places to visit south shore montreal

Exploring the south shore of the St. Lawrence Bas St. Laurent

By diana ballon.

Although I grew up in Montreal, I was never introduced as a child to Quebec’s rich geography, history and beauty that spreads itself like a rich tapestry across the rest of the province.

But I did this summer—and I had the joy of doing this with my own family. Starting in Quebec City, we travelled first along the north shore of the St. Lawrence through the stunning Charlevoix region and then crossed the Saguenay fjord on a short ferry from Baie-Sainte-Catherine up into Tadoussac and then across the river to Trois-Pistoles to explore the south shore.

I had never explored that wide gaping part of the St. Lawrence River northeast of Quebec City that flows into the Gulf of St. Lawrence past New Brunswick and into the Atlantic Ocean—nor had I ever been as far as Tadoussac.

Tadoussac is a town with an annual population of about 850 that swells to about 200,000 visitors over the whalewatching season. Here tourists come from all over the world to catch a glimpse of any of the 13 species that travel these waters. Whalewatching excursions go out by zodiac (or inflatable boats) or larger cruise ships—depending on your tolerance for gusty seas.

Although there are many hotels and inns to choose from in Tadoussac—the most majestic is the lovely Hotel Tadoussac, reminiscent of the early 1900s with its whitewashed walls, red roof and long front lawn with shuffleboard, mini putt and a sweeping view of the sea. Although our room didn’t have air conditioning, we had a cool breeze that swept in across the water, and a heart buffet breakfast in the morning to fortify us for the next phase of our journey.

We then drove to Les Escoumins, about 25 minutes east of Tadoussac and took the car ferry from there for the 1.5-hour trip to Trois-Pistoles on the south shore. Although this ferry was not an official whalewatching expedition, we saw at least as many whales, and as many porpoises during this crossing: a windless sky, the surface of water was like glass, a perfect time to watch the distinctive white fin of the beluga and curved dorsal fin dolphin-like black head of the minke emerge, accompanied by gasps and ooohs, pointed fingers and clicking cameras of its passengers.

This south shore tends to be less known to Anglophone travellers than Charlevoix, which is unfortunate because it has its own distinctive charm—colourful historic villages (with the church at its centre), lighthouses, national parks, farmland and more deciduous forest than on the north shore.

Our our first night there, after arriving in Trois-Pistoles, we drove about an hour east, bypassing Rimouski —one of the largest cities in the area— to arrive at Domaine Valga , a resort—with a large log cabin and a couple of smaller ones— in the small municipality of Saint-Gabriel. Set on a small lake in a forested area teeming with sugar bushes, this area seemed like a francophone version of parts of Eastern Townships where I holidayed as a child.

The difference is that Domaine Valga really is a Quebecois family resort, and the families we joined at the long wooden dinner table for a communal meal that evening were all francophone. (As its co-owner Eric Gagnė tells me, and I can see from the thumb tacks on the map of the world that hangs on the wall indicating the homes of its guests, visitors to Domaine Valga come predominantly from Europe, and particularly from France, often en route to the Gaspésie.

Over vegetable soup with curry chicken and butterscotch pie that evening, our attempt to cross the language divide went something like this.

Turning to the 11-year-old girl next to me, “Qu’as tu fait aujourd’hui?” (What did you do today?)

“J’ai vu un phoque.”

“Un phoque.”

This girl is either saying a bad swear word, and has a worse mouth than me, or I’m guessing she seen some kind of an animal. A fox, I wonder?

I ask if there is a French-English dictionary. (This shows my age.) And there is none (which shows the age). But a quick Google search reveals that “phoque” actually means seal in French, which she saw in Bic National Park, a coastal park a short drive a way, which is teeming with seabirds and other wildlife, and opportunities for hiking, biking and kayaking.

The next morning after a hearty pancake breakfast, we head to the Forêt de Maître Corbeau on site, which is a 94-obstacle aerial park with ziplines, rope courses with swinging steps, ladders, a tunnel and even a Tarzan rope where you land in a spiderman-like web (or at least my braver 12-year-old son did…). Then we head to the lake for a swim, and again – we’re off.

For our last night, we make our way to the magical Domaine Floravie in Le Bic area of Rimouski. The Domaine consists of seven tiny perfect houses set far apart from each apart in fields of wild flowers bordering the sea, each house a different colour. Ours is orange. Set on wheels, these teeny tiny houses, some with an upstairs loft, are made all of wood, insulated with hemp, powered by the sun, and heated by propane—with compost toilets and fully functioning kitchens.

And as cleverly constructed and compact as these houses are, their greatest beauty is the view out their windows, which frame the wildness of the sea and the remoteness of this wilderness.

Before bed, we light a fire in the fire pit outside our house, and I set out a loaf of bread and pate, cheeses and rillette on our picnic table—supplies that we have picked up from the Boulangerie Folles Farines in the sweet little village of Le Bic about five minutes away.

As the sun sets, we stroll along the sea. My kids spontaneously start to run along the beach, they have a clapping game, we throw pebbles into the sea. (There is no Wifi access here: for a night, I find myself inadvertently but gratefully unplugged.)

The next morning, sadly, we load up the little green wagon with our luggage and then pack up the car, to begin our three-hour drive to the airport in Quebec City. We had only a taste of the south shore. But we’ll be back.

Three-hour whalewatching excursions out of Tadoussac can be booked through Croisières AML

Although we missed visiting the Pointe-au-Pere Maritime Historic Site in Rimouski, you can learn about how the Empress of Ireland got shipwrecked, and board Canada’s first submarine open to the public.

Before arriving in Quebec City, visit Kamouraska, a charming riverside town with beautiful piers, shops, museums and kayaking.

For more information on the region, visit www.quebecmaritime.ca or quebecoriginal.com for information on the province.

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20 amazing day trips from Montreal, less than 2 hours away from the city

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Montreal is such a special city! There’s always something going on – from new restaurants to events, festivals and a booming nightlife that allows you to dance into the early hours of the morning. But sometimes it can get hectic and you just want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Luckily, there are plenty of day trips to take within 2 hours of Montreal. These lovely short road trips will make you think you’re in a completely new place, without having to go super far. And with the current price of gas, this list couldn’t come at a better time.

If you’d rather go on a longer trip, you can check out the best weekend trips from Montreal in our full article here . And if you’re looking for epic road trips all around the provice of Quebec, we have an article about the 15 most iconic drives .

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Table of Contents

The 20 best short trips from Montreal

Before we get started on our list of amazing day trips from Montreal, here’s how we’ve broken it all down for you.

As always, we broke down the list by how far each of the places is to make it easier for you to plan your trip. We’ve also grouped them by region, so if you want to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway from Montreal, you still can.

These short trips from Montreal are great if you’re looking to visit one place, or make it an epic road trip and group them together for a longer vacation getaway.

6 best day getaways from Montreal that are around the island

Here are the best super short trips from Montreal. So short that you barely have to leave the city! These places are easily accessible from the island. They’re either on the North or South shore of the island. So if you’re looking to go for a full day trip or just an afternoon or a morning exploration, they’re the perfect places to visit near Montreal!

1. Head to Montreal’s closest national park, les Îles de Boucherville, the perfect short trip from Montreal

One of our favorite places to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city is escaping to the Îles de Boucherville national park . This beautiful park has a ton of activities to offer, in the summer like the winter. It’s located a mere 20km from Montreal. This national park has 5 little islands in the heart of the Saint-Lawrence River – the perfect playground for nature lovers.

Beyond its 21 kilometers of multi-purpose trails, you can also go hike, kayak, canoe, rabaska, bike, or play beach volleyball in the summer. Or you can go snowshoe, hike, cross-country ski, or kicksled in the winter. Year-round, you can spot quite a few birds (over 200 different species, actually) and even white-tailed deer.

If you’re looking for the best national parks near Montreal, including more information about the Îles de Boucherville park, make sure you check out our article here . If you plan on taking a longer road trip, you can check out our article about the best national parks in Quebec too.

Beyond the national park, Boucherville is also home to Parc de la Frayère , where you can catch an epic sunset, watch the water birds or explore the fauna in the marshes.

You can also head to the New Deal Brewing Co , a local microbrewery where you can enjoy some local beers. Beyond supporting a local company, you also get to help them with their mission to minimize their ecological footprint all while supporting their tangible social involvement in their community. That’s pretty awesome!

Whether you only visit the park or decide to venture out into the town, there are plenty of things to do in Boucherville. This should keep you busy most of the day. This place is the perfect day getaway near Montreal!

2. Discover Mont-Saint-Hilaire, a picturesque Monreal day trip

Mont-Saint-Hilaire is a gorgeous area near Montreal. It’s one of those places that feels so far, but it’s only a short drive from Montreal.

One of the best things to do in Mont-Saint-Hilaire is to hike the trails of the Gault Nature Reserve . This park is owned by McGill University. The reserve protects more than 1,000 hectares of natural forest, hosts 25 km of trails, and offers four viewpoints of Lake Hertel.

The trails at the Gault Nature Reserve are not very hard, but they tend to get quite crowded on weekends. Apart from hiking, the Reserve has a ton of conservation efforts you can learn more about. You can go bird watching in warmer months, or go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. There’s also a little beach by Lake Hertel where you can plop down, have a picnic and enjoy the view.

If you’re looking for the hikes near Montreal, including more information about the Gault Nature Reserve, make sure you check out our article here .

You can also visit the Vignoble Les Murmures , where you can enjoy some local wine. Or, head to Brasseurs du Moulin for beer tasting and discoveries. Another option is to head to one of the many apple orchards around. In the fall, you can go apple-picking. You can also visit them year-round and try their apple ciders or one of their many apple products.

Another great option, especially on a rainy day, is to visit the Musée des beaux-arts de Mont-Saint-Hilaire , their amazing museum. There are always great expositions going on. Or if you just want to relax, check out the Strom Spa in town.

Mont-Saint-Hilaire is a quiet place where you can enjoy some of the best outdoor activities, only a short drive from Montreal. Perfect for a day trip or an afternoon getaway!

3. Head to St-Jean-sur-Richelieu for a quick day trip near Montreal

Located about 40 minutes south of Montreal, you have the historic town of St-Jean-sur-Richelieu. For Montrealers, this is the hot air balloon mecca, and it’s a great place to explore if you want things to do around Montreal.

This is where you’ll find the Chambly Fort , a historic monument and boardwalk along the water. You can walk or bike along the path and enjoy views of the locks and boats passing by. There are also a few restaurants and terrasses where you can enjoy a bite to eat while gazing out. In the winter, you can skate along the path in nature at the Roland-Beauregard park perfect during the day or at night.

But what makes St-Jean-sur-Richelieu so special is the hot air balloon festival that takes place here every summer. In mid-August, the International Hot Air Balloon festival takes place here. For one week, the largest number of balloons in the country take flight in this town. The festival brings to town music, food tastings, carnival rides and games and a ton of other activities. It’s truly a great experience!

4. Check out the different spots in the South of Montreal, perfect for a Montreal day trip from the city

The South shore of Montreal has a ton of different places to check out. This makes it one of the places to escape from Montreal.

Sure, you have the Îles de Boucherville national park, but you also have the Saint-Bruno national park. You can also hike in Mont-Saint-Hilaire. There are plenty of parks and hiking trails all around the Montérégie region, on the south shore of Montreal.

Another great place to visit is the Chambly Fort, where you can walk along the path on the water. It has exceptional views. The Strom Spa in Mont-Saint-Hilaire is the perfect place to disconnect from the hectic pace of Montreal and enjoy a relaxing moment.

The region of Montérégie, on the south shore of Montreal, has a ton of things to offer, no matter what you’re looking to do. From indigenous art and culture to foodie finds, museums and beaches, there is so much to discover on the south shore, just a short drive from Montreal.

5. Explore Oka, a beach, hiking trails and culture so close to Montreal

Oka is another fan favorite of Montrealers. It’s easy to see why! There’s so much to do in such a small place, and especially, a short drive from Montreal.

