The best weekend getaway near Montreal is in the Eastern Townships, a 1.5-hour drive away: waterfront villages, vineyards, mountains, and lodging deep in the forest. Close enough to leave on Friday after work, far enough away that your cell phone ceases to exist.
Why the Eastern Townships Are Better Than Other Options
The Laurentians are beautiful but crowded; Charlevoix is magnificent but a 4-hour drive away; and Quebec City is a city, not a getaway. The Eastern Townships offer the best value in Quebec: a 90-minute drive to lakes, a wine route, villages like North Hatley, and a real forest where you can stay the night. You’ll spend less time on the highway and more time relaxing by the fire.
A typical getaway, Friday through Sunday
Friday: Leave after work, arrive around 6:30 p.m., settle in, campfire, starry sky. Saturday: Coffee outdoors, morning walk in the forest, afternoon in the village of North Hatley—one of the most beautiful in Quebec, on the shores of Lake Massawippi—dinner at a BBQ or one of the excellent local restaurants, evening by the fire. Sunday: a leisurely wake-up, a swim or some reading, departure at 11 a.m. with no traffic. Two nights—and it feels like you’ve been away for a week.
Where to stay: In the forest, everything is ready
At Station Chêne Rouge, in the hills above North Hatley, you’ll sleep in a mini cabin, a pod, or a safari tent, nestled in the heart of 35 acres of private forest. Bedding is provided, a campfire area is set up, firewood is included, Nespresso coffee is available, and a heated saltwater pool and 4 km of trails are included. Heating is included in the units. Your dog can travel with you at no extra charge. Over 1,200 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 stars all say the same thing: just bring a bag and a cooler—we’ll take care of the rest.
Things to Do in the Area
The pier and shops in North Hatley are 10 minutes away, the Wine Route is 30 minutes away, the Cantons’ bike paths, Massawippi Lake Beach, and the cheese farms in Compton. The complete guide to activities is here. Or nothing at all: that’s part of what it means to unwind.
When to Visit
The season runs from May through October. June is best for lush greenery and tranquility; July and August are ideal for swimming; and from mid-September through mid-October, you’ll enjoy the spectacular fall colors—the best time of year to visit. Fall weekends fill up quickly, so be sure to book a few weeks in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a 1.5-hour drive on Highway 10 toward Sherbrooke, taking the North Hatley exit. Station Chêne Rouge is also 15 minutes from Sherbrooke.
Prices vary by property and season. Weekend packages for 2 or 3 nights are the most popular options; all rates are displayed when you book online.
Yes, anywhere on the property, free of charge. A maximum of two pets per reservation; they must be kept on a leash while on the property.
For weekends in July and August and during fall foliage season, book 3 to 6 weeks in advance. On weekdays, a few days’ notice is sufficient.
Your weekend starts Friday at 6:30 p.m.
Pick your weekend while rooms are still available—everything else is already set. View availability and packages.
