If you’re craving an autumn getaway near Montreal that feels straight out of a storybook, there’s a small town in Quebec that’s got quaint shops, cozy coffee shops and no shortage of dreamy fall vistas.
The charming small town of Montebello may be tiny — home to fewer than 1,000 residents — but it feels like it was designed to be experienced during the autumn, with countless tree-lined streets glowing in all the shades of the season.
Located just under two hours from Montreal, it’s close enough to make it a day trip, but once you’re there, you’ll probably want to stay a night or two and soak in the charm of it all.
I’ve visited in nearly every season, from twinkling winters to flower-filled summers, but autumn remains my favourite. A few years back, I spent a dreamy weekend here in mid-September, and it quickly became my go-to spot near Montreal for soaking up the season.
Parc Omega.Helena Hanson | MTL Blog
My first stop was Parc Omega, a sprawling wildlife park just outside the village. Driving through rolling trails blanketed in orange and gold leaves, I found myself surrounded by elk, bison, and deer who strolled right up to my window for carrots. Watching these animals against the backdrop of expansive fall vistas felt like stepping into a fall fairytale.
Parc Omega also has its own walking trails and picnic areas, where you can really soak up the scenery.
A female elk surrounded by fall foliage.Helena Hanson | MTL Blog
Afterward, I made my way to what is probably the town’s most iconic spot: Fairmont Le Château Montebello. Considered the world’s largest log cabin, this place is every bit as Canadian as it is cozy.
Built with massive red cedar logs, the whole place feels like a charming, oversized chalet, giving you that classic cabin feel that’ll make you feel like you’re hanging out in a ski village.
Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s worth dropping in for the atmosphere alone. Inside, I warmed up beside the Château’s enormous six-sided stone fireplace, watching the flames as guests nearby curled into armchairs with steaming mugs of hot chocolate. I was so enamoured, the next day I returned and splurged on a spa/pool pass.
I was able to soak in the 75-foot-long indoor heated swimming pool where towering glass windows framed the falling leaves outside. There are whirlpools and saunas, too, if you’re looking to warm up even more.
What’s more, the Château itself really embraces the fall/winter seasons. When I visited, a bonfire was set up every evening from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., where guests and visitors could gather, roast marshmallows, and craft the ultimate s’mores.
Montebello’s food scene is just as comforting as its landscapes. During my fall visit, I tried Restaurant Le Bistro Montebello, a charming spot known for its wood-fired oven-baked pizzas and hearty pub-style menu.
The small restaurant was busy and had a bustling atmosphere, and I tucked into a crisp beer and a bubbling pizza straight from the oven. It was simple, hearty, and exactly what I needed after a day outside.
Beyond that, Montebello’s main street is filled with small-town gems worth exploring. Fromagerie Montebello offers award-winning cheeses that pair perfectly with a crisp fall evening, while Microbrasserie Les Brasseurs de Montebello serves up craft beers in a friendly setting.
For something a little more hands-on, La Shed Qui Tourne pottery studio lets you pick up a handmade piece — or try your hand at making your own.
History lovers will find another layer of charm at Manoir Papineau National Historic Site, a 19th-century estate that once belonged to politician Louis-Joseph Papineau. In autumn, the manor’s sweeping grounds are transformed into a carpet of leaves, perfect for a cozy stroll with a hot drink to sip.
Montebello, Quebec
Distance from Montreal: 1 hour and 30 minutes
When: From mid-September onwards
Address: Montebello, QC
Why You Need To Go: With its fiery foliage, wildlife encounters, rustic charm, and warm hospitality, this cozy village proves that you don’t need to travel far to find a dreamy fall escape.
Montebello Website
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.
The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Narcity Media.
