Winter will be long and hostile, and we recommend that Montrealers (old and new) make the most of the region, its orange fields and forests in the mild autumn weather, as long as it’s not too cold to do so…
Montreal is one of those cities where you can live without ever spending more than a few hours in your apartment.
But, sometimes, you need to get away from the noise of the city (the construction) and the cracked asphalt on which your shoes click, and get your feet into the fallen leaves.
We’re lucky enough to live in a region of diverse landscapes and little treasures of beauty known only to people who grew up here.
We have 6 little-known places close to Montreal to fall in love with the colors and magic of autumn.
1.ascent to the Montagne Noire summit at Saint-Donat
Montagne Noire, Saint-Donat’s highest point, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The memorial to the crash of a Canadian military aircraft in 1943 is a place steeped in history.
You can walk hand in hand to admire these spectacular views, which give a special meaning to the beauty of autumn.
Where? 135 Chemin Régimbald, St-Donat-de-Montcalm (2h30 drive from downtown Montreal)
2.stroll through Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook
The famous footbridge at Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook is often in the spotlight, but in autumn it takes on a special charm.
It’s a gentle stroll past a covered bridge, circular barn, flower garden, waterfalls and observation tower.
Where? 400 rue St-Marc, Coaticook (2 hrs. 10 min. drive from downtown Montreal)
3 Enchanted Weekend at Le Baluchon – Eco-villégiature
Le Baluchon is much more than an inn, it’s a haven of peace for couples – or singles who want to treat themselves to a day at the spa.
You can go for a walk, go horseback riding, take the perfect color photo… Hiking trails surround the establishment, offering the chance to recharge your batteries in the midst of nature.
Spa packages start at $360 per person, but we deserve it, don’t we?
Where? 3550 Chemin des Trembles, Saint-Paulin (2h20 drive from downtown Montreal)
4. peaceful retreat at Auberge du Portage, Notre-Dame-du-Portage
Perched on the shores of the St. Lawrence, Auberge du Portage is a refuge almost out of time – and with zero construction noise.
You can relax in the spa overlooking the river, and bask in the last warm rays of sunshine before winter.
It’s also a health center: yoga, anti-stress treatments… Health packages also start at $360, but then again, the city is stressful.
We’re going fast, because the season ends on October 26, 2025 this year.
Where? 671 Rte du Fleuve, Notre-Dame-du-Portage (4h30 drive from downtown Montreal)
5 Eardley Escarpment in Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park offers spectacular fall-colored trails.
Stop off at the Champlain lookout to admire the Eardley Escarpment, a natural boundary between the Canadian Shield and the St. Lawrence Lowlands, offering a plant diversity unique in the world.
Where? Pontiac (2 hrs. 40 min. drive from downtown Montreal)
6 Discovering Armagh Falls Park
In addition to a long hike through the trees, you can admire a canyon and the waterfall from a footbridge suspended above the river.
A sensational experience for nature lovers.
Where? 305 route 281 south, Armagh (3h30 drive from downtown Montreal)
Enjoy the ride!