How to Plan a Weekend Trip to the Laurentians from Montréal

A relaxing nature escape less than 1–2 hours away.

The Laurentians (Les Laurentides) are one of Québec’s most beloved weekend getaway destinations — known for their mountains, lakes, charming villages, spas, and outdoor activities year-round. Whether you’re going for nature, food, romance, relaxation, skiing, or small-town exploring, the region is easy to reach and offers something for every travel style.

This guide will help you plan the perfect 2- or 3-day weekend trip from Montréal.

How to Get There from Montréal

Transportation Option Travel Time Best For Notes
Car 1–2 hours Flexibility Easiest way to explore multiple villages & lakes
Galland Bus (to Mont-Tremblant / St-Jérôme) ~1h45–2h45 No car travelers Book ahead during weekends
Bike + P’tit Train du Nord Trail Varies Cyclists Scenic long-distance bike route
Taxi / Rideshare Pricey Short stays Best for Saint-Sauveur / Sainte-Adèle distances

Most travelers choose car for convenience (Autoroute 15 North).

Choose Your Home Base (Depending on Your Vibe)

Town Atmosphere Why Choose It Best For
Mont-Tremblant Lively, tourist-friendly Skiing, village nightlife, spas, lakes Couples & active travelers
Saint-Sauveur Authentic village Shopping, cafés, easy hikes Foodies, casual adventurers
Sainte-Adèle / Sainte-Agathe Calm & scenic Lakeside chalets, quiet trails Relaxation & nature
Mont-Blanc / Val-David Artistic & outdoorsy Art studios, family-friendly hikes Nature lovers & young families

What to Do (Depending on the Season)

Summer & Fall

  • Hiking – Easy scenic viewpoints (e.g., La Corniche, Mont Saint-Sauveur summit)

  • Lakes – Paddleboarding, canoeing, or swimming on Lac Tremblant

  • Cycling – The P’tit Train du Nord trail is famous and mostly flat

  • Fall colors – The Laurentians are one of the best foliage regions in Canada

Winter

  • Skiing / Snowboarding – Mont-Tremblant & Saint-Sauveur

  • Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing – Parc National du Mont-Tremblant

  • Spas – Nordic spa experiences like Scandinave Tremblant

Sample 2-Day Weekend Itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival + Village Exploring

Morning (Leave Montréal)

  • Drive or take the bus north toward your chosen village.

Afternoon

  • Walk the village center (Tremblant, Saint-Sauveur, or Val-David)

  • Coffee stop at a café

  • Check in to your hotel, inn, or chalet

Evening

  • Relaxed dinner — try:

    • Mont-Tremblant: La Savoie (fondue) or Le QG (local bistro)

    • Saint-Sauveur: Lola 45 or Bistro A Vino

  • Unwind in the chalet, by a fireplace, or visit a cozy bar

Day 2 — Outdoors + Food + Spa

Morning

  • Easy scenic hike:

    • La Corniche (Tremblant National Park)

    • Mont Saint-Sauveur lookout

    • Sentier des Cimes canopy walk (Mont-Blanc)

Lunch

  • Choose a lakeside terrace or grab a picnic from a local market.

Afternoon

  • Relax at a Nordic spa (Scandinave Tremblant, Polar Bear’s Club, or Bagni)

  • Explore shops or artisan studios

Evening

  • Village dinner + wine OR cook at your chalet

  • Optional: sunset viewpoint or lakeside stroll

Where to Stay (By Style)

Style Options Notes
Chic Resort Fairmont Tremblant, Sommet Saint-Sauveur Walkable access to activities
Lakeside Chalet Airbnb, Chalets au Lac Taureau, private rentals Ideal for groups & couples
Cozy B&B Sainte-Adèle & Val-David inns Local charm + home-style breakfast

Packing Checklist

  • Comfortable shoes

  • Refillable water bottle

  • Layers (mountain weather changes quickly!)

  • Swimsuit (for lakes or spas)

  • Camera / phone charger

Local Traveler Tips

  • Peak foliage is usually late September to mid-October.

  • Weekends get busy — book accommodations & spas ahead.

  • Many restaurants in small towns book early — reserve dinner if possible.

  • If you prefer quiet, stay outside Tremblant Village but visit during the day.

Sources & References

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