Winter Adventures in Québec: Montréal, Mont-Tremblant, Québec City & Mauricie - 11 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Montréal, Explore Canada's Second-Largest City

Welcome to Montréal, Canada's second-largest city! Upon arrival, pick up a rental car to start your self-drive adventure. Make your way to the hotel, where you can check in and refresh, then venture out to explore the area on your own. A good place to start is Old Montréal, the city's historic district. Wander down the cobblestone streets lined with charming historic buildings, vibrant cafés, and lively street performers when it's not too cold. Stop at the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal to admire the Gothic Revival architecture.

Then, step inside to see the intricate wood carvings, vibrant stained glass windows, and colossal pipe organ. Continue to Place Jacques-Cartier, where the focal point is the imposing Nelson's Column, built to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson's victory over the French in the Battle of Trafalgar. End the night with a ride on La Grande Roue de Montréal, Canada's largest observation wheel, set on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Each pod is climate-controlled, so you'll be kept warm as you take in panoramic views of the cityscape and tranquil water below.

Day 2: Enjoy a Free Morning in Montréal, Tour the Jean-Talon Market 

Spend another day exploring Montréal at your own pace. If you're looking for an active adventure, you could trek up Mount Royal. There are plenty of trails depending on your skill level, but the hike to the summit typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. Enjoy panoramic views of the city's skyline and the St. Lawrence River from the top. To warm up, head to Space for Life, a museum complex that includes a biodome, insectarium, botanical garden, and planetarium, offering a comprehensive journey through different ecosystems, from the ocean's depths to the vastness of outer space.

After exploring the museums, you'll join a guided tour of the Jean-Talon Market, one of North America's largest open-air public markets, open year-round. Browse the stalls full of farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheese, delectable pastries, and seasonal delicacies. Beyond its gastronomic delights, the market also serves as a cultural hub, hosting live music performances, cooking demonstrations, and community events throughout the year. When you're done in the market, explore the surrounding Little Italy neighborhood and sample local specialties to end the night.

Day 3: Drive to Mont-Tremblant, Explore at Leisure

Say goodbye to Montréal this morning as you set off on a 1.5-hour drive to Mont-Tremblant, a charming ski and resort town in the Laurentian Mountains. As you drive, watch the landscape transition from bustling urban streets to rolling hills and dense forests. If you want to stop anywhere, the charming Ville Saint-Sauveur is a good option. Stroll down the picturesque streets, where you can shop for souvenirs, sample local delights, or partake in outdoor adventures like ziplining or hiking.

Back in the car, complete the drive to your hotel to freshen up, then enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You could stay in the town itself, as it offers a thriving shopping, dining, and bar scene, or venture into the backcountry to hike, snowshoe, ride a snowmobile, or even go dogsledding. Even though you didn't hit the slopes today, end the night with après-ski activities to unwind. Relax by a cozy fireplace, sip hot chocolate or mulled wine, and enjoy live music and entertainment in the village.

Day 4: Ski Day in Mont-Tremblant, Scandinave Spa Afternoon

Start your morning off right by hitting the slopes of Mont-Tremblant. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are trails and runs suited to every skill level. You could even book on-site ski lessons to learn the basics or improve your technique. Take the ski lift to the top of your chosen run and set off down the mountain. When you're done, warm up in one of the cozy chalets with a hot chocolate and a hearty meal.

After a day on the slopes, unwind at Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant, nestled in the Laurentian Forest. If you're feeling adventurous, try one of the refreshing cold plunges before dipping into the hot baths. Relax in the wood-fired saunas or book a therapeutic massage to remove your knots. In the evening, return to the village and choose from an array of cozy cafés, casual eateries, and fine-dining restaurants for dinner. 

Day 5: Spend Another Day Skiing in Mont-Tremblant

Enjoy another day of skiing down the slopes of Mont-Tremblant. If you're experienced, you can try the more challenging black diamond trails with their steep pitches, moguls, and occasional obstacles. But first, enjoy sweeping views of Lake Tremblant and the surrounding Laurentian landscape from the summit. Then, set off down the mountain and conquer the challenging runs. When you reach the bottom, celebrate your accomplishment with a drink in one of the cozy chalets overlooking the slopes you just conquered.

