7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Montreal

Montreal, a vibrant city known for its rich culture and history, is also a hub for digital nomads who enjoy the flexibility of working from anywhere. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, sometimes a change of scenery is needed. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend getaway or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the areas surrounding Montreal provide a variety of options to satisfy your wanderlust. From charming small towns to natural wonders, here are seven destinations perfect for a weekend escape.

Mont-Tremblant

Just a couple of hours' drive from Montreal, Mont-Tremblant is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, it's a ski paradise, while the summer offers hiking, mountain biking, and a host of water activities on the lake. The pedestrian village at the base of the mountain is filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it an ideal spot for relaxation after a day of adventure.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Mont-Tremblant is by car, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Montreal. There are also bus services available that offer direct transportation to the resort.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a gondola ride to the summit of Mont-Tremblant for breathtaking views of the Laurentians, especially during the fall foliage season.

Where to Stay: The Fairmont Tremblant offers luxury accommodations with ski-in/ski-out access and a heated outdoor pool. For a more intimate setting, consider the Auberge Le Lupin, a cozy bed and breakfast just minutes from the resort.

Where to Eat: La Savoie is a must-visit for its authentic Alpine cuisine and fondue specialties. For a casual meal with a view, try the terrace at Le P'tit Caribou.

Quebec City

As one of North America's oldest cities, Quebec City is like stepping into a European fairy tale. The historic Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and the iconic Château Frontenac. The city's rich history, combined with its vibrant cultural scene, makes it a perfect weekend destination for history buffs and romantics alike.

How to Get There: Quebec City is about 3 hours away by car or 3.5 hours by train from Montreal. VIA Rail offers multiple departures daily.

Travel Tip: Explore the hidden alleyways of Old Quebec to discover unique art galleries and artisan shops. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony at La Citadelle during the summer months.

Where to Stay: The iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. For a boutique experience, try the Hotel Le Priori in the heart of Old Quebec.

Where to Eat: Chez Boulay-bistro boréal serves innovative dishes inspired by the local boreal forest, while Le Saint-Amour offers a fine dining experience with an extensive wine list.

Ottawa

Canada's capital city, Ottawa, is a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The city is home to national museums, the impressive Parliament Hill, and the Rideau Canal, which becomes the world's largest skating rink in winter. Ottawa's ByWard Market is a bustling area with diverse food options and local crafts, perfect for a leisurely weekend exploration.

How to Get There: Ottawa is about a 2-hour drive from Montreal. Alternatively, you can take a train or a bus, with several departures available daily.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in the spring, don't miss the Canadian Tulip Festival, where millions of tulips bloom across the city, creating a stunning display of color.

Where to Stay: The Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market features modern rooms with city views and a rooftop lounge. The historic Fairmont Château Laurier offers a luxurious stay near Parliament Hill.

Where to Eat: For a taste of local flavors, head to the BeaverTails stand in ByWard Market for a sweet, iconic Canadian treat. For a sit-down meal, try Play Food & Wine for a selection of small plates and an extensive wine list.

Eastern Townships

The Eastern Townships, or Cantons-de-l'Est, are a group of picturesque towns and villages nestled among rolling hills and sparkling lakes. This region is known for its wineries, artisanal cheese shops, and outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking. The scenic beauty and tranquility of the area make it an ideal retreat for those looking to unwind and enjoy the countryside.

How to Get There: The Eastern Townships are best accessed by car, with the closest town, Bromont, being just over an hour's drive from Montreal.

Travel Tip: Take the scenic Route des Vins to explore local vineyards and sample some of Quebec's finest wines. The fall harvest season is particularly festive with many wineries offering special events.

Where to Stay: Manoir Hovey, a luxurious lakeside inn in North Hatley, provides a serene setting and gourmet dining. For a spa retreat, consider the BALNEA spa + réserve thermale in Bromont.

Where to Eat: The restaurant at Manoir Hovey offers exquisite farm-to-table dining, while the bakery-café Le Vignoble de l'Orpailleur in Dunham serves delicious pastries and light lunches with vineyard views.

Magog

Magog is a charming town located by the stunning Lake Memphremagog, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, beaches, and a vibrant main street with shops and restaurants. The nearby Mont Orford National Park provides opportunities for hiking and skiing, making Magog a year-round destination.

How to Get There: Magog is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Montreal. There are also bus services that connect Montreal to Magog, though they may require a transfer.

Travel Tip: Take a scenic cruise on Lake Memphremagog to fully appreciate the beauty of the area and possibly catch a glimpse of the legendary lake monster, Memphré.

Where to Stay: Auberge du Grand Lac offers comfortable accommodations in the heart of Magog, while Espace 4 Saisons provides a more resort-like experience near Mont Orford.

Where to Eat: La Memphré Microbrewery is a great spot for craft beer enthusiasts and offers a menu of hearty pub fare. For a fine dining experience, try the refined dishes at Restaurant Pinocchio.

Val-David

Val-David is a small village known for its artistic community and outdoor activities. It's a hub for rock climbing, with the Parc Régional de Val-David-Val-Morin offering some of the best climbing spots in Eastern Canada. The village also hosts a vibrant Saturday market where you can find local produce, crafts, and live music.

How to Get There: The drive to Val-David takes about 1.5 hours from Montreal. There is no direct public transportation, so a car is the most convenient option.

Travel Tip: Visit the village during the 1001 Pots pottery festival in the summer, where hundreds of potters from across Quebec showcase their work.

Where to Stay: Auberge de la Tour du Lac offers a romantic setting with a spa and fine dining, while the Chalets Chanteclair Resort provides cozy chalets for a more private retreat.

Where to Eat: Café de la Gare is a local favorite for its cozy atmosphere and delicious brunch options. For a unique dining experience, try the vegetarian cuisine at the renowned restaurant, La Table des Gourmets.

Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is a hidden gem in the Laurentians. This small town offers a peaceful escape with its beautiful lakes, such as Lac des Sables, and a quaint downtown area. It's a great spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

How to Get There: Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is about a 1.5-hour drive from Montreal. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most practical way to visit.

Travel Tip: Take a leisurely walk along the Lac des Sables shoreline and enjoy the serene views, especially during the fall when the foliage is spectacular.

Where to Stay: Auberge Aux Nuits de Rêve is a whimsical inn with themed rooms and direct access to the lake. For a family-friendly option, consider the Hôtel Spa Watel with its indoor and outdoor pools.

Where to Eat: For a taste of local cuisine, visit the Bistro de la Gare, which offers a cozy setting and a menu featuring seasonal ingredients. For a quick bite or a coffee, stop by the charming Café Ohana.