10 Best Road Trips From Montreal Updated 2022
The road trip is one of the best ways to unwind, recharge and see what lies ahead—and it’s also a way to learn more about yourself.
Hey, if you’re ready to start planning your next road trip (whether it’s across the USA or around the world) then check out these updated, 10 best road trips from Montreal!
There are some new and some old routes listed here—so let the brainstorming begin!
In this article, we have collected the 10 best road trips from Montreal for your reference. If you love exploring new places and traveling, this is the article for you.
10 Canadian Road Trips You Need to Take at Least Once
Vancouver to Tofino, British Columbia
Even if you live on the other side of the nation, this Canadian road trip is worth the journey. To go about, you may always take a vehicle rental from Vancouver International Airport.
For an unforgettable scenic journey through ancient temperate rainforests with stunning vistas of mountain ranges, lakes, and the shoreline, take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo and then the Pacific Rim Highway (BC Highway 4).
If you’re not careful, you can miss a mother bear and her cubs as they cross a creek.
Old Country Market is a great place to pick up some locally created gifts and see the market’s famous Goats on the Roof; Cathedral Grove, a collection of gigantic Douglas fir trees—some of them 800 years old—is another must-see along the road.
For a more laid-back feel and bigger waves than Tofino, Ucluelet is the place to go before you get to the Canadian surfing mecca. The Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino, a Relais & Chateaux-accredited inn, is your home base for surfing the world-famous Chesterman Beach in Tofino. Additionally, there are whale-watching cruises, storm-watching in the winter, fishing, and hiking in the area.
Calgary to Lake Louise, Alberta
According to Debbie Monahan, regional director for Carlson Wagonlit Go in Montreal, it takes four days to travel from Calgary to Lake Louise.
One of the first things to do is to take a city tour of Calgary, which includes visits to the famed Calgary Stampede and the 1988 Olympic Park. Before you go, brush up on your knowledge of the Calgary Stampede.
For day two: “Rent a car, pack a picnic, and head early the next morning for Lake Louise, stopping at the Columbia Icefield for a brief snowmobile tour on the way.” The best time to visit Lake Louise is in the late afternoon or early evening, when the lake’s crystal-clear waters are at their most magnificent. Monahan adds, “If you want to see the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets, choose a lakefront hotel.”.
On the third day, plan to get up early and see Lake Louise before traveling to Sulphur Mountain and Banff Springs. If you’re going to the hot springs, you’ll want to carry your swimming suit and ride the gondola all the way up the mountain. A ghost tour of the Fairmont Banff Springs is a must for a memorable evening, according to Monahan. Check out our list of the finest things to do in Banff.)
Before returning to Calgary on Day 4, Monahan recommends “do some more sightseeing near Banff Springs.” Using this list of the greatest things to do in Calgary once you get back home might help you plan your trip.
The Cabot Trail, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
Try the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island, recently voted the best island vacation in the United States and Canada by Travel + Leisure magazine.
Imagine breathtaking cliffs and beaches, as well as the welcoming spirit of the Maritimes. That’s what you get when you visit the region. Enjoy water sports like swimming and hiking as well as fishing and kayaking. You may even go scuba diving. (If you’re looking for the top beaches in Canada, check out this list.) Make arrangements at the Cabot Links, Canada’s first real “links” golf course, before heading to one of the island’s top-notch golf courses.
Eastern Townships, Quebec
Drive 75 minutes east of Montreal to Manoir Hovey, a Relais & Chateaux-listed property in North Hatley. The author of Frommer’s Montreal & Quebec City, 22nd Edition, Patricia Gajo, took the trip with her partner and strongly recommends it.
“Manoir Hovey is without a doubt the most luxurious Eastern Townships vacation spot for couples.” As Gajo adds, “You name it: Jacuzzi with a view of the water, Champagne, gourmet resto. Many small stands selling locally grown produce including maize, raspberries, apples, etc. could be seen along the path. I also picked up a bottle of pure Vermont maple syrup.”
