Laurentian Mountains Day Trip From Montreal

Traveling from Montreal to the Laurentian Mountains offers a refreshing escape into nature, charming villages, and a touch of outdoor adventure. This full-day tour promises a scenic drive, quaint French-style towns, and time to explore one of North America’s top ski resorts, Mont-Tremblant. We’ve gathered insights from past travelers, along with the tour’s highlights, to help you decide if this trip is worth your time and money.

What we love about this tour is its beautiful mix of breathtaking views, authentic villages, and the chance to experience Mont-Tremblant up close. The guided aspect ensures a smooth journey with commentary packed with local stories, plus the hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easy. That said, some reviews highlight inconsistency in organization and the importance of confirming your pickup in advance, so a little extra planning might be needed.

This tour suits travelers who crave a taste of Quebec’s outdoors, enjoy scenic drives, or want a quick day trip to break from city life. If you’re after a relaxed yet picturesque experience with opportunities for shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, this might just be your ideal escape.

Good To Know

• Convenient full-day format with hotel pickup and drop-off from Montreal.
• Visiting charming villages like Saint-Sauveur, Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard, and Saint-Agathe-des-Monts.
• Scenic views of mountains, forests, and lakes that highlight Quebec’s natural beauty.
• Flexible free time at Mont-Tremblant for activities like shopping, dining, or riding the gondola.
• Knowledgeable guides who share regional insights, making the trip more engaging.
• Variable reviews, with some noting organizational hiccups and inconsistent experiences.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup in downtown Montreal at 8:00 am, making it easy for travelers staying centrally. The two-hour drive to the Laurentians is comfortable, offering passengers scenic glimpses of Quebec’s lush forests and rolling hills. The group size is capped at around 52 travelers, striking a balance between social and intimate.

First Stop: Saint-Sauveur

The journey begins with a visit to Saint-Sauveur, a village famous for its ski resort and lively boutique-lined Main Street. Travelers can expect around an hour of free time here to browse shops, art galleries, and enjoy the cozy cafes. One reviewer mentioned that “the shops and boutiques along Principale Street are charming, with clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs,” giving a sense of the village’s inviting atmosphere.

However, some reviews highlight organizational issues with check-in and pickup logistics, so it’s key to reconfirm your pickup details to avoid confusion. One traveler noted that they had to wait outside in the cold for 15 minutes due to miscommunication, which can be frustrating if not prepared.

Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard and Lac Joseph

Next, the group stops at Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard for a quick photo stop of Lac Joseph, a peaceful lake framed by trees and mountains. This brief 15-minute moment is perfect for snapping some photos and enjoying the fresh air. The reviews praise the scenic views, with one mentioning that the “lake’s tranquility and the surrounding nature are worth the quick stop.”

Saint-Agathe-des-Monts

Further along, the tour visits Saint-Agathe-des-Monts for about an hour. Past travelers appreciated the relaxed pace and the chance to take in the village’s small-town charm. Some noted that the visit offers a good opportunity to stretch and enjoy local scenery.

Mont-Tremblant: The Highlight

The most anticipated part of the trip is the three hours at Mont-Tremblant, where visitors have plenty of time for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Mont-Tremblant’s picturesque village is a hub of activity, with winding streets, outdoor patios, and an inviting atmosphere. The gondola ride to the mountain top is especially popular, offering sweeping views of the surrounding forests and lakes.

One reviewer enthusiastically shared, “The gondola ride up to the mountain was fantastic, and the village is full of charm with lots of cafes and shops.” Others highlighted the opportunity to enjoy a French-style lunch with a glass of wine, adding a touch of indulgence to the day.

A few feedback points mentioned that the three hours might feel a little rushed, especially if you want to fully enjoy all the outdoor activities or ride the gondola multiple times. Still, the freedom to explore at your own pace makes this a flexible stop.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After spending time at Mont-Tremblant, the bus heads back to Montreal in the late afternoon, arriving around 8:00 pm. Past travelers appreciated the smooth ride back, with some praising the driver’s safe and attentive driving even in traffic.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Scenic Drive and Natural Beauty

Traveling through the narrow country roads along the Laurentians, you’ll appreciate the stunning views of mountains, forests, and lakes. Several reviews mentioned how breathtaking the scenery was, especially during the peak fall foliage season when the trees turn a kaleidoscope of colors.

