of world flavours—starting from secretive, cozy bars tucked away in slender alleys to famend Michelin Information institutions providing unforgettable eating experiences. 

It was my first time exploring Montérégie in summer time, and I can confidently say that it’s pure summer time magic. Montérégie is a scenic, sun-soaked area bursting with life, flavour, and allure. Often known as the inexperienced belt of Montreal, this lovely space is dotted with sprawling vineyards, aromatic orchards, glowing waterways, and quaint small cities that invite you to decelerate and savour the season. Whether or not you’re paddling on calm rivers, biking by way of scenic trails, exploring farmers’ markets bursting with contemporary produce, or sipping beer on a sunny patio, Montérégie gives an genuine style of Quebec’s countryside with a vibrant summer time vibe. It’s the right place to flee town buzz, reconnect with nature, and create lasting reminiscences in a picturesque setting.

How To Get to Montreal and Montérégie

A fast 2-hour drive from Ottawa makes Montreal an unbelievable summer time highway journey vacation spot. Montreal is the right weekend getaway or longer you probably have time. 

The area of Montérégie begins throughout the bridge within the South Shore of Montreal. It extends in the direction of Bromont. The charming cities I explored on this submit have been 10 to half-hour from Montreal, making them simple areas so as to add to your journey. 

Do You Want To Communicate French?

No, in all places we explored, we may communicate in English or French. My French is a piece in progress, however I’ve all the time been met with pleasant locals welcoming me to the area. When you communicate French, it’s undoubtedly appreciated, however not a requirement. 

Day One in Montreal: Greatest Locations to Eat, Keep & Discover

Lunch at Le Richmond Marché Italien

Gas up after your drive in with a meal at Le Richmond Marché Italien. They provide quite a lot of Italian specialties and treats, together with pizza, pasta, and cannoli. The restaurant boasts an elegant, industrial-style setting that’s cozy, with distinctive touches together with chandeliers. 

Browse Distinctive Artwork at Arsenal Modern

Take a stroll by way of Arsenal Modern and immerse your self in thought-provoking paintings. The gallery showcases an eclectic mixture of progressive creations constituted of uncommon supplies that problem your creativeness. The paintings is hosted in a former Nineteenth-century shipyard.

A number of standout items actually caught my eye from the mirrors that give the phantasm of transferring with you, to at least one piece that seems gentle however is made solely of toothpicks. 

Keep at Alt Lodge

Verify into Alt Lodge, nestled within the hip and vibrant Griffintown neighbourhood. Griffintown itself is a vigorous, creative district, completely positioned inside strolling or biking distance to historic Previous Port and the scenic Lachine Canal.

Chill out in your trendy, comfy room with beautiful metropolis views. My favorite half? Their rooftop terrace glad hour, the place we had all the patio and its metropolis views all to ourselves. Remember to enable time to take pleasure in glad hour right here. 

Stroll Alongside the Lachine Canal

The Lachine Canal is a motorcycle and strolling path alongside the water. Benefit from the websites just like the Farine 5 Roses signal to folks kayaking by. It’s alive in the summertime with locals out catching some sunshine on the trail or a picnic within the grass. It’s an awesome place to identify native life in Montreal.

The Lachine Canal is a nationwide historic web site managed by Parks Canada. Maintain a watch out for the crimson chairs that will provide you with one of the best view! 

Discover the Atwater Market

The Lachine Canal will carry you to the Atwater Market, a Montreal staple that’s been in operation since 1933. The market is housed in an artwork deco-style constructing that’s thought-about a Montreal architectural gem. Inside you’ll discover a mixture of gourmand merchandise, seasonal fruits and veggies, meals distributors and extra. I all the time make time to go to once I’m in Montreal. I really like looking the completely different seasonal choices. A number of concepts I like to recommend:

• Seize objects for a picnic which you can take pleasure in alongside the Lachine Canal
• Go to one in all their distributors like Satay Bros for Southeast Asian specialties 
• Cool off with a combined gentle serve ice cream from Ca Lem 

Drinks in a Floating Bar at Canal Lounge

This spot is a should in your summer time weekend getaway in Montreal. For a very distinctive expertise, sip cocktails at Canal Lounge, an enthralling floral-decorated floating bar alongside the Lachine Canal. This spot is a summer time should, excellent for traditional Aperol spritzes or one in all their authentic concoctions.  They don’t take reservations so I like to recommend going earlier. We arrived round 6 pm, and it was excellent timing. 

