Take in a uniquely Québécois winter wonderland.
By Laura Oakley
Date December
Hidden just northwest of Montreal, the dreamy Laurentian landscape turns into a fairy talelike adventure during the winter months. The undeniable nucleus of the region is the iconic Mont-Tremblant pedestrian village, but there are plenty of other charming small towns to explore. Here, you can embrace the powdery snow and sub-zero temperatures in any (and every) fashion — whether you’re sipping bubbles in a hot pool at a Scandinavian-style spa or careening down the mountainside on a tube. Luxurious chalets and unique Québécois culinary experiences can be found in many snow-covered nooks and crannies. Here, we present our travel guide to the Laurentian Mountains. Bundle up, and let’s go!
Mont-Tremblant
FAVOURITE THINGS ABOUT THIS SPOT Globally admired skiing, exciting snow sports and lavish accommodations help this bilingual resort village draw visitors from around the world. Take a stroll through the pedestrian-friendly cobblestoned plaza Le Petit Hameau, where the cluster of 15 boutiques and cafés proves that even a blizzard can’t stop shopaholics. At this dreamy escape for winter lovers, relaxing spagoers and adrenalin junkies alike, you’ll channel your inner Elsa in no time.
Stop and explore
Scandinave Spa. Photography by LINDA TURGEON
La Sandwicherie. Photography by MATHIEU LEBLANC
Grand Foret Villa Airbnb Luxe. Photography courtesy of Airbnb Luxe
Boutique La Raffinerie. Photography courtesy of BOUTIQUE LA RAFFINERIE
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MUST-SEE A brisk and exhilarating ride for the whole family, dogsledding at Mont-Tremblant is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Lead your own team of Siberian huskies through your choice of magical scenic valley paths, winding forest trails or rugged mountain routes. From interacting with furry friends to stopping for hot chocolate, this is a must-try winter excursion.
Saint-Sauveur
FAVOURITE THINGS ABOUT THIS SPOT While the Saint-Sauveur area is widely known for outlet shopping, its tiny town centre has plenty of independent boutiques and an impressive number of art galleries. Its short distance from downtown Montreal makes it a possible day trip or a full-on ski vacation. A known foodie destination, it offers ample delicious après-ski options. And once the sun sets, the illuminated hills provide a romantic glowing backdrop for nighttime skiing. Plus, fewer tourists means shorter lines for the ski lifts.
Stop and explore
Cabane à Sucre Au Pied de Cochon. Photography via @CABANEAUPIEDDECOCHON/INSTAGRAM
Au Mazot Suisse. Photography via @RESTAURANTMAZOTSUISSE/FACEBOOK
Skandal. Photography via @BOUTIQUESKANDAL/FACEBOOK
La Nyctale Airbnb. Photography via Airbnb
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MUST-SEE Remember going sledding on the local hill when you were a kid? Yeah…this isn’t that. Les Glissades is an intense snowgliding park offering everything from bobsleds to snow tubes. Varying degrees of difficulty and the chance to partake as a group make this invigorating winter excursion fun for everyone. Let your adrenalin be your guide as you travel the 61 slopes with 80 metres of vertical drop at this Laurentian Mountains hot spot. Bonus: Les Glissades is part of Domaine des Pays d’en Haut, which has a sugar shack, a theatre and helicopter rides.
What to pack
This article first appeared in FASHION’s Winter 2022 issue.