The Benedictine Abbey of St-Benoît-du-Lac is another must-see in this picture-perfect location, which Gajo compares to Tuscany because of the area’s undulating meadows and orchards. You can go apple-picking at their orchard in the fall, and I’d want to go back.” I got a brick of their famed bleu cheese, which they also manufacture. The Gregorian chants may also be heard at specific periods of the day, explains Gajo.
Stratford, Ontario
Historic downtown, destination inns, and a riverside picnic area make Stratford a terrific day trip or weekend vacation from Toronto or London, Ontario. Stratford’s celebrated theatrical festival is presently closed to the public because of COVID-19. One tank of petrol can take you to some of the best day excursions from Toronto, Canada.
Claudia Viani, Director of Leisure and Local Business at Carlson Wagonlit Travel, located in London, believes that the Stratford Festival is a must-see for theatre buffs, but the town itself is worth a visit in and of itself. Make sure you’re hungry. Restaurants, wine bars, coffee shops, chocolate shops, as well as ice cream parlours can be found throughout the town of Stratford-upon-Avon,” explains Viani.
The Sea to Sky Highway, Squamish to Whistler, British Columbia
Media relations coordinator for Tourism Whistler Mary Zinck says she has driven the Sea to Sky Highway daily for the past 12 years and it still takes her breath away.
From Vancouver, it’s about a two-hour journey along the Sea to Sky Highway (BC Highway 99) with a never-ending panorama of the Coast Mountains and Howe Sound. ” One of the most stunning drives in North America may be found on this stretch of road. To honor the area’s Indigenous heritage, the roadway was renamed “The Cultural Journey” in 2010.
Stopping at the many pullouts is a necessity as you weave your way north between mountains and the coast. “Information kiosks are strategically positioned at culturally significant landmarks along the route to take advantage of the stunning scenery,” explains Zinck.
Shannon Falls, The Watershed Grill, and the Tantalus Range Lookout are all good places to stop along the way for a bite to eat and some fresh air.
A Foodie Tour Through Kelowna, British Columbia
Kelowna, a ski resort town nestled in the Okanagan Valley’s orchards and wineries, has recently gained a reputation as a culinary mecca.
Want to spend a day shopping and dining at the best of the best? Many of Kelowna’s best farm-gate discoveries may be found on our Farm to Table self-guided tour. According to Catherine Frechette, Tourism Kelowna’s tour guide guru, “people want to meet intriguing, creative residents” who are committed to farming.
We recommend spending time in South East Kelowna, where you can sample Tantalus Vineyards’ world-renowned Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, visit Arlo’s Honey Farm, stock up on Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm’s lavender jelly and bath oil, and meet the goats at Carmelis Goat Cheese artisan farm/fromagerie/boutique and choose from 20 different kinds of handmade goat cheese.
The entire excursion might be completed in roughly four to six hours. The Wild Apple Restaurant, Cabana Grille, or Sunset Organic Bistro (the Summerhill Pyramid Winery’s restaurant) are all great places to grab a bite to eat in Kelowna’s farm-to-table program,” adds Frechette.
Great Canadian Road Trips: Pelee Island, Ontario
Laura Mousseau, public relations manager for the Wildlife Conservancy of Canada, says a journey to the country’s southernmost populated point is ideal for birders and nature enthusiasts.
When it comes to Lake Erie, “Pelee Island is a magnificent paradise with friendly people and breathtaking vistas along its shore and stunning woods, marshes, and prairies in its interior,” Mousseau notes. In the spring, summer, and fall, travelers may drive aboard the ferry in Leamington or Kingsville, depending on the season, and drive off at Pelee Island, where they can see rare ecosystems and excellent cultural treasures.
Listed below are some worthwhile stops to make along the way:
The Heritage Center on Pelee Island
Winery on Pelee Island
The Florian Diamante Nature Reserve of the Nature Conservancy of Canada
Lighthouse Point and Fish Point are both provincial nature preserves.