Dinner at a Michelin Information Restaurant

Vin Papillon is a Michelin Information restaurant with a beautiful ambiance and an equally wonderful menu. Get pleasure from eating on their lush patio stuffed with greenery. Their menu is filled with ingenious dishes and artistic takes on classics which are accompanied by a formidable wine checklist to tie the flavours collectively. Their deal with easy, contemporary components actually lets every flavour shine.

I extremely advocate making an attempt their chilli and sesame eggplant dish. I’ve by no means raved about eggplant till this dish. I might additionally advocate one in all their specials of the night time. We received a goat cheese and candy pea tartlette. Our server shared that the peas have been first of the season. The dish sounds easy, however the flavours have been unbelievable. Our server shared that their ham and parmesan in a hazelnut butter was one in all their hottest dishes, so we needed to attempt it! It was additionally the dish we noticed served essentially the most at tables. 

Nightcap in a Speakeasy

Get pleasure from a drink in one in all Montreal’s finest bars with a speakeasy vibe, Atwater Cocktail Membership. Stroll down the alleyway and thru the curtain entrance, and also you’ll step into a wonderful lounge with a formidable cocktail checklist. 

The bartenders craft imaginative drinks that completely steadiness flavour and aptitude. I adored the Don Alphons, a whisky bitter with a tropical mango twist. For one thing each scrumptious and Instagram-worthy, attempt the Smoke Present cocktail.

Day Two: Scenic Exploring and Travelling the World in Montreal

Gas up with Brunch

Begin your day with a candy and salty combine at Barley. Our server advisable sharing the crème brûlée french toast and halloumi plate and so they have been 10/10. I might return and order this very same pairing. From the flavours on the halloumi plate to the crisp edges on the french toast, the dishes have been perfection! I might put this on the checklist of one of the best brunches in Montreal. 

Discover Jean Drapeau Parc

Jean Drapeau Parc is a well-liked spot for festivals and occasions from Osheaga to the F1 races. We visited for the Jardin des Floralies backyard that’s free to go to. From the lagoon to willow timber to gardens, its a beautiful spot to have a picnic or wander by way of. It’s also possible to see the life-size sculptures, mosaïcultures unfold all through the gardens. Jean Drapeau Parc is a straightforward bike or subway experience away.

Transport to Rome at Mano Cornuto 

One other culinary spotlight is Mano Cornuto, the place genuine Italian flavours transport you straight to Italy’s coronary heart. We couldn’t resist the creamy pistachio burrata. We requested our server what dish we couldn’t miss, and she or he mentioned they’re recognized for his or her bolognese or pesto pastas. We went with the pesto and it was bursting with contemporary herbs and flavour. 

Discover Previous Port

I really like exploring Previous Port each time I’m in Montreal and getting misplaced within the charming cobblestone streets. Get pleasure from a day pick-me-up on the fashionable Le Petit Dep espresso store. Discover highlights just like the patios, Ferris wheel and Port of Montreal Tower. Strolling by way of Previous Port is the right addition to your summer time weekend getaway in Montreal. 

In the summertime, there are sometimes festivals to come upon, starting from foodie festivals to fireworks. Verify the occasion calendar to see in case your go to aligns with the schedule. 

Dinner with Mediterranean Vibes 

Really feel like you could have been transported to the Mediterranean with the decor and menu at Bazart Montreal. Get pleasure from a menu full of flavour, that includes their mezzes and charcoal-grilled dishes. We received the tzatziki, muhamara, and octopus, and all have been scrumptious.

I completely cherished the vibe and bohemian decor, from hanging lanterns to the bar with orange decorations. Take a while to stroll round and see the completely different chill zones. At night time, every little thing turns into illuminated with crimson gentle. 

Day Three: See the Sights by Bike

The most effective methods to see Montreal is by bike. The town is extraordinarily bike-friendly. There are over 1000 km to discover. On our bike day, we wandered throughout the bridges to the South Shore to dive deeper into some gems. I might say I’m an off-the-cuff biker, and my husband is a triathlete, and each of us cherished this journey, all talent ranges welcome! You will get our full bike route on Trip with GPS right here. 

Welcome to Montérégie

Crossing the bridge leads you into Montérégie, Quebec—a lush area dotted with charming small cities, serene waterways, wineries, and cideries. Often known as Montreal’s “inexperienced belt,” its fertile soil nurtures an abundance of fruit and veggies, inspiring a formidable array of native producers. It’s the perfect mix of pastoral magnificence and quaint group life. 

We rented e-bikes from Voyager Vélo, who additionally supply a helpful baggage and automotive transport service if you wish to totally embrace the 235 km Véloroute Gourmande, a gourmand biking route connecting Montreal and Sherbrooke crammed with scrumptious meals stops, charming sights, and comfy lodging. Our route was a round-trip throughout two beautiful bridges from Montreal, however you might additionally proceed on the Véloroute Gourmande and add to your journey. 

