This text is part of the special book Plaisirs
The terraces which make it possible to reconcile with the cold season are multiplying. Warming up with the children at the table in front of a hot chocolate, having a drink around the fire with friends or even enjoying a gourmet meal one-on-one in a heated dome: never have we embraced our northernness as much as in this post-pandemic era. The proof with five out-of-the-ordinary experiences tailor-made for those who are not shy.
1. Democratize winter
The large family terrace of the Jardin de La Pépinière presents itself as a new kind of gathering place in the heart of Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, in Montreal. This winter, we are also testing the potential of Montréal’s nordicity by exploring a variety of activities and, above all, facilities intended to encourage us to make the most of the cold season. Examples ? Outdoor fires, of course, but also ingenious heated benches and windproof walls, not to mention a warming menu, including classic soups, grilled cheese sandwiches and other hot chocolates. 3081 Ontario Street East, Montreal.
2. Have a beer in a sauna
A real curiosity, the sauna recently installed on the four-season terrace of the Chelsea pub in Outaouais has nothing to do with those found at the neighboring Nordik Spa-Nature. Don’t show up in a bathing suit! Maintained at pleasant temperatures – from 15 to 20 degrees –, the place is rather designed to accommodate small groups of two to four people, a glass in hand. All the same, it’s perfect for warming up in good company! 238 Old Chelsea Road, Chelsea.
3. Taste winter gastronomy
The ultimate stay in the Old Capital, the Under the Stars package at Auberge Saint-Antoine not only includes accommodation in a luxurious suite, but also (and above all!) a four-course meal served in a glass-enclosed mini greenhouse and heated, installed on the bedroom balcony. Well sheltered from the wind and cold, you will have plenty of time to admire the view during the day and enjoy the night sky after sunset. Five stars ! 8, rue Saint-Antoine, Quebec.
4. Sip a cocktail in the snow
In addition to its very popular heated domes that overlook Old Montreal from the terrace of 8e floor, the boutique hotel William Gray has a lovely winter garden on the ground floor. This real little winter paradise is adjacent to the living room — the Living Room — and allows you to have an aperitif around an outdoor fireplace in a warm, very “after-ski” atmosphere. No reservation required. 421 Saint-Vincent Street, Montreal.
5. Take advantage of the lights on Laval
With the objective of offering unusual winter experiences to its clientele, the Centropolis once again installed its starry terrace this winter on its pedestrian promenade. The concept ? Three translucent bubbles that can be reserved for a meal. This is a great way to bring the central square of the Centropolis to life even below zero! Only problem: the tables installed in the said bubbles are so popular that everything is already full until the end of the season, March 5th. 1799, avenue Pierre-Péladeau, Laval.
This special content was produced by the Special Publications team of the Duty, relating to marketing. The drafting of Duty did not take part.