Day 6: Drive to Québec City, Visit Montmorency Falls, Explore Old Québec

This morning, trade the slopes of Mont Tremblant for the bustling streets of Québec's capital, Québec City. Jump in the car and start the four-hour journey, passing through Montréal and driving along Autoroute 40. Stop en route to visit the popular town of Trois-Rivières, which has an array of eateries, museums, and attractions like the Forges du Saint-Maurice, the first iron mine and refinery in North America. Before checking into your hotel, drive to Montmorency Falls, just 10 minutes outside the city. 

There are many ways to see the falls, from hiking to different viewpoints, taking a cable car to the top, or crossing a suspension bridge with the roaring water below you. No matter which vantage point you see the falls from, you're sure to be impressed by the 272-foot-tall (83 m) cascade. If it's cold enough, the falls may even freeze partially or entirely. After admiring the natural wonder, return to the city to discover the UNESCO-listed Old Québec. Wander past landmarks like the iconic Château Frontenac, a grand hotel perched atop the city's cliffs, or Place Royale, where Québec City was officially founded.

Day 7: Visit the Hôtel de Glace & the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec

Wear your warmest clothes this morning as you head to the Hôtel de Glace, the only ice hotel in North America. It's open from January to March and is made entirely of ice and snow. Step inside to see the shimmering ice sculptures, intricate ice carvings, and crystalline corridors. Admire the ice chandelier in the grand foyer, then wander through the elaborately themed suites. Unwind with a cocktail at the ice bar, or take a whirl on the ice slide to end the self-guided hotel tour. 

Continue to the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec next to browse the extensive fine arts collection from the 17th century to the present. Look out at the masterpieces from Québécois artists alongside works by renowned Canadian and international creators. Browse permanent exhibitions focusing on art in the early French colonies to contemporary works. Don't miss the Brousseau Collection of Inuit Art, one of the museum's highlights.

Day 8: Dogsledding in the Countryside, Explore the Quartier Petit Champlain

Get ready for what's sure to be a highlight of the trip—dogsledding across Québec's snow-covered countryside. Meet the dogs and your guide, also known as a musher, who'll explain how to drive and steer your sled on the well-groomed forest trails. When ready, step aboard and lead your dogs into the forest. Don't be nervous about having control; a guide will always be nearby if you need help. As you navigate the trails, look out at the pristine winter landscape stretching out before you. Afterward, head back to the lodge to warm up with a drink and snack.

If you're lucky, you'll be able to visit the kennels for some quality time with the dogs before returning to your hotel. Those who want to explore more can wander through the Quartier Petit Champlain, a charming neighborhood that blends history, culture, and artisanal charm. Pop in and out of the quaint boutiques, cozy cafés, and art galleries to look for unique artwork or souvenirs. End the night with a Canadian classic that originated in Québec—poutine—a simple dish of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Day 9: Drive to Mauricie, Cross-Country Skiing in La Mauricie National Park

This morning, you drive four hours to your final destination, Mauricie, a region of lush forests, winding rivers, and pristine lakes that beckons outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Break up the drive with a stop in Shawinigan, a charming city on the Saint-Maurice River, to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. Back in the car, head straight to La Mauricie National Park, a haven for wildlife, including black bears, moose, wolves, beavers, and 193 species of birds.

There's plenty to do here, but cross-country skiing is the most popular activity, as there are 53 miles (85 km) of trails that lead to scenic viewpoints. Strap on your skis and set off down the well-maintained trails through the forest and along the shores of frozen lakes. There are a variety of trails to choose from, including gentle loops for beginners and more challenging routes that will satisfy seasoned skiers. When you're ready, head to your hotel to check in and warm up. 

Day 10: Winter Activities in La Mauricie National Park

Experience a proper Québec winter today by taking advantage of all the snow-related activities in La Mauricie National Park. Spend some time at hubs like the Auberge du Lac-à-l'Eau-Claire, which has skating rinks and ski and snowboarding trails. You can also strap on your snowshoes to explore networks of remote trails through forests glittering with snow and ice. Anglers will love the chance to go ice fishing, or you can get your blood pumping on a snowmobile tour.

Day 11: Drive to Montréal, Depart

Bid farewell to the national park this morning as you drive four hours back to Montréal for your flight home. If you have time, stop in Trois-Rivières again for a break and a bite. Try one last poutine, this time topped with smoked meat or sausage, or sample a pouding chômeur, a traditional Québécois dessert made with moist cake smothered in a rich maple syrup sauce. From there, it's another 1.5 hours to the airport, where you'll drop off your rental car in time for your flight home. Safe travels!