Cross the Champlain Bridge

Our bike experience started alongside the Lachine Canal, resulting in the Champlain Bridge. Montreal has a incredible bike tradition and devoted bike paths, making this journey clean and protected. Take additional time to pause and soak within the breathtaking views alongside the way in which. From the Champlain Bridge, you’ll see Montreal’s skyline meets the huge St. Lawrence River and the scenic Seaway.

Exploring Vieux Saint Lambert

Persevering with alongside Le Riveraine, we arrived on the charming village of Vieux Saint-Lambert. Reflecting on my many journeys to Montreal, I used to be amazed to find this hidden treasure so shut by. Its important road buzzes with lovingly curated native retailers, all fostering a powerful sense of group. Tucked behind a peaceable backyard is a picturesque fountain and an inviting seating space. It was the right spot to take pleasure in an iced espresso from Le Riverside Café. 

Lunch at La Buvette Saucette

For lunch, we indulged in a wine and cider pairing at La Buvette Saucette, which showcases small producers crafting in essentially the most pure methods. Their fastidiously curated choice spans delicate whites, vibrant orange wines, glowing bubbles, and extra. We paired our drinks with house-made hummus and charcuterie that includes Quebec cheeses, artisan sausages, and contemporary bread from a neighborhood bakery. Chatting with the homeowners, you’ll be able to rapidly inform how passionate they’re, and it flows into each product they carry. This charming spot is a must-visit. 

From right here, you’ll be able to proceed alongside the Véloroute Gourmande or bike again to Montreal like we did.

Journey again to Montreal

We continued our journey and headed to IÎle Notre-Dame – Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. It was loopy to assume we have been biking in the identical spot the place the F1 takes place! 

On our means again, we made a last cease at Parc de Dieppe, the place you may get a beautiful skyline view of Montreal with Previous Port as the main focus. We packed up and made our method to a brand new city. 

Chambly, Quebec

Solely half-hour from Montreal, you’ll discover the charming city of Chambly. This Montérégie gem offers main seashore city vibes with its entry to water adventures and charming important road. I felt like I used to be in a summer time e book or film as we explored. It felt just like the sort of spot the place one of the best summer time reminiscences are made. I couldn’t imagine this incredible small city was so near Montreal. 

Based across the Seventeenth-century French navy settlement, Chambly is the middle of the Richelieu Touristic Route. This picturesque city is understood for its heritage websites, eating places, entry to the water, and extra. 

Keep in a Floating Chalet

First order of enterprise, checking into Eau Villa, a floating chalet on the Bassin de Chambly. The chalet has every little thing you want for a cushty chalet keep, together with a kitchenette, bed room, upstairs patio, spa and extra. One of the best half is the 24/7 water views. I cherished seeing everybody benefit from the water from boats, paddle boards, and seados!

Eau Villa additionally comes with paddleboards, so we hit the water to take pleasure in it for ourselves. We caught the right sundown and will admire Fort Chambly within the background.

What to Do in Chambly, Quebec: Boardwalks, Breweries & Floating Chalets

We spent a while exploring the city earlier than dinner. The summer time spirit was alive as we walked by way of the city. Listed below are a number of the finest issues to do in Chambly: 

• Chambly Canal Nationwide Historic Website, a lock system with some nice water views. You may cross the locks at particular factors
• Quai Chambly, a scenic boardwalk
• Bike or stroll the pathway by the water. See it illuminated with twinkle lights at night time. There are additionally relaxation stations and picnic tables alongside the way in which the place you’ll be able to watch the boats cross by. 
• Discover the city’s’ breweries, together with Delires et Delices, Bedondaine & Bedons Ronds, La Croisée des chemins
• Seize an ice cream at La Croisée des chemins

Dinner at Nord Laboratoire Culinaire

For dinner, we savoured a culinary journey at Nord Laboratoire Culinaire. Chef Raphaël Podlasiewicz crafts daring, ingenious dishes bursting with flavour. I received’t spoil the shocking ice cream dessert flavour, however belief me—it’s unforgettable! Go for the tasting menu to pattern quite a lot of delights.

We ordered completely different programs to share, and each dish was a contender for favorite—from salmon tartare with dill, zucchini with labneh and chilli, beef carpaccio, chive pancakes, lobster pasta, and past. This restaurant was one other reminder of Quebec’s unbelievable meals scene. 