Quaint Village Experience

The stops in Saint-Sauveur, Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard, and Saint-Agathe-des-Monts offer a glimpse into Quebec’s village life, with their cozy streets, local shops, and relaxed vibe. These villages are ideal for those wanting to avoid large tourist crowds and enjoy authentic local charm.

Mont-Tremblant’s Appeal

As the star of the tour, Mont-Tremblant offers a versatile experience—whether you’re into shopping, outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the scenery. The gondola ride and the numerous cafes and shops provide options regardless of the season.

Guide and Transportation

Past reviews frequently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with many mentioning guides like Richard and Claire Marie for their storytelling and engaging commentary. The modern, comfortable bus ensures a relaxed journey, although some reports mention issues with mic problems or bus breakdowns, so be prepared for possible hiccups.

Analyzing the Value

At $92.66 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for the scenic experience, guided commentary, and transportation convenience. For travelers who prefer a hassle-free day with organized transportation and fixed schedules, this is a solid choice. However, given the mixed reviews on organization and timing, it’s wise to confirm your pickup details in advance and be flexible with expectations.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easy logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Beautiful scenic stops and picturesque villages
• Good guide commentary adding cultural context
• Free time at Mont-Tremblant for personal exploration

Cons:

• Some travelers experienced logistical issues or delays
• Limited time in villages and Mont-Tremblant, which might feel rushed
• Occasional mention of bus breakdowns or microphone issues

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day trip from Montreal, especially those interested in outdoor scenery, quaint villages, and Mont-Tremblant. It’s ideal if you want a guided experience that handles transportation and logistics, but keep in mind that some reviews suggest you should confirm your pickup to avoid issues.

If you prefer a more flexible, self-guided adventure or are sensitive to organizational hiccups, you might want to weigh the potential for delays or miscommunications.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it convenient for travelers staying in downtown Montreal.

How long does the drive to the Laurentians take?
The drive is approximately two hours each way, giving plenty of time for scenic views and conversation.

How much free time do I get at Mont-Tremblant?
You’ll have about three hours for activities like shopping, dining, riding the gondola, or sightseeing.

Can I ride the gondola?
Yes, during your free time, you can take a gondola ride to the mountain top, with tickets available for around $32 round-trip.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for scenic shots are recommended. Remember to reconfirm your pickup details to avoid missed transportation.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are plenty of restaurants and cafes at Mont-Tremblant and other stops.

Is this tour suitable year-round?
Yes, the tour runs in all seasons. In winter, expect snow and skiing; in fall, spectacular foliage; in summer, lush greenery; and in spring, blooming landscapes.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at around 52 travelers, offering a balance between socializing and comfort.

Is the tour worth the price?
Given the scenic stops, guided commentary, and ease of transportation, most travelers find it offers good value, especially if you want a hassle-free experience outside Montreal.

Final Thoughts

A trip to the Laurentian Mountains from Montreal can be the perfect mini-getaway for nature lovers and those craving a break from city life. While organizational issues have been noted, the stunning scenery, authentic villages, and Mont-Tremblant’s charm make this trip worthwhile. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate guided excursions and are flexible with timing.

If you’re hoping for a picture-perfect day filled with mountain views, quaint streets, and outdoor fun, this tour offers a balanced mix of all that at a reasonable price. Just remember, confirming your pickup in advance and managing expectations about timing will help ensure a smooth adventure.

In essence, this tour is best for those wanting a straightforward, scenic escape with the convenience of guided transportation and a taste of Quebec’s beautiful outdoors. Whether you’re visiting Montreal for a short trip or looking for a memorable day out, the Laurentian Mountains deliver a genuine taste of Quebec’s natural and cultural charm.