The national park in Oka is less than a one-hour drive from Montreal. Here you can find one of the province’s best beaches, especially when it comes to being so close to the city. It does tend to get crowded, mainly on weekends when the weather is nice. But it’s still a great outing and a short drive from Montreal.

Another great thing about this park is that you can visit a complex of historic buildings that are unique in America and the wetlands. Plus, it’s the perfect place to get a view of the Lac des Deux Montagnes and the Adirondacks. In the summer, other than the beach, you can go hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. In the winter, you can explore the trails on a fat bike or kicksled. You can also go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Oka is also home to many historic places like the Oka Abbey and the Calvaire d’Oka , where you can also hike. Or you can check out the pristine Lac des Deux Montagnes (Lake of Two Mountains). At the Abbey , you can also go and taste the famous Oka cheese. This is one of Derek’s favorite cheeses. It was first produced here by trappist monks and has been a staple of Quebec cheeses for over a hundred years.

Whether you’re looking to chill on a beach, go hike or explore the rich history of the area, Oka makes for a great day trip from Montreal.

6. Discover the North shore of Montreal, one of the best road trips from Montreal

Beyond exploring Oka, the North shore, from Laval to Saint-Jerome, has so much to offer those looking for a quick getaway from Montreal.

Ok, if you say ‘Laval’ to Montrealers, they will automatically think of the Carrefour Laval Mall, one of the largest malls close to Montreal. Or they’ll think about the insane amount of traffic there is to get there. But there are so many places to explore in such a short distance from Montreal.

The Parc de la Riviere-des-Milles-Îles is a beautiful park in Sainte-Rose. it’s home to protected wildlife, super calm waters and stunning views over the water. If you’re looking to kayak or canoe, you can rent them here. The Berge aux Quatre vents is another great place. These sandy banks on the river are like having a beach, but not so far from Montreal!

You can also check out the Chateau Taillefer Lafon , a castle in the middle of Laval! Here you can taste the local wines, walk around the grounds and shop their boutique where many local products are sold. The Chateau is dedicated to taking care of the environment, and local producers and businesses in the area.

And if you really want, you can check out the typical Laval things like shopping at Carrefour Laval , watching a movie at the Colesseum , learning about the universe at the Cosmodome , or learning to fly at SkyVenture .

Even though Montrealers often have a rivalry with Laval, there is still plenty of things to do here, such a short drive from Montreal.

3 amazing Montreal day trips in the Laurentians

About 45-minutes to 1.5 hours North of Montreal, you will get to the Laurentians. This area of Quebec is probably one of the most popular places to escape the city, in the summer and in the winter. There’s just so much to do here all year-round.

In fact, the Laurentians are one of the most popular touristic regions in Quebec. With plenty of mountains to hike up or ski down, a bunch of lakes to chill on and rivers to explore, plenty of waterfalls to see, plus a growing foodie scene, there’s something for everyone here!

7. Drive up to Saint-Sauveur for a perfect short day trip from Montreal

Located about 45 minutes driving north of Montreal, Saint-Sauveur is a quaint little town to explore, in the summer and in the winter.

For those who love to hit the slopes, the town of Saint-Sauveur offers many different hills to ride. All these hills are located a quick drive from each other, like Mont-Saint-Sauveur , Mont-Avila , and Mont Habitant . You can also go tubing on the hills, which is super fun to do.

If you don’t want to ski or snowboard, there’s a beautiful park where you can ice skate in the winter. The Parc John-H. Molson Outdoor Skating Rink is an ice trail that goes through the forest. It’s a beautiful place to skate when the cold weather hits. It’s even open at night, with lights along the trail, so you can make a romantic evening out of it!

In the summer, the hills are taken over by waterslides and luges. The waterpark is the best one of its kind in Quebec. If you’ve never tried it, it’s well worth making the trip. It can be tons of fun! However, if you can, try to go during the week as weekends tend to get very busy and crowded, which means long lines in the scorching heat!

Another great option in Saint-Sauveur, as much in the summer as the winter, is to walk around the main part of town, on the main road. There, you will find tons of little local shops and boutiques, as well as a few great restaurants. Crèperie à la Gourmandise Bretonne is one of our childhood favorites!

Saint-Sauveur is a great place to discover on a short trip from Montreal. There’s plenty to do here, especially if you combine it with a half-day activity (which can easily turn into a full day!)

8. Go to Mont-Tremblant, the resort town that’s a great escape from Montreal

Just past Saint-Sauveur, about 1.5 hours from Montreal, you’ll find the most famous (for now) resort town in Quebec. Mont-Tremblant is where you’ll likely run into some celebrities like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Michael Douglas or Laurence Stroll who all own property in Mont-Tremblant.

The Mont-Tremblant resort is where most people choose to go when visiting this area on a day trip from Montreal. This town was created at the foot of the ski resort and is a family-friendly and party-friendly place to hang out for a day or even a weekend ! Here, you’ll find a ton of shops, boutiques, hotels and restaurants. There’s something for every taste, and budget… but it is more expensive than staying in town.

In the summer, or in the winter, you can do a ton of activities here. In the winter, the slopes are the place to be. These hills are the tallest you’ll find within a 2-hour driving radius from Montreal. Other notable hills like Mont-Laurier and le Massif de Charlevoix are much further.

In the summer, you can try rock climbing, riding the luge down the hill, and taking the gondola up the mountain. There’s also the option to zip-line or to check out the night projection show: Tonga Lumina . You can also play golf, go hike at the national park or chill out at the many spas in Tremblant. You can also go white water rafting on the Rivière Rouge if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. There is no shortage of things to do here!

Mont-Tremblant is also a great place to check out the fall foliage. In mid to late September, the leaves change color and the mountains come alive with bursts of red, orange and yellow! It’s really a beautiful site to see! There’s the Mont-Tremblant national park where you can hike up different hills to get an amazing viewpoint of the foliage.

Depending on what you plan on doing here, you can either spend a day in Mont-Tremblant, or you can easily spend a week. There’s really plenty to do here.

Looking for a place to stay in or around Tremblant? Check out this article where we share the best accomodations near Mont-Tremblant (and all around Quebec). We also have another guide about the best hikes in the Laurentians .

9. Tour the Laurentians on a day getaway from Montreal, one of the best short road trips from Montreal

Of course, if you plan on going on more of a road trip on your day escape from Montreal, you can always tour the Laurentians! There are plenty of cute towns along the way from Saint-Sauveur to Mont-Tremblant (and further).

You can start your short road trip from Montreal in Saint-Sauveur, walk around the town and visit a few stores, you can also go on a tour of the Lac des Sables.

Then, on your way to Mont-Tremblant, or further, you can stop by the cute towns of Saint-Adolphe-D’Howard, Sainte-Adèle, Morin Heights, Sainte-Agathe-Des-Monts, Val David and more.

Another popular way to tour the Laurentians is to ride Le P’tit Train du Nord trail. This is a 234-km cycle path built over an old railway line. It goes from Bois-des-Filion to Mont- Laurier. It’s the longest park of its kind in Canada! You can also rollerblade or walk on the trail.

Sure, you can drive down the highway, but we recommend you take the scenic route instead. This way, you can explore more of the towns and really enjoy the beauty of the regions. Winding roads, hills and lakes, plenty of lush forests await you on your path.

Again, you can stay and visit the Laurentians on a short day road trip from Montreal, or you can stay here all weekend or even longer. There’s plenty to do!

If you want to check out the best hikes in the Laurentians, we have you covered! Discover our full article on all the best hiking trails in the Laurentians of Quebec, and find out exactly what you need to have the best time yet!

4 short road trips from Montreal in the Eastern Townships

Another one of the great Quebec tourist regions to explore is the Eastern Townships . This area has so much to offer in such a short drive from Montreal.

From cute towns to ski hills, bike paths, spas, golf courses, amazing hikes and national parks , wine and microbrewery routes, there’s really something for everyone here.

We have an article that covers all the best things to do in the Eastern Townships. You can find it all here .

10. Visit Orford on a day getaway from Montreal

Orford is the main town you can visit in the Eastern Townships. It’s a great place to base yourself if you’re looking to set up camp and explore for more than a day. If not, the town has tons of things to do.

Orford is home to one of our favorite national parks. At the Mont-Orford National Park, you can find amazing hiking trails that range from the easy to the more challenging. You also have access to bike paths, a beach, lakes and more. In the summer months, you can rent kayaks, canoes, pedalos, SUPs and more. You can also just chill on the beach if you prefer.

The main street in Orford has a ton of great shops and restaurants to hop into. You can also explore the nearby wineries, the lavender field or breweries. At night, the main street comes alive with live music pouring out from the many pubs.

In the winter, you can hit the slopes at Mont-Orford, or snowshoe at the national park. You can also choose to skate on the path they create just on the water. The frozen trail is beautiful to glide on at sunset.

Orford is an amazing place to visit on a day trip from Montreal. There’s just so many different things to do here, in such a beautiful setting.

11. Discover the hidden gem of Coaticook and all its things to do outside Montreal

Not many people think of heading to Coaticook when they go on road trips from Montreal . But this little town has so much to offer.

First, one of our favorite hikes ever is located there. Mont Pinacle is a short 1-hour round-trip hike that has one of the best views for sunset. On weekdays, the trail and the summit are practically empty. The hike is only open from May to November.

There’s also the Coaticook gorge that you can hike. This trail is a great easy one that goes along the gorge, into a cave, up an observation tower and across the longest suspended pedestrian bridge. It’s also home to Foresta Lumina , an illuminated projection experience in the heart of the forest.

Coaticook is also where they make amazing ice cream. So on hot summer days, you can visit the ice creamery, get a tour of the factory and enjoy some delicious ice cream.

You can also hang out on the shores of the many lakes around Coaticook. Lac Lyster is a great little beach where you can chill out and enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake. If you want to stay overnight, there are many camping options around, or you can head back to Orford and stay at Chalets Hygge , our favorite cabins in the Eastern Townships .

12. Discover the scenic town of Sutton, a short day getaway from Montreal

Sutton is another one of those amazing places to discover on a short getaway from the city. Nestled in the mountains, this cute town has so much outdoor fun to offer, as well as some hidden gems too!

Located very close to the US border, Sutton is in a very hilly region of Quebec. It’s no surprise that it’s home to some great ski mountains, like Mount Sutton. Perfect for those who want to rip down the slopes. There are also a few microbreweries around where you can grab a drink for your après-ski, or on a hot summer day.

During the short Quebec summers, you can visit the vineyards in Sutton. Or stop and say hello to the alpacas. Walking around the main town is also really beautiful. Or even just driving around on the Route des Cantons. It makes for fun, scenic and lazy day trips from Montreal.

There’s also the Diable Vert that’s a great place to check out while in Sutton. You can pretty much spend a whole day here. There are hairy Highland cows to admire, the flying bike to ride (VéloVolant), many hiking trails to explore, as well as a lazy river to drift down. Or, if you want more active water sports, you can rent their kayaks or SUPs.

And if you want to spend more than a day here, they have some pretty cool accommodations to book , like treehouses, pods, rustic cabins and more!

Sutton is another one of those beautiful day trips to take from Montreal.

13. Tour the Eastern Townships for your day escape from Montreal

We’ve mentioned already how the Eastern Townships are one of our favorite regions in Quebec. Nestled in the mountains, windy roads, lush forests, plenty of lakes and a burgeoning wine scene! What more could you ask for?!

You can start your journey in Orford and go for a short hike or hang out at the beach at the Mont-Orford national park. When you’re done, head to North Hately, a beautiful town on the water. You can walk around the boardwalk and grab lunch there.

From there, you can drive along the Chemins des Cantons, where you’ll encounter many vineyards and microbreweries as well as so many quaint towns to discover. The Townships Trail takes you around 31 towns in total. Interesting stops include Magog, Frelighsburg, Stanstead, Sutton and Sherbrooke.

If you finish your route in Sherbrooke, make sure you stop at Strom Spa Nordique . It’s the perfect place to unwind and disconnect after a long day of exploring all the fun things to do outside Montreal.