The Bird Observatory on Pelee Island
As a stopping place for migrating birds and butterflies in spring and fall, Pelee Island is a must-see, says Mousseau.
Natural marvels in Canada should not be overlooked.
Edmonton via Jasper or Calgary via Banff
There are so many things to see and do in these parts of Alberta that we’re giving two options!
In his book, Zombie Night in Canada, author Jamie Friesen takes a more flexible approach to the Canadian area. From either Edmonton or Calgary, you may travel to the nearest mountain park: Jasper National Park or Banff National Park.
One of Canada’s best road journeys (seen here at Bow Lake) takes you to the first of two UNESCO World Heritage parks replete with breathtaking views and fauna, and the other Rocky Mountain park offers further natural treasures like waterfalls, glaciers, and gorgeous lakes.
After a few more hours of traveling across a beautiful prairie environment, you’ll arrive at the next large city. (These are some of Canada’s most stunning waterfalls.)
This trip may take anywhere from two to seven days to complete, according to Friesen, who recommends allowing plenty of time to stop and take in the views along the route.
Consider these fantastic day excursions from Calgary when you’ve finished your visit.
Cruise the Chatham-Kent Corridor, Ontario
Yes, Chatham-Kent, I’m talking to you! Although it’s not a household name, this historic and gorgeous region, which spans Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair, and the Thames River, is working hard to become a popular motorcycle-touring location.
The Highway 3 “Cruise the Coast” motorbike route, which begins at Port Dover, is a scenic, postcard-perfect ride (home to thousands-strong biker rallies every Friday the 13th).
During the War of 1812, British and First Nations loyalists were pursued by American soldiers along the Thames River as they fled. Come see where former slaves battled their way to freedom by visiting the famous Underground Railroad. An important black community was established in the Chatham-Kent area of Canada. Many picnic and hiking opportunities may be found along this route thanks to Rondeau and Wheatley provincial parks.
The Gaspesie Tour (Le Tour de la Gaspésie)
From the province’s largest cities to its easternmost point, the Gaspesie Tour is a lengthier road excursion.
Going east, you’ll pass through a number of Quebec’s most popular tourist destinations as you travel along the St. Lawrence River.
The Eastern Townships and Quebec’s wine regions are included in this Gaspesie road trip. After that, you’ll travel through charming coastline towns like Rivière-du-Loup and Rimouski as well as more rural areas.
On the Gaspe Peninsula, one of National Geographic Traveler’s Canada’s 50 Places of a Lifetime, you’ll finally come face-to-face with the Atlantic Ocean.
While you’re there, make sure to check out Percé Rock and take advantage of all the activities available to you in the great outdoors.
Montreal or Quebec City are good starting points.
One thousand and twenty-five miles
Approximately 7 to 10 days.
Reford Gardens, Exploramer, Bonaventure Island, and Gaspesie and Percé Rock provincial parks, Chic-Chocs Mountain Lodge are among the must-see attractions on this Quebec itinerary.
The New France Route (Route de la Nouvelle-France)
In the New France Route, you’ll get a chance to see some of Quebec’s first inhabitants’ artifacts in action. Québec City and the St. Lawrence shore at Côte-de-Beaupré were historically connected by this supply route.
You’ll pass through small towns lined with historic homes and churches, see the farmland that maintained them, and learn about the area’s history at a number of museums along the way.
Quebec City is the starting point.
The route is 56 kilometers long.
About one day.
Visit the Domaine de Maizerets, Maison Girardin, Montmorency Falls Park, Auberge Baker, and the Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area, all of which are must-sees on the itinerary.
The Fjord Route (Route du Fjord)
Fjords do not just exist in Europe. The Saguenay Fjord, one of the world’s longest and ringed by 300-meter-high cliffs, is circled by the Fjord Route, a 105-kilometer journey.
On each side of the fjord, quirky and ancient tiny communities abound, including those among Quebec’s most beautiful settlements.
What better way to take advantage of the gorgeous scenery than by embarking on a whalewatching tour inBaie-Sainte-Catherine?
