The arrival of spring heralds the start of road-trip and nature-hike season. From time to time, we’ll leave Montreal’s soft spring sidewalks for the sandy beaches (icy) and the salty breeze (warm) of the ocean, which isn’t that far away…
After a few hours’ drive from Montreal, we reach a small coastal town in the United States. It’s 4 hours and 43 minutes from downtown – enough time to listen to Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon five times or 4 times the playlist for the Jean-Marc Vallée: Mixtape exhibition (on view until early May at the Phi Center).
Fine sand, fresh seafood and the lively atmosphere of the quayside, it’s like a mini-vacation!
…it’s in Newburyport, MA
It’s in Essex County, Massachusetts, and Newburyport is a popular tourist destination for its picturesque beaches, rich maritime heritage and charming streets.
The historic streets, markets and ocean views make for a small-town charm that makes you want to put on boat shoes without socks and buy a coffee in the corner where matchas might be served (we’re used, in Montreal, to the best takeaway coffees).
The beach
Once here, we plan to head to Plum Island Beach or Sandy Point State Reservation to enjoy the soft sand and refreshing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Water sports enthusiasts will enjoy surfing and paddleboarding, while the more adventurous among us will discover underwater treasures during diving sessions.
For those who need a bit of culture as well as the beach, we can visit the Museum of Old Newbury to delve into the history of the region, and those who can’t stand still for 5 minutes can go biking along the trails of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, between dunes and marshes.
The city
For a more urban experience, stroll through downtown Newburyport and discover its charming boutiques, local art galleries and renowned restaurants.
Eat at the Brine Oyster Bar or the Black Cow Tap & Grill, where the flavours of the sea blend perfectly with local produce.