The Townships Trail (or Chemin des Cantons) is probably the best way to discover the very best of the Eastern Townships. On summer days, spend as much time as possible – there are plenty of beaches where you can cool down. In the winter, the vineyards and microbreweries will keep you warm. And on fall days, treat yourself to an old fashion road trip. The colors in this magical landscape will blow your mind!

2 amazing Lanaudière day trips from Montreal

Lanaudière is one of those areas that has not yet been discovered by many Quebecers. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Montreal, and there’s so much to discover in this region.

The main attractions here are waterfalls. They’re really plenty to discover in this area. Plus, with all the mountains around, your drive here will be beautiful!

14. Discover some waterfalls in Lanaudière, near the Seven falls regional park

From Montreal, head toward the Seven Falls Regional Park. Here, you can choose to hike some of the many trails. Some are easy while others are harder. There are quite a few hikes that will give you an amazing view of the Matawinie region.

The main reason to head here is the many waterfalls in the park. An easy hike is the Voile de la mariée (Bride’s veil) which is a short 2km hike that takes you to a beautiful waterfall. More challenging hikes are Mont Barrière (at an altitude of 610 meters) or the rocky ridges of Mont Brassard (at 650 meters).

Once you’re done in this park, you can head to the Chutes à Bull park . They are just 30 minutes apart. Here, you have a ton of short hikes. It’s the perfect park for families to explore.

At the end of the hike, you have the impressive Chutes à Bull that you can admire from many viewpoints. You can also head up the hill there where you will find another viewpoint and platform. This is the perfect place to catch a sunset.

Along the routes in Lanaudière, you’ll find many restaurants and microbreweries to try. But in certain towns, choice is limited. We recommend coming prepared with snacks and maybe lunch, if you have certain dietary restrictions.

If you plan on staying the night, we recommend booking one of these cool pods at Les Boisés de la Rivière Noire .

15. Head to Rawdon and the Dorwin Falls, amazing places to go near Montreal

Another great place to discover in Lanaudière is the area in Rawdon. It’s a cute town with a few fun things to do, either as a full day or as a driving road trip through the area.

Rawdon is a lovely town about an hour or so away from Montreal. It’s full of amazing things to do. Especially for those who want to spend time outside.

First, Rawdon is home to the Dorwin waterfalls. These falls are an impressive 60 feet in height and you can see and feel them crashing down on one of the two lookouts. They are located in a park that bears the same name where you also have 2.5 km of paths to stroll around.

There are also many outdoor activities to do like hiking the many trails of the area, mountain biking or just cycling the paths around, playing golf with friends, or challenging yourself at ‘arbraska’. This is when you go on a path in the treetops, hanging from wires, stepping on planks and nets to get to the end.

And if that’s not enough, you can also check out one of our favorite outdoor spa experiences at La Source Rawdon . It’s a lovely spa with many hot and cold baths that you can dip in and out of.

Rawdon is really a great place to discover and it’s so close to the city. At only an hour away, it’s one of the easiest day trips to take from Montreal.

4 lovely day trips from Montreal in the Outaouais region

Outaouais is another great tourist area in Quebec that hasn’t been explored so much. Which is a great reason why you should head there. Fewer crowds mean more fun. Always!

Although Outaouais is a very large region, we focused on the parts that are accessible within less than a two-hour drive. This means you’ll have more time to explore where you choose to go.

If you want a full guide to all the best things to do in Outaouais, we’ve got you covered. Check out our article here for your Outaouais summer travel guide.

16. Exploring the peaceful Chutes de Plaisance

The Plaisance waterfalls are located about 1h30 from Montreal. This site is great to explore as part of a larger road trip or on a full-day trip from the city.

At a height of 63 meters, the Chutes de Plaisance are a great site to discover. These falls are very easy to access and explore. There’s a large parking lot at the entrance which makes access easy. The first belvedere is a short walk from there.

You also have access to many picnic tables all around the grounds, some at the top of the falls, where you can relax and enjoy the view. If you pack a lunch, you can treat yourself to some delicious food with an epic view.

The hike from the top to the bottom of the falls is about 1 km long. The trail is very well maintained. And at the end of the trail, there is a little beach where kayaks come to dock for a bit, or where you can take a dip. This is another great place to set up shop and hang out for a while.

Although this might seem like too short of a day trip, it’s nice to take some time and chill. The Chutes de Plaisance park is best enjoyed slowly. If not, you can combine it with a trip to the next destination.

Looking for more waterfalls to explore? Check out our full article about the best waterfalls in Quebec .

17. Explore the cute town of Montebello on a day getaway from Montreal

Another cute town to visit in Outaouais is Montebello. This town is home to the renowned Chateau Montebello , which is excuse enough to stay overnight. It’s also where you can experience the Rockfest – a 3-day rock music festival that takes over the main park in town. But on regular days, it’s a quaint town to explore.

One of the best things to do in Montebello is to check out the world’s largest log cabin – The Fairmount Chateau Montebello . This Canadian Landmark is worth exploring in its own right. This is where many international political events took place, like a G7 summit and a NATO meeting as well. It’s also where you can walk on the grounds, play golf, or enjoy one of the 40 activities available on site. However, since the pandemic, access to the Chateau Montebello has been limited to guests only.

Around town, another great place to visit is the Manoir Papineau . You can walk around the beautiful grounds and hiking trails around – it’s actually connected to the Chateau Montebello . Or, you can visit the Manoir itself. Either way, it’s a lovely place to go for a stroll and take in the history of the area.

Other great stops include the Brasseurs de Montebello and the Chocomotive Economusem . The brewery is wonderful on sunny days. You can sit on their terrasse (patio) and enjoy a brew. Best of all, they have quite a few meal options as well, including quite a few vegan dishes!

As for the Chocomotive Economuseum, you can see how chocolate treats are made. This little boutique and chocolatier is a great stop if you’re looking to treat yourself. In the back, you see the master chocolatier make their delicacies. Sometimes, you can test out the treats they make, if not, you can also buy them to take home. Unfortunately, there weren’t any vegan options when we visited.

Walking around the main road is also a fun thing to do, just to take the vibe of the town in. These are all the fun things to do in Montebello on a short trip from Montreal.

18. Explore the Val-des-Monts area, a short drive from Montreal

The Val-des-Monts area is about 40 minutes from Ottawa and around 2h30 from Montreal. It’s such a great region to check out on a day trip from Montreal, especially on a hot summer day.

First, you can start the day off at Eco-Odyssée Nature Park . This is a water maze, walking maze and conservation effort all rolled into one. You can pedalo, kayak or SUP on their water maze where you can discover a few beaver dams. In the winter, you can even go skating on the maze. On Fridays and Saturdays in the summer, after sundown, you can enjoy a projection show here as well.

Around the Eco-Odyssée park, you will also find an Arbraska adventure (trails in treetops) and hiking trails in Nakkertok park . Great for spending time outdoors. You can also explore around the old town of Wakefield, with a mandatory stop at the Wakefield Mill .

A perfect way to spend the afternoon is by going to Nordik Spa in Chelsea. This is North America’s largest outdoor spa. And it’s also home to Kalla, which is one of only two salt water pools in the world. This place is perfect to relax, unwind and chill out. There are also a few lakes in the area that you can visit if you’re looking to hang out by the water.

All in all, this area is so great if you want to reconnect with nature. The scenery is breathtaking with all the mountains and lakes, and there’s so much to explore. If you feel like a day trip is not enough, make sure you book a stay at Hom Mini Chalets . They’re the perfect cabins for couples.

19. Tour the Quebec tourist region of Outaouais on a getaway from Montreal

As we mentioned, Outaouais is a great region to explore, but it’s also very vast. But the parts that are within a two-hour drive from Montreal will give you a sneak peek into what makes Outaouais so special.

Start off by heading to Montebello, and explore the town and some of its main sites. You can then go to the Plaisance waterfalls , only 15 minutes away. This is a perfect way to spend the morning.

After, head for lunch at the Wakefield Mill. Weather permitting, you can sit outside and enjoy the view there. Walk around town – it will make you feel like you stepped back in time.

Then, you can either head to Ottawa for an afternoon of exploring the nation’s capital, or head to the Val-des-Monts area where you can go on an outdoor canoe adventure, or relax at the spa. The possibilities are endless when you explore everything Outaouais has to offer.

Want to discover all the best things to do in Outaouais? Check our full article out here .

A last fun day trip from Montreal in Ontario

Our last day getaway from the city will take you to Ontario. Specifically to Ottawa. If you’re exploring the Outaouais region, it’s a great place to stop, as you’ll probably be driving through here.

In the summer like in the winter, there are some great things to do in Canada’s capital city.

20. Discover Ottawa on a quick day trip near Montreal

Located just under two hours away from Montreal, Ottawa is a great place to visit on a day trip or a longer weekend getaway .

A classic trip includes a stop at Parliament Hill. The Neo-Gothic building is an iconic part of Ottawa’s landscape and is the home of the Canadian legislature. The Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery of Canada are definitely worth visiting, especially on really cold or rainy days. Both places will give you a view into Canada’s history, diversity, art and culture.

There are also plenty of great little boutiques and restaurants to check out all over the city. Walking or cycling around are great ways to take it all in. You can also walk through Major’s Hill Park. It’s an urban green space located among some of the most notable buildings in Ottawa, including Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, the U.S. Embassy, and the Byward Market. In the spring, it’s the perfect place to check out the Dutch tulips.

And of course, a stop at the Rideau Canal is a must. The canal connects the city of Ottawa to Lake Ontario. On summer days, it’s the perfect place to go biking or sail through it by boat. And what’s really cool is that on winter days, you can go ice skating on it.

Ottawa is a great little day trip from Montreal, any time of year, on weekends or weekdays!

Top 20 best road trips from Montreal

There you have it! 20 amazing places you can get away to on short day trips from Montreal. Of course, there are plenty of other towns to visit, but these are the ones that have the best to offer and explore in a short timeframe.

As a recap, here they are again:

• Ile de Boucherville
• Mont-Saint-Hilaire
• Saint-Jean-sur Richelieu
• South of Montreal
• Oka National Park
• North of Montreal
• Saint-Sauveur
• Mont-Tremblant
• Tour of the Laurentians
• Tour of the Eastern Townships
• Parc régionnal des septs chutes & Chutes à Bull
• Rawdon & Chutes Dorwin
• Chutes de Plaisance
• Val des Monts area
• Tour of Outaouais

Let us know in the comments which of these you’re most excited to visit. Are there other towns or regions that we should add to our list? What are some of your favorite places to explore on day trips from Montreal?

Thank you so much for reading the article all the way through!

We put a lot of time and effort into the content we create. Please like, comment and share – every action on your part helps us out tremendously and is very appreciated.

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You Might Also Like:

The 23 best things to do in the Eastern Townships of Quebec – Your full guide

12 fun things to do in the Saguenay Lac-St-Jean region

Îles de la Madeleine – A full guide about the best things to do in the Magdalen Islands

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Things to Do in Longueuil (Quebec, Canada)

15 Best Things to Do in Longueuil (Quebec, Canada)

A suburb of Montreal, Longueuil is located on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River directly opposite it. It is a commercial, residential and industrial city, as well as being a historic city that dates back to 1657.

Longueuil is home to numerous attractions, although it is often overlooked by travellers. Especially due to its proximity to Montreal. But the city is worth exploring, even just for a day.

Lets explore the best things to do in Longueuil :

1. Spend a day cross-country skiing or hiking

No matter what time of the year it is, head to the massive 1,850,000 square metres Parc Michel-Chartrand.  This is the largest and most popular park in the city; home to three lakes, a marsh, a playground and a lovely garden.

Parc Michel-Chartrand is best known for its 12.5 kilometre long cross-country skiing trail. It also features a sledding slope and an ice rink.

If you are visiting in nicer weather, be sure to enjoy its 10 kilometres of hiking trails. There are also picnic tables and pétanque terrains.

2. Visit a wildlife reserve

Boisé du Tremblay is a wooded area that sits at the very northeast edge of the city. It is an extremely bio-diverse area that has been protected by the Quebec Ministry of Natural Resources and Wildlife.

