This text is part of the special Plaisirs booklet
In a week, it will be Christmas. We will then have a few days off and we will certainly want to take the opportunity to get some fresh air, body and soul, while waiting for the new year. What to do as a couple? Where to go with the family? What activities to indulge in solo? Here, the ideas …
Like a big
Before or after a skating session on the refrigerated ice ring of the Old Port, head to the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours chapel to hear the last free Christmas concerts of the Choralies. Saturday afternoon, we’ll be all ears for Jazz pop and high heels ; Sunday for Christmas organs and santons. No reservation is necessary.
Are you interested in traditions, legends and decorations that contribute to the magic of Christmas? Tours Kaléidoscope has concocted three walking tours in downtown and in Old Montreal on these themes. Two 90-minute circuits and another of 2.5 hours are offered until December 30.
In the “I sweat with joy” category, the Cité thermale Förena, located in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, leaves no one frozen. In fact, between two dips, you can take part in meditation and sensory stretching sessions, as well as the German Aufguss ritual. Guided by a master of thermotherapy, it leads to a state of total relaxation in the sauna.
To sit down at a restaurant solo during the holidays, it certainly requires “winning conditions”. In Chinatown, the new chic Italian-Japanese Tiramisu table brings together two: counters and long tables promoting conviviality and a warm welcome. Tiramisu meaning roughly “cheer me up” in Italian, that couldn’t be more appropriate!
On the evening of the 31st, we will rather blend in with the crowd of revelers at Time Out Market. On the program, a New Year’s Eve including a festive atmosphere thanks to a musical host, a choice of dishes and a midnight toast – or not, since families are also invited to an alcohol-free section.
Arm in arm, arm in arm, we …
… will see Suspension, at the Maison de la culture du Plateau-Mont-Royal. Multidisciplinary artist Jennifer Alleyn promises us an immersive sensory experience through her photographs, videos and installations. Until January 30, 2022.
… ski! Head to Saint-Ferréol-des-Neiges, where we will settle in at Auberge et Campagne, a new unpretentious establishment located near Mont Sainte-Anne. “I imagine our visitors so comfortable that they go downstairs to have their coffee in their pajamas in the common room! »Says co-owner Patrice Drouin, mountain biking pioneer in Quebec.
… take advantage of the après-ski to be completely charming on the occasion of the English tea served by the StoneHaven mansion. Located in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, the manor has just obtained its affiliation with the Relais & Châteaux family. Recently renovated, the prestigious establishment showcases an early 20th century decoration and layout.e century.
… can take one of the cooking or wine appreciation classes offered by Ateliers & Saveurs, but you can decide quickly, because places are flying like hot cakes! Available in Montreal and Quebec.
With the kids
On the side of Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard, we learn to ski Hok (snowshoeing) at the Mont Avalanche sports resort where we head off on the slopes. “This small family mountain is a well-kept secret in the Laurentians: thanks to a microclimate, the conditions are always good,” says Catherine Simard, owner of Auberge Les Conifères. To prolong the pleasure of the getaway, stay with her and taste her organic scones by the fireplace.
Walking alpacas, let’s face it, it’s not trivial! The gentle “giant poodles” of Domaine Poissant, in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, ask nothing better than to stretch their paws along the beautifully decorated trail for the Holidays.
How about stepping into a Christmas storybook? This is what the Sherbrooke History Museum offers, where short stories, photographs, games and tales bring festive traditions to life. Falala, a very nice fox, and his companion Belzy, a funny little elf, guide the children through the exhibition Christmas stories (s). At nightfall, you can also take part in the multimedia activity at Jacques-Cartier Park. Sparks, signed Moment Factory. Entrance is free, but you have to reserve your place.