Get Outdoors: 5 Spots to Take It Easy This Summer

1. Picnic in Îles-de-Boucherville National Park – Montérégie

Located just a few minutes outside of Montréal, the Îles-de-Boucherville National Park has everything you’ll need to forget about the city. Made up of 5 small islands, you can discover streams teeming with life from a kayak or just stroll along the paths bordering the St. Lawrence River. After spending all your energy, enjoy a break and a delicious picnic in a relaxing rest area.

 

 

2. Relax at the Sibéria Station Spa – Québec City

If you’d rather go for absolute relaxation, you should head for the Sibéria Spa. Far from the noise, in the middle of the forest, this is the ideal place to connect with nature. The thermotherapy will make your stress melt away and regenerate you in an enchanting setting.

 

 

3. Sleep in a mini-chalet – Charlevoix

Repère Boréal has three mini-cottages surrounded by nature in the gorgeous Charlevoix region. In the heart of the boreal forest, let yourself be charmed by these simple, minimalistic Scandinavian-inspired chalets. With access to hot baths and saunas, you’ll have everything you’ll need to unwind. If you choose the Maikan chalet, a panoramic window will let you gaze and the stars. This is truly a cozy place to completely get away for two days (or even three!).

 

 

4. Try out a house in a tree – Eastern Townships

When was the last time you experienced something completely new? It’s time to try out a treehouse! The open-air Au Diable Vert center, only an hour and half from Montréal and Sherbrooke, lets you have a unique experience in nature. Located at an elevation of about 1,000 feet, this majestic area is famous for its spectacular sunrises over the Missisquoi River valley. From your home in the treetops, a coffee in hand, you can take in the unforgettable views.

 

 

5. A camping weekend – Mauricie

Right next door to Trois-Rivières, and only 2 hours from Montréal and Québec City, the La Mauricie National Park is a perfect spot for a weekend in nature. The park is nestled in the Laurentides mountain chain and let you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes, either on a hike or while taking a refreshing dip in a waterfall. And finally, nothing could be more relaxing than finishing off your day around a campfire! If you don’t have any camping equipment, think about booking an oTENTik tent, something between a prospector’s tent and a mini-chalet.

 

 

Don’t wait for the stress of the city to take over your life. Plan out a few hours or even a full weekend in nature, so you can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the unique spots that Québec has to boast.