The 267 hectares area is well worth visiting even if you are not a nature lover. It is home to some interesting wildlife, like the Western chorus frog, as well as a plethora of plant species.

There is a lovely trail that leads through Boisé du Tremblay that allows visitors to see all of its great flora and fauna. The trail is open year round and there is a car park at the start of it.

3. Listen to live music

No visit to Longueuil, or anywhere in its vicinity, is complete without going to the renowned International Percussion Festival. The festival takes place for 6 days every July and features over 500 musicians.

The International Percussion Festival is one of the most notable cultural events in the city, attracting over 200,000 people each year. Musicians from Quebec and other parts of the country takes part in the festival. There are also numerous international musicians that come each year.

Each year the theme at the four stage festival is different. One thing that stays the same is that it is always extremely enjoyable.

4. Visit an island

Charron Island is part of the Îles de Boucherville archipelago; sitting in the St. Lawrence River between Boucherville and Montreal. The island was once the property of French governor René Gaultier, but today it is a green space.

Charron Island is linked to Montreal and Longueuil by the Louis-Hippolyte Lafontaine Bridge-Tunnel. It is also the main access point to the rest of the archipelago.

The island is home to parks and greenery, as well as a lovely beach. The beach is accessible by road or by taking a ferry across the river.

5. Learn about Quebec’s history of great women

Musée De La Femme celebrates the women of the city and the rest of Quebec. It is part of the Women’s Museums Network, which brings awareness to the contribution of women in developing the world.

The museum has both permanent and temporary galleries, both of which displays photos, artwork, newspaper clippings and other memorabilia. There are also lectures and courses offered.

In addition to just strolling through the Musée De La Femme, you can also admire the actual building it is situated in. The building is a bungalow-style house on a quiet street that depicts the past role of women as home makers.

6. Spend an afternoon in a park

There are a few in Longueuil, but one of the most popular parks in the city is Parc de la Cité. This large park sits Saint-Hubert borough and features a lake, a large field and a hill that overlooks the park and the city.

If you are visiting in the summer, you can go cycling, rollerblading or hiking along its eight kilometres of trails. Visit Parc de la Cité in the winter and enjoy ice skating on the lake.

Parc de la Cité also hosts a few events each year, like the Fête nationale and the Lac en fête. It also shows films, holds concerts and has other entertainment that the entire family can enjoy.

7. Gaze at art

Longueuil has quite a present art scene, with more than enough for any art lover to enjoy. For starters, several of the parks and public buildings in the city have sculptures that showcase the work of local artists.

A catalogue of all of the art found around the city in public spaces can be found at the Société historique et culturelle du Marigot. This will makes it super easy to find each piece and to read about it and the artist.

If modern art is your thing, head to Plein Sud, which is a contemporary art and animation centre. The centre inspires young artists to show their creativity using different techniques, then showcases their work in the gallery.

8. Go to the mall

Place Longueuil is one of the largest shopping malls in the city. It sits on Rue Saint-Charles, which is Longueuil’s main commercial centre.

The mall has over 140 shops and services, some of which are known chain stores. These include boutiques like La Vie en Rose, Yves Rocher, Ardéne and Bentley.

If you get hungry while wandering around, there are a plethora of food options, most of which are fast-food. There are also a couple of sit down restaurants if you would prefer to rest and be waited on.

9. Explore the old city

Walk around Old Longueuil and enjoy the numerous historic buildings in the area. There are over 450 buildings in this part of the city, all of which date back to before 1945.

The main street in the area is Rue Saint-Charles, which is lined with boutiques, restaurants and bars. City Hall can also be found in Old Longueuil.

The most notable building in the area is the Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue. This magnificent Gothic Revival church contains the archaeological remains of Fort Longueuil, which extends underneath the church.

10. Be at one with nature

The Gault Nature Reserve is a 1,000 hectare reserve that is operated my McGill University. The reserve is not in Longueil, but in Mont-Saint-Hilare, which is just to the east of the city.

The Gault Nature Reserve is a stunning area that protects the primeval forests and wildlife in the area. It features 25 kilometres of hiking trails, which is the best way to be at one with nature.

The reserve is open 365 days a year for visitors to enjoy. It is also used for teaching and research by the university’s Faculty of Science.

11. Head to Montreal

Anyone staying in Longueuil for any amount of time should definitely make a day trip out to Montreal. It is the second largest city in Canada and boasts a history rich in culture.

Montreal is pegged as the ‘Paris of Canada’ and it is not hard to see why. It is filled with magnificent landmarks, like Bonsecours Market, Notre-Dame Basilica and Château Ramezay.

Montreal is also a great place to go shopping, especially Downtown and in the Quartier Latin-Le Village. It also has a lively nightlife scene, with fabulous trendy bars, lounges and night clubs to enjoy.

12. Pamper yourself

Kick back, relax and have a spa day. There are a number of fantastic spas in Montreal where you can rejuvenate and get completely pampered.

Treatments like massage therapy, floating bath, cosy wraps and scrubs are available at different spas across the city. It is even possible to see an osteopath.

If you really want to spoil yourself, head to the Spa St. James located at the Ritz-Carlton Montreal. You can’t get much better than this award-winning place.

13. Play a round of golf

There are no golf courses in Longueuil itself, but many in neighbouring suburbs. Hire a car and play at round at some of the best clubs in the province.

The Country Club of Montreal is one of the finest and one of the oldest, being established in 1910. It is a private 18-hole course that was recently redesigned by Roy Dye.

La Vallée du Richelieu Golf Club in Sainte-Julie is another noble club nearby. This 18-hole course opened in 1967 and since then has hosted numerous events, like the Canadian Open, the Peter Jackson Classic and the Montreal Championship.

14. Go skiing

Not too far from Longueuil in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville is the Ski Mont Saint-Bruno. This is an alpine ski facility that sits on the slopes of Mont Saint-Bruno.

The hill sits next to a quarry, at 175 metres tall. There are 15 runs, at all different levels, as well as offering night skiing.

Ski Mont Saint-Bruno is home to Canada’s largest ever ski school. There are over 500 ski instructors there every season to teach anyone that may need some help.

15. Walk along Victoria Avenue

This is a major road in the Saint-Lambert area of the city. The road extends from Riverside Drive to neighbouring Brossard.

Victoria Avenue was named after Queen Victoria, who was Canada’s Queen until 1901. There are over 70 businesses lined along the road, many of which are shops.

The section of the street between Riverside Drive and the Saint-Lambert railway station is a well-known shopping strip that is known to locals as ‘Le Village’. The street is also doted with cafés, restaurants and bistros.

15 Best Things to Do in Longueuil (Quebec, Canada):

• Spend a day cross-country skiing or hiking
• Visit a wildlife reserve
• Listen to live music
• Visit an island
• Learn about Quebec’s history of great women
• Spend an afternoon in a park
• Gaze at art
• Go to the mall
• Explore the old city
• Be at one with nature
• Head to Montreal
• Pamper yourself
• Play a round of golf
• Walk along Victoria Avenue

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Boats dock at Montreal's Old Port near the the city's popular Clock Tower.

A Quebec Road Trip: The Scenic Loop Between Montreal and Quebec City

The trip between Montreal and Quebec City can be a quick drive along a highway or a relaxed ramble through historic towns, lush wineries, and quaint shopping districts. You decide.

Montreal and Quebec City are unforgettable destinations, but they definitely aren't all the province has to offer. So take some time to hit the road between the two cities, and explore the slower pace of Quebec's countryside. Along the way you can wander woods, enjoy farm-to-table fare, see old sites of New France, and savor the uniquely Québécois culture.

Cosmopolitan Montreal is a beguiling blend of old and new, where North America's largest concentration of historic buildings rubs shoulders with a towering modern metropolis. And the whole is infused with a diverse cultural mélange that's reflected in its food and art and expressed through the francophone city's unique joie de vivre. (Dive into the international restaurant scene of Montreal or discover the charm of its many urban parks .)

Heading east from the island of Montreal, the A-10 begins to reveal the fertile farmlands of the Richelieu River Valley , which stretches south to the United States border and Lake Champlain. The river spreads out into an attractive basin in Chambly , a commuter town with historic roots. The banks of Chambly Canal National Historic Site are an excellent choice for a stroll. The waterway was completed in 1843 and still lifts boaters through a system of nine locks—though today it's for fun rather than trade. The old stone citadel at Fort Chambly National Historic Site , built in 1711, hosts interpretive programs and provides a glimpse of what life was like for the soldiers of New France.

A river runs through Richelieu River Valley just south of Montreal.

From Chambly the road runs east into an area perfect for foodie exploration. This is Quebec's wine, maple, and apple country—especially delicious for both the eye and palate during fall foliage season. The well-marked Cider Route offers a tour with taste-tempting diversions, including plenty of visits to local producers of regional drink and foods including cheese and honey. Naturally, the Cider Route visits a dozen cideries offering many varieties, alcoholic and nonalcoholic, sparkling and ice. Michel Jodoin is in Rougemont , about 20 minutes down the Cider Route (Rte. 112) from Chambly. It's among the oldest and most famed producers, but Rougemont is home to at least four others.

The Eastern Townships

From Rougemont, the A-10 leads east into Quebec's beloved Eastern Townships (Les Cantons-de-l'Est), a rolling region of farms, forests, and sparkling lakes that's an all-season escape for many citizens of Montreal. The bustling town of Magog , at the north end of Lake Memphrémagog, is about an hour from Rougemont and a great base from which to begin your adventures in the area—or simply enjoy the many outdoor activities that the lake and nearby Parc National du Mont-Orford have to offer.

But before arriving in Magog consider leaving the A-10 in Eastman for a 15-minute detour down Rte. 245 to Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac (St. Benedict Abbey). It’s perched on a spectacular lakeshore site, but the real attraction here is a chance to hear the monks' Gregorian chants, attend a service (plan well in advance), and visit the shop for blocks of the award-winning cheese made on-site. From the abbey, enjoy a 20-minute drive up the lake's west side to reach Magog.

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook is about 40 minutes east of Lake Memphrémagog via Rte. 141. The park is famous for its suspension footbridge—one of the world's longest—that spans the 164-foot deep gorge and definitely isn't an experience for the faint of heart. But the dramatic views here are well worth a few knocking knees, and they might inspire you to further stretch your legs by exploring the park on foot, mountain bike, or horseback.

From the gorge it's about a 70-minute drive east to Parc National du Mont-Mégantic —but that short journey opens a window to an entirely different world. The park is located in the heart of the world's first International Dark Sky Reserve. That means stargazing doesn't get much better than you'll find here, and the AstroLab astronomy center is a fun way to make sense of all the celestial scenery. From its perch near the park's entrance station, AstroLab buzzes day and night with a wide range of exhibits and activities that explore the cosmos.

Chaudière-Appalaches

From Mont-Mégantic, several roads head north toward Quebec City, some three hours’ distance. Those interested in a look below the Earth's surface after all that sky-watching can stop at Thetford Mines Mineralogy and Mining Museum , which documents the local mining industry, explores regional geology, and showcases minerals from around the world.

Snow covers Mont-Mégantic National Park in Quebec, Canada.

Closer to the Quebec City, this trip runs through Beauce, a lovely region of valleys and forests. These maple-rich woods yield almost 20 percent of all the world's syrup production. If you're lucky (or smart) enough to be here in early spring, the region's many sugar shacks come alive with festivities, fun, and foods of every flavor—especially maple.

Before crossing the St. Lawrence River to Quebec City, pause in Lévis on the south shore to linger at the Terrasse de Lévis (Terrace of Lévis). Inaugurated in 1939 by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, this riverside park offers stunning views of the old city across the water and of the powerful river itself, which is especially impressive when it's choked with moving ice.

Quebec City

It's clear from first sight that Quebec City offers a touch of Europe that's distinct on this side of the Atlantic. Dominated by the historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , it's the only existing walled city north of Mexico, and the city's extraordinary people and attractions—as well as its architecture—will tempt you to linger. (See how to spend three excellent days in Quebec City .)

Shops line a block in the Historic District of Old Quebec in Quebec City, Canada.

