Things To Do
Sucrerie de la Montagne
Experience a Quebec cabane à sucre (sugar shack). For anyone looking to taste authentic Canadian maple syrup and to discover how it's produced, the magic starts here. While la cabane à sucre festivities is a spring tradition for Quebecers, Sucrerie de la Montagne remains open all year long. Caroline and Patrick love to stop by this location as a rest stop through the nature trails in Rigaud. Their favorite menu options include maple beer, pancakes & maple syrup, sugar pie, and maple taffy on snow. It is recommended to call in advance to book a reservation and take full advantage of their menu during the off season.
The Mount Royal Lookout
This is a Montreal must-do for anyone travelling from out of town! Montreal was named for this hilly highland, where the tallest spot in the city overlooks its most extensive parkland. Walk up Mount Royal through trails and nature walks that cater to every season and level of athlete. Once you make it to the top, you will be welcomed by the gorgeous skyline of our city. Patrick and Caroline love to grab a matcha (ask for it sweetened with maple syrup!) at cafe Leaves House on Rue de la Montagne right before their promenade.
St-Viateur Bagel
Montreal bagels are notably some of the best bagels in the world! St-Viateur Bagel is a Montreal landmark, alongside its friendly competitor Fairmont Bagels. Enjoy these fresh, mouthwatering bagels over breakfast and coffee.
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Something you may not know about Caroline and Patrick: They love strolling through art galleries and museums together. Enjoy the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts' permanent collections (free of charge) on Quebec and Canadian heritage, Indigenous art and international art from a progressive and innovative perspective. The MMFA comprises close to 47,000 paintings, sculptures, graphic artworks, photographs, multimedia installations and decorative art objects dating from antiquity to the present.
Café Olimpico
This family run coffee shop is a longtime hangout for Italian espresso drinks, pastries & gelato in a cozy, traditional setting. A must-try: Caffe crema and bomboloni!
Bota Bota
Moored at the Old Port, the Bota Bota spa-sur-l’eau is a spa on water. Enjoy the view of Montreal's historical Old Port while taking in a moment of calm.
Schwartz's Deli
A Montreal landmark that has welcomed countless celebrities and visitors from all over the world for almost a century, Schwartz’s Deli has been serving the world’s best smoked meat since 1928. Its trademark simplistic and communal style has been a haven for locals and tourists alike.
Hiking in Mont-Saint-Hilaire
Caroline and Patrick have hiked the trails of Mont-Saint-Hilaire's Gault Nature Reserve every summer since they've met. Note that travelling to this Reserve will require a car, however it is a wonderful way to see more of the beautiful Quebec countryside.
Ecomuseum Zoo
The Ecomuseum Zoo is the only outdoor zoo on the island of Montreal! It showcases Quebec's wildlife in a natural setting, where every detail is considered for the well-being of the animals. Make sure to go early in the morning or right before closing for a higher chance of seeing the black bear, coyote and red fox! This is the perfect activity to also enjoy with kids.
Fugazzi Pizza
Fugazzi Pizza is Caroline and Patrick's favorite pizza joint! Their favorite pizza on the menu is Wu Tang Killa Bees. If you're looking for a taste of Montreal nightlife, check out Milky Way Bar right above the restaurant.
La Bullerie
Enjoy a delightful wine tasting and picnic at La Bullerie! Taste local Quebec wines on their beautiful outdoor terrace with a breathtaking view of St-Joseph-du-lac as well as a marquee among the vines. Their vast and splendid property in nature promises you memorable moments with your loved ones.