The “micro-adventure”—a concept popularized by British adventurer Alastair Humphreys—boils down to one idea: adventure doesn’t have to be far away, long, or expensive. A night spent outdoors less than two hours from home counts just as much. It’s the hottest trend in Quebec’s outdoor scene: short nature getaways close to home are booming. Here’s the Eastern Townships version, just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Montreal, at Station Chêne Rouge in North Hatley.
The Concept: The 5 to 9 Adventure
Humphreys calls it “the adventure between 5 p.m. and 9 a.m.”: leaving after work, sleeping outdoors, and coming back the next day. No expedition logistics, no need to take time off. On Friday evening, you leave Montreal at 5 p.m.; by 6:30 p.m., the fire is lit and the workweek is already a distant memory.
A microadventure without the discomfort
The “ready-to-camp” package removes the equipment barrier that stops most people: the bed is made, firewood is provided, and heating is included. Our packing list fits into a single bag. Andthe 48-hour itinerary in North Hatley turns a night outdoors into a full weekend when the mood strikes.
Practice is the secret
A micro-adventure is great; one a month is a whole new life. That’s exactly what the country club membership makes possible: free Dayclub access for day trips, 30% off weeknight stays, and flexible check-in and check-out times for stays starting at 5 p.m. See the membership page for details. Chêne Rouge Resort, North Hatley: 4.9 out of 5 based on over 1,200 reviews.
A concept by Alastair Humphreys: a short, local, and simple adventure—like spending a night in nature less than two hours from home, without the logistics of an expedition.
In the Eastern Townships, at Station Chêne Rouge in North Hatley: a 1.5-hour drive away, in the woods, fully equipped accommodations.
You'll need to bring almost nothing for your camping trip: food, a cooler, warm clothes, and a headlamp. The bed, firewood, and heating are provided.
Yes: that's the whole point of a microadventure. A night outdoors resets your sleep cycle and breaks up the week.