Montmorency Falls , via Rte. 440 just a few miles northeast of downtown Quebec City, is a cataract of serious size—at 272 feet it's actually higher than Niagara Falls, though its water volume is far lower. If time allows, consider continuing north of Quebec City for an extended trip along the shores of the St. Lawrence. As the great river widens on its journey to the Atlantic, visitors soon find themselves in one of the world's best whale-watching areas. Visit the enchanting, historic communities of Charlevoix , and venture farther along the St. Lawrence by driving the Whale Route .

Chemin du Roy

The route back toward Montreal is, in some ways, also a trip back in time. The Chemin du Roy (King's Road) is one of the oldest highways in North America and opened to traffic in 1737. Much has changed since then, but some things have not, including some of the picturesque homes that line the route and the wonderful views of the St. Lawrence River at lookouts along the shore.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Be sure to pause during your drive along the King's Road and discover photogenic villages like Cap-Sant é (Cape Health), with its ancient church. Farther down the river, Trois-Rivières (Three Rivers), dating back to 1634, is among the oldest towns north of Mexico. The historic quarter here can be explored with guided tours , by foot or bus, that showcase notable homes and deliver visitors to the town's many galleries and museums.

North of Trois-Rivières, the region of Lanaudière offers a nature escape not far from Montreal itself. Hiking, biking, fishing, paddling, and all manner of winter sports are on offer here—as are nature-based retreats for relaxation after all that activity. Leave Rte. 138 in Berthierville and drive some 45 minutes on Rte. 345/348 to Rawdon and La Source Bains Nordiques . This indoor/outdoor spa complex, designed in harmony with its natural surroundings, pampers with pools, tubs, and treatments that can restore weary travelers for the next leg of their journey.

Streetlights shine from the ski resort in Mont Tremblant in Quebec, Canada.

Laurentian Mountains

Finally, head for heart of the Laurentian Mountains. The most famous destination here is Mont-Tremblant , some 75 minutes from Rawdon, with its sprawling ski slopes, sparkling lake, and European-style walking village. (Plan the perfect day in the Laurentians .) But the Laurentians are ripe for much wider exploration. One special way to do so is via the P’tit Train du Nord bike path , which follows the abandoned railway that once helped to develop the charming mountain retreats of the Laurentians by whisking Montrealers north. Mont-Tremblant lies near the route's midpoint, so you can explore the many sights in each direction at a slower pace, pausing to climb mountains, wander charming villages, or enjoy Québécois cuisine at a trailside inn.

When your mountain idyll comes to an end, as all things must, Montreal lies less than two hours’ drive down the A-15 from Mont-Tremblant.

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The ultimate guide to beaches and pools in and around Montréal

Isa Tousignant

Isa Tousignant is a Montréal-based editor and storyteller with a curiosity that runs deeper than most. She has chatted life philosophies with celebrity chefs, gemologists, arena rockers and furries. All were transformative. 

This article was updated on March 29, 2023.

Montréal  summers  are filled with so much fun, dancing, sangria and humidity that it’s no wonder the locals like to flock to the water to cool down and splash around.  Beaches, pools  and lakes abound both in and around the city, and with these come all sorts of organized aquatic fun, like places where you can rent or bring your own SUP, kayak or canoe, and enjoy sailing and water skiing. If you like your summers cool, put these spots on your (ice) bucket list!

Jean-Doré Beach

A golden sandy beach located just minutes away from downtown? Yes! The beach at  Parc Jean-Drapeau   is the perfect playground to build a sand castle, splish-splash around in some water, and then roast in the sun for a couple of hours. Cool off and have fun on the  Parc Aquazilla  obstacle course, with its 30 x 35-metre inflatable structure complete with slides and platforms for jumping into the water (starting June 23). You can also rent canoes, kayaks and pedal boats. Did we mention there’s free Wi-Fi throughout the beach?

Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques

For the adventurous urbanites that feel like making a trek to Montréal’s largest park with a nice sandy beach, make your way to  Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques . It’s a popular spot, so don’t expect to be alone – but it’s a blast. Bring the whole family to this beach less than an hour away from Montréal, where you can rent kayaks, pedal boats and canoes – you can even do archery, experience a forest survival workshop, and try your hand at an obstacle course.

Pointe-Calumet Beach

Pointe-Calumet Beach  has family-fun written all over it, with two trampolines on the lake, inflatable bouncy games for kids, and activities like face painting and treasure hunts most weekends of the summer. Sports lovers can go mellow with pedal boat rides or more serious with kayaking, wakeboarding, waterskiing or beach volleyball. 

Clock Tower Beach at the Old Port of Montréal

Okay, so maybe you can’t swim at  Clock Tower Beach , but it’s a gorgeous urban beach. Right smack bang in the  Old Port of Montréal , this is the city’s quintessential urban beach, complete with soft sand, great beach fare courtesy of the nearby food trucks and a scene that makes people watching so, so fun. There are chairs and parasols that nicely make up for the fact that swimming isn’t allowed. Relax in the sun, have a few drinks, and Instagram some  #MTLmoments  until the sun goes down.

Verdun Beach

Just behind the Verdun Auditorium and Parc Arthur-Therrien, you’ll find the beautiful  Verdun Beach , an urban project that gives locals and visitors a lovely place to hang, chill and bake on either sand or grassy knolls. Swim in a beautiful stretch of the St. Lawrence River, laze in a hammock or get sporty on the slides or climbing wall.

La plage de l’Est

This Pointe-aux-Trembles beach sits at the junction of Rivière des Prairies. Located on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, the Plage de l'Est is the perfect place for canoeing, kayaking or just chilling next to the water with a snack and a good book.

Plage de Saint-Zotique

It may be a 45-minute drive away, but  Plage de Saint-Zotique  is worth it for the great swimming. It’s also a hot spot for water sports rentals, from kayaks to canoes to pedal boats, not to mention the water games, ice cream shop, bike paths, soccer fields and tennis courts. In other words, all-day fun!

RécréoParc , on the South shore of Montréal, is heaven for fun in the sun with beautiful clear water (its quality was recognized by the Ministry of Environment) and a bunch of volleyball courts and play areas. All this, and it’s only 20 minutes from downtown Montréal.

Parc-nature du Bois-de-l’île-Bizard

Away from the noisy radios and the smell of coconut oil, you’ll find this natural haven. After a cooling plunge into the beautiful lake, chill a while on the smooth, sandy  Parc-nature du Bois-de-l’île-Bizard  beach before exploring the nature park’s trails, either by foot or by bike. There are many different types of wildlife (including beavers) to watch. Just remember the old saying: “take only pictures, leave only footprints!”

Parc national d’Oka

Just over an hour away from downtown Montréal,  Parc national d ’ Oka  has a beloved beach where you can rent kayaks, SUPs and even family-sized canoes. You can also rent bikes and explore the extensive bicycle path, 10 km of which is paved.

Beach of the Regional Park of the Saint-Timothée Islands

The golden sand of the  Beach of the Regional Park of the Saint-Timothée Islands  is a great spot to park your party and relax a while, but there are also fun picnic areas for more elaborate get-togethers. You can also rent kayaks and pedal boats, plus there are play structures for the kids and a full-service chalet with snack bar and restrooms.

Aquatic Complex at Parc Jean-Drapeau

If a sandy beach isn’t your cup of iced tea (it really does get everywhere ),  then check out the legendary pool at  Parc Jean-Drapeau . The massive aquatic complex includes a pool with a gradual slope for children, a competition-sized pool and a diving tank. During the summer there are trampolines and water games on the water – sometimes there are even on-site shows!

Piscine Sir-Wilfrid-Laurier

This public pool is amid the urban oasis of Parc Sir-Wilfrid-Laurier , in the heart of the Plateau-Mont-Royal. There’s everything for family and friends to have fun in this park: a soccer field, a baseball field, picnic tables, trees, grass, and other general park things. 

Plage de la Sablière

In sunny Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac, this beach is a great family-friendly option with a smooth, easy descent into the water, perfect for toddlers learning to wade. Plage de la Sablière has a picnic area and beach volleyball.

Want a guaranteed beach party? Beach Club in Pointe-Calumet is the epitome of summer, with a capacity of 10,000 bathing-suit clad spectators for its open-air live music. Watch for your favourite acts and join in the fun – they’ve hosted biggies including Dada Life and Tiesto – and take a load off on the deck chairs or in the pool, drink in hand.

Village des Écluses

Uniting culture, nature and outdoor time, Village des Écluses was a retreat created for Expo 67 on Lac-Saint-Louis that today comprises a beach, an open-air theatre and an outdoor bar. Time your visit with a show, or just go for a stroll along the lighthouse path and a refreshing drink after.

Camping-Plage Kirkland

This Venise-en-Québec getaway is a popular camping ground on the shores of Lake Champlain, but you needn’t stay overnight to enjoy it – you can relax and enjoy yourself on the clean sandy beach, where you can enjoy water sports ranging from fishing to pedal boating and kayaking. Camping-Plage Kirkland has a cantina, a volleyball court and hammocks onsite too.

Rawdon Municipal Beach

Rawdon Municipal Beach is a small but outstanding natural attraction near Montréal. This golden sandy beach on the shores of Lac Rawdon has a natural slope leading to a designated swimming area, overseen by a lifeguard. Feel free to bring your fishing rod!

For a full list of all the city-run pools, check out the  Ville de Montréal website . And for a complete guide to hotel pools,  head here !

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Print Back St. Lawrence Road Trips

In the maritime regions of Québec, ferries serve as extensions of the road network. In addition to allowing you to visit both shores of the St. Lawrence without needing to retrace your steps, they are a novel way to travel and offer unique perspectives on the surrounding scenery and marine mammals.

Four ferries link the north and south shores of the St. Lawrence in Eastern Québec, Canada. These sea routes increase your travel options. Depending on how much time you have, you can choose from the Escapade , Getaway , Discovery or Explorer itinerary. Keep your eyes peeled and you may spot whales or other marine mammals in the majestic St. Lawrence.

Note: All of these routes can be explored in either direction, clockwise or counterclockwise.

Travel Itinerary

110 km (70 mi.) + 65 min by ferry Escapade – 3 days

La Pocatière – Rivière-du-Loup – Saint-Siméon – Tadoussac

The Escapade is ideal if you have relatively little time to spend in Québec. Take advantage of your stay in Bas-Saint-Laurent to discover the talent hidden in the coastal villages in the Kamouraska area . You can also head inland to spend some time in the Témiscouata area .

On foot or by bike, explore the magnificent scenery that surrounds the Petit Témis Interprovincial Linear Park in this beautiful area of Canada.

In Rivière-du-Loup , set off to explore the nearby islands . You can also opt for a whale-watching cruise with Croisières AML  (back in 2024).

While you are crossing the St. Lawrence by ferry from Rivière-du-Loup to Saint-Siméon, keep your eyes peeled and you may spot seals or whales ! Note that reservations are required for groups and buses.

Once in Saint-Siméon, on the north shore of the St. Lawrence, it is worth your while to drive to Tadoussac , which is only 40 kilometres (25 miles) east. Every year, this popular Côte-Nord destination welcomes tourists from all over the world who come to observe the whales , explore the Saguenay Fjord by boat and enjoy the festive atmosphere found in one of Québec’s most beautiful villages.

150 km (95 mi.) + 90 min by ferry Getaway – 4 days

La Pocatière – Trois-Pistoles – Les Escoumins – Tadoussac

In addition to the activities suggested in the Escapade itinerary, here are our further recommendations to add pleasure of your stay in Québec.

While heading towards the ferry in Trois-Pistoles  (reservations recommended in high season), be sure to visit Île Verte (Green Island)—the rural charm of this area will remind you of a bygone era. The island is home to Québec’s oldest lighthouse , built in 1809. If you are interested in historic buildings, stop in the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Church , in Trois-Pistoles, which dominates the landscape for miles. Its composite-style architecture and sumptuous interior make it well worth a visit.

The stretch between Les Escoumins and Tadoussac on the north shore is one of the best areas in the world to observe whales, either during a sea excursion or from land. Visit the interpretation sites of the Saguenay – St. Lawrence Marine Park as well as the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre (CIMM) to learn more about the whales of the St. Lawrence.

Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay  is a great place to visit for fun outdoor activities: hiking, sea kayaking, wildlife observation and more. While in Sacré-Coeur , which is 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Tadoussac, stop in at the Ferme 5 Étoiles holiday resort  where you can enjoy many outdoor activities including sea kayaking on the majestic Saguenay Fjord.

275 km (170 mi.) + 60 min by ferry Discovery – 5 days

La Pocatière – Rimouski – Forestville – Tadoussac

Please note that this ferry is not available this year.

In addition to the activities suggested in the Escapade and Getaway itineraries, here are our further recommendations.

On the way to Rimouski , be sure to visit Parc national du Bic , which borders the St. Lawrence Estuary and boasts magnificent coastal scenery. The park offers a multitude of activities: camping, sea kayaking, seal watching, hiking, cycling, geocaching and more. You can spend a night in a yurt or Huttopia tent, two glamping options that will please those who want a bit more comfort!!

The  Rimouski area also offers attractions for every taste, including the f irst submarine in Canada open to the public at the Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site , Québec’s highest suspension bridge at the Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer (Hell’s Gate Canyon), a treetop adventure park at Domaine Valga and more!!

After spending a few days exploring the south shore, zip across the St. Lawrence to Forestville in only an hour on Québec’s fastest ferry  (reservations required)!

On your way to Les Escoumins on the north shore, you will drive through the municipalities of Portneuf-sur-Mer and Longue-Rive , both of which are popular bird-watching destinations.

525 km (325 mi.) + 2 h by ferry Explorer – 7 days

La Pocatière – Matane – Baie-Comeau/Godbout – Tadoussac

In addition to the activities suggested in the Escapade, Getaway and Discovery itineraries, here are our further recommendations.

Some 40 kilometres (25 miles) east of Rimouski , visit the Reford Gardens , which hosts the International Garden Festival every year. The festival presents contemporary gardens created by architects from all over the world, alongside Elsie Reford’s historic gardens, which showcase about 3000 species and varieties of plants.

Head next to Matane to take the ferry across the St. Lawrence (reservations recommended). Depending on where you want to go and when you need to leave, you have two options : you can head to either Baie-Comeau or Godbout .

On your way to Tadoussac , stop in Pointe-aux-Outardes , which is one of the areas with the warmest swimmable waters in Côte-Nord. This site is also a popular birding destination .

This itinerary is a great way to explore three of the maritime regions of Québec in one trip !

Did you know that Canada is the world’s second largest producer of hydroelectricity? From Baie-Comeau , head north on Route 389 to visit the gigantic Manic-2 and Manic-5 dams . In addition to learning more about this renewable energy source, you will be impressed by the size of these facilities.

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Choosing to settle in Montréal is one of the best moves you could ever make. The only problem is trying to pick a   neig hbourhood when you’ve got so many possibilities!

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Best Restaurants In Montreal's South Shore

If you've been keeping up with my articles, then you know that I don't actually live in Montreal's South Shore. But I have a lot of close family members that do, so for years, I've often ended up spending a good amount of time in Brossard, Longueuil, Boucherville, and a bunch of other surrounding neighbourhoods.

As a result, I'd like to think I'm pretty savvy when it comes to finding awesome restaurants located in the South Shore. Which is super difficult to do, for one very good reason: All the restaurants in the South Shore are so, so amazing. It's very hard to find a spot you don't enjoy, and very easy to find a bunch that you absolutely adore. So, friends, here are a few of the absolute best spots in Montreal's South Shore.

A photo posted by benjamintull (@benjamintull) on Sep 16, 2015 at 7:45pm PDT

1. Primi Piatti

47 Rue Green, Saint-Lambert

Alright, who here loves fresh and delicious Italian food? Everyone? Great, because at Primi Piatti, that's exactly what you're going to get. First of all, the restaurant gives off kind of a classier vibe, which makes it the perfect spot for a date or for a celebration or gathering - and their food? Yeah. Amazing. They offer classic, delicious dishes, such as tortellini with Italian sausage and veal scallopini, so no matter what, you know there's going to be something here to impress even the harshest of critics.

A photo posted by Elizabeth Petel (@elizabethpetel) on Mar 23, 2016 at 10:06am PDT

2. Mitsuki Sushi

8840 Boulevard Leduc, Brossard

All you can eat sushi fans, rejoice. Mitsuki, located in what I truly believe to be the world's best shopping complex (Brossard's Dix30, obvs), is one of the most legit places you can go to get your sushi fix. Every single thing at Mitsuki is fresh and flavourful; and the best part is that it's all you can eat, so you can get yourself as much of their delicious food as you can fit into your stomach.

A photo posted by Carmen (彭慧敏) (@carm3n_p97) on Jul 14, 2015 at 5:17pm PDT

3. Como Pizza

577 Boulevard Taschereau

Truth time: I'm actually obsessed with this South Shore pizza spot. There are a couple of factors that make the pizza here rank among the best - like their dough, which is always cooked to perfection, crispy and golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It makes the perfect bed for their fresh, tasty toppings, always packed on with a few layers of delicious, decadent cheese. I could go on forever about how awesome the pizza is here, but I can't do it justice. You're just going to have to get there and try it out for yourselves.

A photo posted by Nazra (@arzanblogs) on Jul 14, 2015 at 5:40pm PDT

4. Moghel Tandoori

2770 Boul Jacques-Cartier E, Longueuil

This Longueuil spot is pretty much an essential for anyone who enjoys Indian food, whether you live on Montreal's South Shore or not. Moghel offers deliciously fresh, classic Indian fare, such as butter chicken, shrimp tandoori, and mattar paneer; all of their dishes are cooked amazingly well and are bursting with vibrant flavours. Add this in with their warm, friendly vibe, and super fair prices, and you've got a recipe for your next favourite spot, friends.

A photo posted by Sylvie (@sylvieglobetrotteuse) on Dec 28, 2015 at 6:43pm PST

5. Silva Grillades

177 Rue Saint-Charles Ouest, Longueuil

If you love Portuguese food, then you're in luck. This Longueuil Portuguese food spot is seriously mind-blowing. Not only is their food super tasty and super fresh, but their dishes blend traditional Portuguese food with little, awesome twists - like their "Sardinhas" dish (sardines served with Mediterranean salsa), or their Portuguese chicken breast and goat cheese dish. All the yums? You know it.

A photo posted by Daniel Michaud (@danielbmichaud) on Mar 12, 2016 at 8:57am PST

6. Cru Bar A Huitres

585 Av Victoria, Saint-Lambert

Friends, if you love raw food, then you're going to fall in love with Cru. This South Shore spot specializes in serving up the freshest, most tasty raw dishes that you've ever put in your mouth (like their salmon tartare, featuring grilled fennel and Sriracha vinaigrette... but if raw's not your thing, then don't worry. You can enjoy one of their out of this world amazing cooked dishes, too, all in their super welcoming and trendy atmosphere.

A photo posted by benjamintull (@benjamintull) on Jul 10, 2015 at 8:07pm PDT

7. Dur A Cuire

219 Rue Saint-Jean, Longueuil

Honestly, I don't even know where to begin with Dur A Cuire. Every single aspect about this Longueuil French restaurant is seriously on point, from their trendy-yet-casual atmosphere, to their tasty dishes that tend to blend traditional French dishes with more modern twists. A selection of their innovative menu? Butternut squash gnocchi with goat cheese mousse and basil-hazlenut milk.

A photo posted by ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Ⓔ l i e ✧ (@elieduq) on Oct 14, 2015 at 10:24am PDT

8. Le Péché Matinal

337 Rue Saint-Charles Ouest, Longueuil

Breakfast lovers (so everyone, basically), this one's for you. Le Péché Matinal, located in Longueuil, is pretty much one of the best spots in the South Shore to grab an awesome breakfast. Their ingredients are always high quality and super fresh; their dishes always explode with delicious flavours; and their atmosphere is incredibly welcoming and friendly. All in all, if you're looking for an incredible breakfast in the South Shore, stop looking. You found your spot.

A photo posted by Marilou Bélanger (@mariloubelanger) on Dec 17, 2015 at 10:42am PST

9. Restaurant Kiso

265 Boulevard D'Anjou, Châteauguay

Located in Chateauguay, Restaurant Kiso specializes in making some of the most awesome sushi rolls you've ever tasted. Actually, scratch that: Although their rolls are the stuff of legends, featuring fresh ingredients and decadent, amazing flavours, their sashimi is particularly on point. Always fresh and seriously yummy, there's literally no way you can go wrong at this Chateauguay sushi spot.

A photo posted by Little Snow Cheese✨ (@littlesnowcheese) on Apr 8, 2016 at 10:24am PDT

10. Miss Italia

1380 Av Victoria, Greenfield Park

As I'm sure we all know, pizza is bae. And Miss Italia is pretty much the definition of pizza bae, friends. First and foremost, Miss Italia has been in business since the sixties, which in and of itself is a huge testament to how awesome it is - but don't just take that as proof. Their pizzas? Fresh, delicious, and, in short, out of this world. Get there now, friends, and thank me later.

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These 30 montreal restaurants are winning awards (and setting trends) in 2024, 15 montreal restaurants made this year's list of top 100 places to eat in canada, 18 new montreal restaurants that opened in 2023, 10 of the oldest montreal restaurants to get a classic meal, canada's best restaurants were revealed & a quebec spot got 2nd in the country, the 21 best old montreal restaurants for brunch, fine dining & everything in between, 11 montreal restaurants every local needs to visit this spring, 7 new montreal restaurants that you shouldn't miss this year, 9 montreal restaurants that should be on every visitor's list in 2024, these 13 montreal restaurants rank among the healthiest places to eat in canada, 9 montreal cafés that should be on every visitor's list in 2024, air canada named 2 new montreal restaurants among the best in the country.

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Your Montreal

Montreal Residential & Commercial Real Estate

South Shore

The South Shore is a general term for a collection of suburbs of Montreal situated close to the southern shore of the Saint Lawrence River opposite the Island of Montreal. More than 750,000 people live in this large area, with nearly 250,000 of them residing in Longueuil, just opposite downtown Montreal. A particularly popular South Shore neighbourhood among newcomers is Brossard, where more than 23 different ethnicities each represent at least one percent of the population.

The South Shore is well served by transport links to and from the Island of Montreal and the downtown area, with four bridges and a tunnel bringing car traffic across the Saint Lawrence. The Montreal Metro system also extends into Longueuil. Another commuter train takes passengers from downtown Montreal to Saint-Lambert in less than 15 minutes.

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South shore.

Visit South Shore

Where to stay in south shore.

Ville-Marie

Explore cultural gems like Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and Pointe-à-Callière Museum, or stroll through historic Old Montreal and Quartier des Spectacles. Easily accessible via Montreal Metro, enjoy parks like Mount Royal and Parc Jean-Drapeau.

You'll enjoy the monuments and parks in LaSalle. You might want to make time for a stop at Lachine Canal National Historic Site or Saint Lawrence River.

Saint-Hubert

The coffeehouses and lake views are a few reasons travelers visit Saint-Hubert. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Quartier DIX30 and Colisee Jean Beliveau are a few top sights nearby.

Greenfield Park

Greenfield Park is well-liked for its restaurants and shopping. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, St-Lambert Lock and Old Port of Montreal are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

While there might not be top attractions in Normandie, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Canadian Air Force Base Saint Jean and Le Nautique.

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Laflèche and surrounding area, you can visit Old Port of Montreal and Notre Dame Basilica.

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Popular places to visit, bell centre.

Catch an event at Bell Centre during your trip to Montreal. Experience the acclaimed art scene and great live music in this vibrant area.

Old Port of Montreal

Historic architecture, modern attractions and an exciting calendar of festivals make it impossible to get bored at this lively and scenic riverfront space.

McGill University

Enjoy the collegiate vibe with a visit to McGill University, a well-known college in Montreal. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.

