Must-see places in Quebec for some leaf-peeping

Destinations to explore, September 16, 2024 2024-09-16
quebecvacances.com
quebecvacances.com
Chairlift in action during the foliage season. Sommet Saint-Sauveur. © Alain Denis

Who can claim to be unimpressed at the sight of fall colours? Certainly not us! Whether you’re out for a stroll in a forest, a jaunt through colourful city streets or headed to a foliage festival on a mountain, the opportunities to make the most of this magical season are endless. Wondering where to go to see all of this? With a variety of attractions and cozy accommodations, these regions are among the top spots for admiring the flamboyant landscapes and discovering hidden treasures this fall.


The Saint-Sauveur Valley in the fall.
Manoir Saint-Sauveur

The Saint-Sauveur Valley

Immerse yourself in the magic of colour in the heart of the Laurentians, in the Saint-Sauveur Valley. The Sommet Saint-Sauveur Fall Foliage festival, happening on weekends between September 14 and October 27, promises a unique mountain experience to admire the colours of fall with a whole host of activities like chairlift rides, hikes, rides and mountain biking.

After a day of rich discoveries, head to Manoir Saint-Sauveur. This hotel located at the foot of the mountain is just a stone’s throw from the city’s restaurants, shops and attractions. With its spa and complete fine-dining experience, this refined and welcoming place is ideal for recharging your batteries and savouring fall in a serene atmosphere.


The Vaudreuil-Soulanges region

This region located between the Island of Montreal and Ontario is a popular spot for picking your own apples and pumpkins and for family outings in the fall. So it’s no surprise that it’s also a prime destination for admiring foliage! Head to Mont Rigaud on October 12-13-14 and 19-20 for the special Color Weekends event. You’ll get to enjoy panoramic chairlift rides, mountain hikes, bouncy games, local products, mountain bike initiation activities and much more!

And once you’ve enjoyed the foliage to the fullest, why not rest overnight and take advantage of the region’s wide range of accommodations: nature campsites, family-friendly hotels, charming inns, old-fashioned cottages and more. Ideal for getting some Zs and dreaming of beautiful landscapes!


Mountain biker making a jump in a fall setting.
At Mont Rigaud, you can take an intro to mountain biking!

Fairmont Le Château Montebello and the Ottawa River in the fall.
Fairmont Le Château Montebello

Petite-Nation

Proud of its vibrant culture and local delicacies, Petite-Nation, located within the Outaouais region, is also a great place for fall hiking. Boasting themed roads and wonderful parks, options abound for leaf-peeping at your leisure.

And after a beautiful day in this colourful setting, why not treat yourself to the luxury of a stay in the rustic charm of Fairmont Le Château Montebello? Everything is within easy reach at this legendary resort and you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to activities on site. Unwind with a round of golf, go for full relaxation at the spa or indulge in cuisine inspired by the season at the Nymark or Aux Chantignoles restaurants.


Québec City

Ahhh, Québec City! Beautiful in every season, this always-popular city is particularly irresistible under a canopy of yellow, orange and red. Take a long walk along the Promenade Samuel-De Champlain to admire the moving tableau of the river’s colourful shores. Then explore Old Québec City, made even more bewitching when the trees add their shimmering autumnal hues.

In the evening, Hôtel Universel Québec is the perfect place to unwind and recharge after a foliage hunt. Its exotic indoor garden with heated pool and Nordic spa will warm your body and soul, while giving you the energy you need to continue your seasonal stroll the next day!

Indoor pool at Hotel Universel in Québec City.
Hotel Universel Québec. Photo credit: Frédéric Bergeron

No matter which region you choose to visit, Quebec’s colourful landscapes are always splendid. Keep an eye on this fall foliage map to guide your explorations this fall!


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