There are audio guides available for purchase if you want to learn more about the cities and sights you pass through on your journey.
Baie-Sainte-Catherine is a good place to start.
235 kilometers is the total distance.
About a day or two
The Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, the Musée de la Nature, the Musée du Fjord, and the Saguenay Fjord National Park are all must-sees.
The King’s Road (Chemin du Roy)
The King’s Road connects Quebec City and Montreal, the two largest cities in the province. The ‘royal road,’ as it was called, was created in 1737 to link the two largest communities in ‘New France.’
When it was built, it was north of the Rio Grande the longest road in the country. For a unique Quebec road trip, walk in the footsteps of stagecoaches and ox-drawn carts as you make your way across the country’s rich history.
Travel through historic villages like Repentigny and Trois-Rivières, home to stunning churches and delectable local food.
Along the way, you’ll see historic landmarks and scenic landscapes before arriving at Old Quebec or Old Montreal, with its cobblestone streets (depending on whether you choose to start this road trip in Montreal or from Quebec City).
Also, the King’s Road is a Green Route, which means that cyclists can ride it without fear.
Montreal or Quebec City are good starting points.
Two hundred and eighty miles
About a day or two
Quebec Folk Culture Museum, Old Prison of Trois Rivières, Lake St. Pierre are among the best places to visit in the province.
The Wine Route (Route des vins)
You’ll need a designated driver for this trip. An easy-to-follow route connecting 21 vineyards is the Wine Route.
The Brome-Missisquoi area is home to two of Quebec’s oldest vineyards, as well as a swarm of newcomers who are making waves in the province’s wine industry.
The Wine Route isn’t only about wine, of course. The tiny villages you pass through along the road are full with excellent eateries, local artists, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Farnham, through Montreal, is the starting point (1 hour southeast)
The distance is 138 km.
ranging from a few hours to many days
Must-see attractions include all of the area’s wineries as well as Brome Lake, Mont Sutton, and the Centre de Santé Euro-Spa, among others.
The Navigators’ Route, a 292-mile trail along the southern part of the Saint Lawrence River, takes you through ancient cities and seaports.
While most people start in Quebec City, the route follows highway 132 through three distinct regions: Centre-du-Québec, Chaudière-Appalaches, and Bas Saint-Laurent.
Along the journey, you may see historic lighthouses, go sea kayaking, have a picnic on the St. Lawrence River, and take in the splendor of the Quebec countryside.
Keep a look out for sail-shaped symbols, which signify a vista or location worth stopping at, throughout the journey.
The starting location is Baie-du-Febvre (or Quebec City to cut down on distance)
About 470 miles away.
Approximately four days
Bécancour’s Centre de la Biodiversité du Québec is a must-see, as are the islands of the Pot à l’Eau-de-Vie archipelago and Île aux Lièvres, the Maritime Museum of Quebec, the Bic Provincial Park, and the Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site.
The Whale Route (Route des Baleines)
The St. Lawrence Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence are home to thirteen distinct species of whales, which served the inspiration for the Whale Route. Y
ou’ll see blue signs with a white whale on them as you make your way from town to town along the eastern coast of Quebec.
Stunning views, historic lighthouses, shipwrecks, animals, and of course, delicious seafood abound on this coastal trip.
This Quebec road trip is mostly intended to visit the ocean giants that give the region its name. Whale-watching trips may be taken by boat, Zodiac, or sea kayak in villages along the way.
Tadoussac is a good place to start.
1,250 kilometers is the travel distance.
Between 4 and 6 days
Visit the Cap de Bon Desir Interpretation Center, the Daniel Johnson Dam, and the Manic-5 Generating Station near Pointe-des-Monts Lighthouse.
Conclusion
A road trip is always fun and I love them. In fact, I have made many road trips over the years from Montreal to different places in Quebec and other places in Canada.
It has helped me get to know some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Quebec, Canada and in North America.
If you would like to make your own road trip, check out the 10 Best Road Trips From Montreal 2020 which includes pictures of each location and places to stay along the way.