Notre Dame Basilica

The incandescent blue and gold interior of Montreal’s spiritual heart dazzles visitors and pilgrims. It was once the largest house of worship in North America.

Circuit Gilles Villeneuve

You can take time to visit Circuit Gilles Villeneuve during your travels to Montreal. Discover the lively festivals and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.

Montreal Biodome

Montreal's “house of life” is a zoo, an aquarium and a nature preserve all under one futuristic glass roof.

Things to do

Montreal: oasis immersion entry ticket.

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Chateauguay

• Places of interest
• Parc Marie-Victorin
• Charron Island Park
• Place Longueuil
• Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park
• Canadian Railway Museum
• Hospital Charles-Le Moyne
• Golf Le Parcours du Cerf
• St-Lambert Lock
• Longueuil Municipal Beach
• Pi-o Centre d'Amusement
• Centre Jacques Cartier
• Parc Michel Chartrand
• Fort Chambly National Historic Site
• Emile Butch Bouchard Arena
• Plaisance Park
• Seaway Park
• Parc de Beaujeu
• Champlain Park
• Sentier du Bocage
• Belle Vue Golf Club
• Cascades Golf
• Église Sainte-Famille
• André J. Côté Park
• Recre-O-Parc
• Duval Auto Sports Complex
• Centre Pluridisciplinaire d'Aviation du Quebec
• Roussillon Archeology Museum
• Charpentier-Chevrier Park

Search places to stay in South Shore Montreal

Find the places to stay that appeal to you the most, featured place to stay destinations, destination inspiration for your trip – find a place to stay, 16 places to stay, 34 places to stay, places to stay in south shore montreal, canada – booking.com, check out our selection of great places to stay in south shore montreal, review score.

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Hôtel-Auberge Objectif Santé

Offering an on-site restaurant, Hôtel Objectif Santé is located in Saint-Hubert. Free WiFi access is available. A desk and a flat-screen cable TV are provided in each room at Objectif Santé Hotel. Air conditioning is also included. Guests can enjoy a garden view from the rooms. As an avid cyclist I like that it’s on bike path and the whole area is bicycle friendly. Fresh air and quiet. Still near enough to services and shopping.

Refuge du Poète

Located in the old town of Longueuil, Le Refuge du Poète offers easy access, by metro or ferry, to downtown Montreal, 9 km away. It has a terrace, as well as charming rooms with toiletries, refrigerator and a free coffee/tea corner. the owner is a lovely nice lady

Hotel Mortagne

Boucherville

This Boucherville hotel offers an on-site restaurant, conference center, sauna and free WiFi. Downtown Montreal is approximately 20 minutes' drive away. Hotel Mortagne offers rooms with a 40-inch flat-screen TV and a coffee maker. Down duvet and pillows are also provided. Everything! Smooth check in, amazing staff and super comfortable beds! The rooms are huge and clean! They even have Nespresso for coffee in room

Motel Saint Bruno

Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville

Situated within 20 km of Montreal Casino and 20 km of Old Port of Montreal, Motel Saint Bruno features rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville. The property is located 21 km from Montreal Convention Centre, 21 km from Notre Dame Basilica Montreal and 21 km from University of Quebec in Montreal UQAM. The property is non-smoking and is set 21 km from La Ronde Amusement Park. The motel is very clean and it was recently renovated. The rooms look great.

FREE PARKING PRIME LOCATION NEW MODERN CONDO

Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, FREE PARKING PRIME LOCATION NEW MODERN CONDO is located in Brossard. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi. The property is non-smoking and is set 12 km from Old Port of Montreal. The property is amazing. Just like the pictures. Very clean, nice finish, full kitchen. The area is amazing, and the host is very nice. I definitely recommend it.

Lovely studio in Longueuil, near Downtown Montreal

Lovely studio in Longueuil, near Downtown Montreal is located in Longueuil, 6.1 km from University of Quebec in Montreal UQAM, 6.2 km from Berri Uqam Metro Station, and 6.5 km from Place des Arts. It is situated 5.8 km from La Ronde Amusement Park and features a lift. Free WiFi is available throughout the property and Montreal Casino is 4.6 km away. excellent location if you are in montreal for osheaga; everything was nice & clean; the apartment has everything you may need

the house for the memory

Sainte-Catherine

Set in Sainte-Catherine and only 20 km from Bell Centre, the house for the memory offers accommodation with garden views, free WiFi and free private parking. This recently renovated villa is located 20 km from Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and 20 km from Ogilvy. The property is non-smoking and is situated 20 km from Underground City. Very peaceful. Couldn’t hear the traffic even though busy road right there. Close to a lot of good restaurants

Three bedroom holiday apartment

Located 3.8 km from La Ronde Amusement Park, Apartment Rue Labelle is situated in Longueuil. The air-conditioned unit is 3.7 km from Gilles Villeneuve Racing track, and guests benefit from free WiFi and private parking available on site. Good wifi, close to bus, air conditioning

Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, Le Milka I is situated in Longueuil. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi. On clear days, guests can head outside to enjoy the holiday home's outdoor fireplace or simply kick back and relax. Very spacious, very comfortable beds and bed linens

Sandman Hotel Montreal - Longueuil

With easy access to local motorways, the Montreal-Longueuil Sandman Hotel is only a short drive from city centre attractions, including Old Montreal. The Longueuil Metro Station is also adjacent to the hotel and makes exploring the surrounding area easy. Our room was very spacious, clean and bed was comfortable.

Most booked places to stay in South Shore Montreal this month

Hotel brossard, place to stay in brossard.

Popular with guests booking places to stay in South Shore Montreal

Le Dauphin Montréal-Longueuil

Place to stay in longueuil, hôtel welcominns.

Place to Stay in Boucherville

Best Western Hotel Brossard

Hôtel alt quartier dix30, faqs about places to stay in south shore montreal, does booking.com offer places to stay with free cancellation in south shore montreal.

Most places to stay on Booking.com offer free cancellation.

What are some of the best places to stay to stay at in South Shore Montreal?

Hôtel Escad Quartier DIX30 , Atelier Galerie Anne Drouin Peinture & Pension , and Gorgeous 5 Bedroom House are some of the popular places to stay in South Shore Montreal.

In addition to these places to stay, Cozy townhouse 3 beds! , QUIET Appartment near Montreal CITQ 3O9764 , and Well Equipped Studio FOR NON-SMOKING GUESTS ONLY CITQ ЗO9467 are also popular in South Shore Montreal.

How much is a place to stay in South Shore Montreal for this weekend?

The average price per night for a place to stay in South Shore Montreal for this weekend is $137, based on current Booking.com prices.

Why should I book a place to stay with Booking.com?

We make it quick and easy to book a place to stay in South Shore Montreal. Here’s what we offer:

• Free cancellation on most stays • We Price Match • 24/7 customer support in 40+ languages

Which places to stay in South Shore Montreal are good for families?

Many families visiting South Shore Montreal loved staying at QUIET Appartment near Montreal CITQ 3O9764 , Atelier Galerie Anne Drouin Peinture & Pension , and Gorgeous 5 Bedroom House .

Similarly, Lovely studio in Longueuil, near Downtown Montreal , Cozy townhouse 3 beds! , and L'Auberge du QG are also popular among families.

How many places to stay in South Shore Montreal are listed on Booking.com?

There are 64 places to stay in South Shore Montreal you can book on Booking.com.

Which places to stay in South Shore Montreal are good for couples?

Couples traveling in South Shore Montreal loved staying at Gorgeous 5 Bedroom House , Well Equipped Studio FOR NON-SMOKING GUESTS ONLY CITQ ЗO9467 , and FREE PARKING PRIME LOCATION NEW MODERN CONDO .

Similarly, these places to stay in South Shore Montreal were also highly rated by couples: Atelier Galerie Anne Drouin Peinture & Pension , QUIET Appartment near Montreal CITQ 3O9764 , and Hôtel Escad Quartier DIX30 .

Which places to stay in South Shore Montreal have nice views?

Atelier Galerie Anne Drouin Peinture & Pension , Hôtel Escad Quartier DIX30 , and Le Milka II have received great reviews from guests in South Shore Montreal about the views from these places to stay

Guests staying in South Shore Montreal also loved the views from these places to stay: Hôtel Alt Quartier DIX30 , Martine & Michel , and Three bedroom holiday apartment .

Places to Stay that guests love in South Shore Montreal

7.9 Good 1,868 reviews

The room view and cleanliness. The delicious steak dinner!! Great location.

Holiday Inn Montreal Longueuil, an IHG Hotel

8.0 Very Good 1,074 reviews

The location was awesome and the room was very clean. The beds were comfortable and I found the room spacious.

Motel R-100

5.7 Review score 682 reviews

Like the price and location beside the airport

Big, clean rooms and beds. The location and the view of the river. The food at the restaurant was delicious, and service was impeccable.

Comfy matress Location /subway

Motel Champlain

7.7 Good 230 reviews

I liked how clean the room was and the location was ideal for me becuase it was in between the places I had to visit. The room also had a microwave and a mini bar fridge as well wich was nice.

8.3 Very Good 3,462 reviews

Very smart, clean and modern hotel - highly recommend this location, very convenient drive into downtown Montreal, quick Uber too, will definitely book there again.

Very nice hotel esthetically. Perfect location to enter downtown Montreal. But that is about it.

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Nova Scotia’s South Shore

We’re that special stretch along Canada’s Ocean Playground where every turn in the road leads to a new adventure.

Where rugged Atlantic shores lead to serene seas. Where history abounds and whispers your name. Where days of forested hikes give way to campfire nights. Where the doors in quaint village shops open to world class artisans, and local food & drink perfectly pair with the memories you make.

Where discovery and rediscovery will lead you back again and again. Nova Scotia’s South Shore – where good times are a SHORE thing! View our accommodations availability calendar to find the perfect place to stay.

Always in Season

Packages & Experiences

There are so many things to see and do here on Nova Scotia’s South Shore – so many flavours to savour, so many sights to see, so many stores to shop so many galleries to explore, so many… well you get it. The list is endless and while we’re certain you could compile your own incredible itineraries we’re thrilled to present these truly pleasing packages and excellent experiences to get you started.

Lobster Crawl

Just in case you haven’t heard – we’ll proudly tell you we’re a four-season destination here on Nova Scotia’s South Shore – spring, summer, fall and LOBSTER!!! And since February just happens to be the peak of the lobster season along the entire South Shore, so from Barrington (the Lobster Capital of Canada) to Peggy’s Cove and every port in between – you can expect all kinds of celebrations in salute to that ever so yummy crustacean.

Stories to Inspire

Discover Unforgettable Adventures this Autumn at Kejimkujik National Park Seaside!

As the summer sun gently transitions to the warm hues of fall, an extraordinary opportunity awaits at Kejimkujik National Park [...]

Top 7 Iconic Landmarks

We’ll admit we’ve never done the math on the number of marvellous things there are to see and experience here [...]

South Shore “ACTION”

We get plenty of “ACTION” here on the South Shore. Now we don’t want to brag or anything but we’ve [...]

South Shore To-Do's

Showcase market more on the shore.

We're so excited to announce a brand new initiative. One that encapsulates so much of what makes Nova Scotia's South Shore such an amazing corner of the planet. It's called Nova Scotia’s South Shore Showcase Market and features a stellar selection of vendors along with our terrific team of tourism partners and MORE! [...]

Soak in Our Beaches

Just like the license plate says – Nova Scotia is Canada’s Ocean Playground – a title most deserving especially when you have a look at the lovely beaches here on the South Shore. From soft sandy strips to those strewn with sea tumbled stones, from secluded coves where the Atlantic blue gently laps the shore to those who host wide open expanses with waves for days [...]

Climb Castle Rock

If you’re coming to our corner of the planet you really need to put “Climb Castle Rock” on your MUST DO list. With 360 degree views of Nova Scotia’s South Shore we can guarantee the sights are so worth the hike all year long. [...]