Day 4: Exploring Charming Small Cities 

We awakened in Eau Villa and soaked within the views of the calm water earlier than we launched into Day 4. It was all about diving deeper into Montérégie’s small cities and the gems to discover alongside the way in which. Enjoyable reality: between the three Montérégiennes’ hills of Yamaska, Rougemont and Saint-Hilaire, there are greater than 30 vineyards, cidreries and distilleries. 

Fort Chambly

Fort Chambly is a historic web site situated alongside the Richelieu River. Initially constructed within the Seventeenth century to defend New France from assaults, the stone fort you see at the moment dates again to the early 1700s and performed a key position in main occasions.

Now managed by Parks Canada, it gives partaking displays, guided excursions, and interactive actions that carry over 300 years of historical past to life. We admired the view from the skin and explored inside to be taught extra about this historic fort. 

Cidérie Michel Jodoin

We hit the highway and head to our subsequent cease, Cidérie Michel Jodoin, one of many wonderful producers who’s a part of the Monterégie Cider Route.

Jodoin has been promoting apples on Rougemont Hill for over 5 generations. Jodoin discovered the craft of cider making in Europe, and he was granted one of many first permits to make cider in Quebec. As we speak, they’ve award-winning ciders and wines and a beautiful orchard which you can take pleasure in paired with charcuterie. 

The cidery is on the base of Rougemont Hill. Embark on a hike to the height for a panoramic view of the cidery and the encompassing valley. We selected the three.2km hike (versus the 4.6 km slower hike) to succeed in the highest. Pay in your hike entrance on the cidery, and they’re going to additionally offer you a map to information your hike. There are some lovely forest views alongside the way in which with massive rock formations. 

Domaine Inselberg

Subsequent cease, visiting a Montérégie vineyard, Domaine Inselberg, a surprising orchard and winery tucked into the slopes of Mont Rougemont. It’s an ideal countryside escape for wine and cider lovers. You may stroll by way of rows of apple timber and grapevines, take pleasure in curated tastings of their signature white wines and ciders, or just loosen up with a picnic whereas soaking within the views of close by Mont Saint-Grégoire. The grounds are attractive and the right spot to take pleasure in a wine flight. 

Chill out at Strom Spa

After days stuffed with journey, unwind at Strøm Spa Nordique in Mont-Saint-Hilaire. This spa is a dreamy wellness escape surrounded by forest and mountain views. This Scandinavian-inspired spa invitations you to decelerate and unwind with its outside thermal circuit—together with cold and warm baths, saunas, steam rooms, and comfy leisure areas. You may deal with your self to a therapeutic massage, attempt their signature salt exfoliation ritual, or take pleasure in a gourmand meal on the on-site restaurant that includes native, seasonal components. I really like transferring between the thermal circuit of heat swimming pools and chilly plunges. I often hen out of chilly plunges, however the heat climate and their chilly plunge with a waterfall was the right refresh. Solely 25 minutes from Montreal, this may be a incredible day journey by itself. 

Discover Beloeil, Quebec

Beloeil is an enthralling riverside city in Montérégie, simply half-hour from Montreal, recognized for its scenic views of Mont-Saint-Hilaire and its laid-back vibe. As quickly as we arrived in Beloeil, I couldn’t recover from the combo of river and mountain views. It jogged my memory of landscapes overseas! Stroll by way of its historic previous city lined with quaint cafés, galleries, and eating places, or discover the riverside paths stuffed with unbelievable views. It was one other cease that felt like the right summer time city! We go there simply in time to see the sunshine flip into gold hour for a magical view.

Canons! Wine & Connoisseur Delicacies

Get pleasure from dinner with a view at Canons! Wine & Connoisseur delicacies. We loved their tasting menu whereas soaking within the views and watching boats cross by. They’ve an outstanding collection of Quebec wines and a scrumptious menu with favourites like beef carpaccio, scallop crudo, duck and extra. It was the right meal to finish a beautiful journey. 

This highway journey was the right method to savour Quebec’s unbelievable meals scene whereas uncovering the best-kept native treasures, from vibrant Montreal neighbourhoods bursting with flavour and tradition to charming small cities that really feel worlds away, but lie only a brief experience from town. Every cease gives its personal distinctive summer time vibe, inviting you to decelerate, discover, and create unforgettable reminiscences. Whether or not you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or just craving a refreshing escape, this journey by way of Montreal and Montérégie guarantees an expertise that may go away you longing to return. It’s time to go to for your self and uncover the magic ready simply across the nook.

An enormous thanks to Bonjour Quebec for sponsoring this submit. I had a incredible time on this journey and may’t wait so that you can discover it for your self. As all the time, all ideas and opinions are my very own.