• peggy'scove
• Cox Warehouse

hang a'round with us, things will warm up

two feet and a thumbs up from me

head over heels for South Shore beaches

somewhere out there

a paddling we shall go

go climb a tree

shell'ebrate good times

my happy place

a quiet moment

a quiet walk

a picturesque paddle

paddling is fun with friends

don't axe any questions

I'll take the bow!

come on in, the water's great

I dream of a sailor's life

out for a paddle

foot prints and paw prints in the sand

red sky at night

I can SEA from here

it's over here

SEA you when you get here.

stand up for good times

wait while I take a selfie

where did everyone go?

the tides come and they go

star light star bright

hazy summer sunshine

dip your toes in

ready set go

don't wait for me

we'll wave when you get here

you'll always be my best friend

tall tales were told

see you on the mat

we rocked our visit!

where the green ferns blow

a deep discussion

let's stir things up

a paddling parade

let's go for a swim

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Waterfalls near Montreal for day trips and weekend getaway destinations

If you need great, wow-me reasons to get out of the city, these waterfalls near Montreal are worth the trip.

UPDATE, summer 2023:  Travel outside Montreal and you'll find some of the most picture-perfect waterfalls around. Whether you're looking for calm, peaceful swimming holes or raging, breathtaking natural wonders, this list has it all.

Refreshing to visit in the spring, cool hangouts in the summer, picturesque and colourful in the fall and frozen marvels in the winter, these waterfalls near Montreal are beautiful spots to check out no matter the time of year. They're great places to take a day trip from Montreal , and are often situated in national parks and deep countryside forests where you can find some of the best hiking near Montreal  and some amazing places to go camping near Montreal as well. Pack a meal and go for a stroll in the woods, following the sound of rushing water until you arrive at one of these beauties.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal

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Waterfalls near Montreal to discover with roadtrips out of town

Chute de la Rivière St-Louis

Travel time from Montreal:  45 minutes

If you want to keep your trip out of Montreal short but still want to see some waterfalls, the small and scenic waterfall by Beauharnois—just off the island—is your best bet. Sit and idle calmly by the water during your trip, and there's the option of mixing things up by taking to some of the 10 kilometers of marked trails in the 125 acres of the nearby Robert Woods. It's particularly good for winter trips, when all those trails get padded down for cross-country skiing.

Les Chutes de Roxton Falls

Travel time from Montreal: 1 hour 30 minutes

One of the more relaxing, towny type of experiences comes from visiting Roxton Falls, a major historical spot for the nearby town. It's one of those places you want to go for a relaxing small town experience, pack a lunch and while away the afternoon as you watch the water go by and tumble a total of 9 metres. There's also a bunch of cycling trails nearby if you want to stay active during your visit.

Chutes Dorwin

Travel time from Montreal:  1 hour 30 minutes

The nearby town of Rawdon is particularly proud of this nearby natural attraction, and they're right. Who wouldn't want some magnificent 60-foot-high falls surrounded by century-old pine forests near your town? Ones that can be reached via 2.5km of ecological trails in said forests? If you're finding it a bit crowded for your tastes, there's also the nearby Cascades Park where the falls are slower and spread out over plateaus you can hang out on.

Parc de la Rivière Doncaster

Travel time from Montreal:  1 hour 45 minutes

In recent years, the municipality of Sainte-Adèle has found one too many flooding (no pun intended) into their town for this spot that, at its peak, can see as many as 1,000 people in a day during the summer. But that's during the summer, and as good as it is to lounge here when it's hot out, the spring and fall seasons are calmer and more easy-going. It's a beautiful area, especially when the trees surrounding the river start turning colours in the fall.

Parc Regional des Sept-Chutes

Travel time from Montreal:  2 hours 15 minutes

Like the name implies, there's a total of seven (7!) waterfalls to hunt down across this Quebec park as you hike or bike its trails. The one you'll want to find by following the park's maps is the Veil of the Bride, a 60-metre (200 feet) tall waterfall before catching your breath at Guy Lake below it. After that, try reaching the summit of Mont Brassard and Mont Barrière.

Parc national du Mont-Tremblant

At 125 years old, this national park in Quebec sits pretty at 1510 square kilometers big. That means there's a LOT of trails and general ground to cover, but you're here to see water fall off of something, right? At Mont-Tremblant, there's a total of four waterfalls to see: Chute du-Diable, Chutes-Croches, Chute-aux-Rats (17 metres high!) and the scenic Chute-aux-Mûres with its footbridge to take some romantic selfies at.

Parc des Chutes Monte-à-Peine-et-des-Dalles

Travel time from Montreal:  2 hours

Located at the centre of three towns—Sainte-Béatrix, Saint-Jean-de-Matha and Sainte-Mélanie—the ones you want to hunt down are the Chutes Monte-à-Peine, Chutes des Dalles and Chutes des Desjardins. These feed into a total of 5km of riverways in the area, but among exploring the rushing water of each, Sainte-Béatrix beats them all out for its canyon to feel the mist of the waterfall falling into it.

Parc régional des Chutes-à-Bull

Travel time from Montreal:  2 hours 5 minutes

At 20 metres high, the Chutes-à-Bull is the star attraction of this park that falls into a shallow body of water folks like to pose at and cool off in during summers. Whether you head directly there upon arrival or you want to make your way there over 6km of hiking trails, follow the path from the falls that leads along the Boule River, where you'll find smaller and more soothing falls afterwards.

Parc des Chutes de Sainte-Ursule

Falling from a height of  30 metres at its greatest height (some say 70, so you be the judge), the Chutes de Sainte-Ursule is a towering body of water that can be viewed from a lot of different viewpoints on the area's hiking trails. That's the main attraction, however. This is also the site of where the Maskinongé River splits into seven different waterfalls, some of which get topped with footbridge you can walk out over and just stay a while and let your thoughts drift away.

Chutes de Shawinigan

Travel time from Montreal: 2 hours 20 minutes

The best time to visit the Shawinigan Falls are in the late spring, when the Saint-Maurice River rises and begins to fall in full force. That's normally the time when townspeople know that spring has arrived, and a siren sounds off when the floodgates open and a massive amount of water is let loose for a tumbling 42 meters—that's almost as high as Niagara Falls. If you won't (or can't) get too close, there are two observation points to use to take in the scenery. 

Plaisance Falls

At its highest point, the water of the Rivière Saint-Sixte falls a total of 63 metres down, it's one of the larger waterfalls close to Montreal that merits a visit. It's not hard to get to either, as the hiking trails leading to the observation points to see it in action are either at the beginner or intermediate level—that might not interest hardcore hikers, but the view should: It's simply spectacular.

Chute Waber

Travel time from Montreal: 3 hours

Located inside the parc national de la Mauricie, Waber Falls is a supremely popular spot for Montrealers and Quebeckers in general to travel to. That's likely because while it's not some scenic raging beast of water, the shape of Waber Falls does let the water form a natural splash pad of sorts—you won't believe how many people have taken group photos of themselves getting drenched. In other seasons, however, it's just as scenic and much more free of Instagrammers.

Chutes de la Chaudière

Travel time from Montreal:  3 hours 15 minutes

View these crashing beauties from one of three vantage points: A footbridge suspended at 23 meters just above the water, the 35-metre high observation point to take in the fall as well as the horizon below, or directly in the mists of the falls' landing point. To really make a trip out of visiting this waterfall, plan for a full day of hiking and canoeing; the park itself is absolutely full of beautiful scenery to explore.

Parc de la Chute-Montmorency

Travel time from Montreal:  3 hours

This one probably seems like a no-brainer for in-the-know Quebeckers, but the Montmorency Falls truly are one of the most beautiful waterfalls within reach of Montreal. Whether it's seen from the observation deck at its lowest level's plunge pool or from the suspended bridge above its overhang, this 83-metre high waterfall that's 30 metres higher than Niagara Falls) is impressive no matter which way you look at it. 

Chute Ouiatchouan

Travel time from Montreal: 5  hours

Here's where the Ouiatchouan River tumbles down 72 meters (236 feet) over a rockface by an old pulp mill that dates back to 1901. There are five viewpoints with stairs and trails to reach the top of the falls, but there's also a cable car you can shell out for (which includes access to the museum inside the mill). The view from the top here is the real prize, though: At the top there's a glass platform over the falls, so acrophobics should probably just stay down low and enjoy the (also) beautiful view from where the water crashes down.

Parc des Chutes Coulonge

Travel time from Montreal:  4 hours

If visiting a waterfall for scenery and a chance to hike isn't enough for you, then Coulonge is one of your better bets with its zip lines, obstacle courses, and via ferrata climbing courses that are available until November 1st each year. That's the 'adventure park' side of it, but the waterfall itself it beautiful in the warmer season for a refreshing visit, and still beautiful to see in the winter when the bridge running above it is illuminated.

Canyon Sainte-Anne

Travel time from Montreal:  4 hours

While the canyon been carved down over eons by the Sainte-Anne-du-Nord River, the waterfalls of the area persist, falling a total of 74 metres into the canyon. If you don't want to risk climbing down to get up close and personal, there are three suspension footbridges that cross the canyon, with one being risen as high as 60 metres. Yes, it's far from Montreal, but it's worth it. There's a ton of activities to do as well if the weather's right.

Luskville Falls

Travel time from Montreal: 3  hours

Located on the western side of Gatineau Par (something to explore in its own right), Luskville is just purely picture-perfect. There's no huge, crashing scene to check out here, but a calm and soothing place to sit and take in the scenery below you. Just follow the signs for the Eardley Escarpment and you'll find yourself 300 metres above sea level after a steep hike. The view's worth it, though.

Chute Hélène (ZEC Cap-Chat)

Travel time from Montreal: 8.5  hours

Admittedly far from Montreal, the Hélène Falls found near Rivière-Bonjour, Quebec in the Réserve faunique de Matane of the Chics Chocs region is an exceptional destination for both hunting and fishing (that's the ZEC aspect, a 'zone d'exploitation contrôlée' or controlled harvesting zone in public lands), moose sightings (there are over 4,000 in this area alone), and the falls: Take the 8.2-kilometre back trail named after the waterfall and arrive at a marvel of the International Appalachian Trail. The hike here is commonly deemed a 'moderate' challenge, so don't just wear flip-flops.

Chute-du-Ruisseau-Blanc

Travel time from Montreal:  5 hours

A 45 metre-high waterfall found inside the Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, think of Chute-du-Ruisseau-Blanc as a small and precious gift that comes from a small hike among all the other wonders of the main park. That said, the waterfall isn't likely to be the main attraction of your visit to this part of Quebec with its misty valleys and gorgeous views, but Chute-du-Ruisseau-Blanc still feels like a treasure when you arrive at it.

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3 of the best places south of Boston where walking is great and views are beautiful

When you're ready to spend a few hours or more walking outdoors and enjoying the scenery, it helps to be able to have a hassle-free start.

Gail McGrath, of Pembroke, has a few tips. She looks for parks or conservation areas that are free to enter, easy to access and have enough parking.

McGrath, a retired teacher, is a leader with the nonprofit organization Nordic Walking United . She's grew up in Quincy and has seen what the South Shore has to offer in local walking and hiking trails with some good views.

"There are so many beautiful places to walk on the South Shore," she said.

Here are three of the best South Shore places that offer trails for walking and beautiful views.

Blue Hills Reservation, Quincy, Milton, Randolph  

Over 7,000 acres and 125 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding from Quincy to Dedham, Milton to Randolph. Houghton's Pond for swimming and fishing. Department of Conservation and Recreation. You get both big and more focused views. Great Blue Hill, at 635 feet, is the highest of the 22 hills in the Blue Hills chain. 695 Hillside St. 617-698-1802.

World's End, Hingham

251 acres on a peninsula bordered by the Weir River and Hingham Harbor. Trek along Frederick Law Olmsted-designed carriage paths over rolling hills and rocky shorelines, and discover sweeping views of the Boston skyline. At the end of Martin's Lane in Hingham. 781-740-7233.

Webb Memorial State Park, Weymouth  

Easy walking trails with scenic views of Boston's harbor and skyline on a grassy peninsula between Weymouth’s Back and Fore rivers extending half a mile into Hingham Bay. This state park is the only mainland portion of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. 361 River St. 781-337-8264. Great Esker Park is also nearby.