Summer is in full force, and if you’ve been meaning to plan a road trip from Montreal, there are a handful of nearby small towns that are well worth the visit.
In fact, the most beautiful small towns and villages in Canada were ranked and five Quebec destinations managed to make the cut.
CultureTrip, an online travel tool that provides guides, bookings and more, released its list of the 20 Most Beautiful Towns & Villages in Canada, and you’re going to want to add these to your summer bucket list.
While renowned Canadian destinations such as Niagara-on-the-Lake, Banff, Whistler, Mahone Bay and St Andrews-by-the-Sea in New Brunswick all made the list, and are stunning Canadian spots to visit, Quebec is seemingly where it’s at.
Here are the Quebec towns and villages that were named among the most beautiful in Canada:
Frelighsburg
Distance from Montreal: 1 hour
Why You Need To Go: Located just minutes from Vermont on the Canada-U.S. border, Frelighsburg offers a unique international ambiance and a rich history dating back to the late 18th century, featuring well-preserved brick and wood structures like the 1839 Freligh Mill. Renowned for its apple orchards, it is an ideal autumn destination where visitors can pick apples at local farms such as Verger de Coeur de la Pomme or enjoy apple-based treats like ice cider and unfiltered farmer’s cider made from orchard-fresh apples.
Frelighsburg tourism website
North Hatley
Distance from Montreal: 1 hour 30 minutes
Why You Need To Go: Founded in 1897, North Hatley is celebrated as one of Quebec’s most beautiful small towns, offering breathtaking landscapes, unique architectural heritage, and a charming village center. Located at the northern tip of Lake Massawippi, the village’s natural amphitheater attracts many tourists and is a renowned vacation spot in the Eastern Townships. North Hatley boasts sumptuous century-old homes transformed into charming inns, B&Bs, and restaurants, with notable establishments like the internationally recognized Manoir Hovey Relais & Châteaux. Visitors enjoy a variety of art galleries, antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a delightful destination.
North Hatley tourism website
Quebec City
Distance from Montreal: 2 hours 30 minutes
Why You Need To Go: Can you ever really go wrong with Quebec City? Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is adorned with cobblestone streets and the only fortified city north of Mexico offering old world charm. Visitors can explore its beautiful streets, enjoy views of the St. Lawrence River, and admire the stunning Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, which just so happens to be the most photographed hotel across the globe. The area also boasts many renowned restaurants offering some of the best Quebec cuisine.
Quebec City tourism website
Tadoussac
Distance from Montreal: 5 hours 30 minutes
Why You Need To Go: Tadoussac, a charming village on the St. Lawrence River, is a must-visit for its exceptional whale-watching, stunning hiking trails, and rich history. Enjoy breathtaking views, explore the historic Chauvin Trading Post, and savor delicious local seafood and Quebecois cuisine in its charming bistros and restaurants. With its natural beauty, diverse activities, and delectable food, Tadoussac promises an unforgettable experience.
Tadoussac tourism website
Baie-Saint-Paul
Distance from Montreal: 4 hours
Why You Need To Go: Baie-Saint-Paul, a picturesque town in Quebec’s Charlevoix region, is a must-visit for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its vibrant arts scene, visitors can explore numerous galleries and the renowned Musée d’Art Contemporain. The town offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, scenic hiking trails, and local gourmet cuisine featuring fresh, regional ingredients. With its charming streets, artistic flair, and beautiful landscapes, Baie-Saint-Paul promises a memorable and enriching experience.
Baie-Saint-Paul tourism website
For the complete ranking of the top 20 most beautiful small towns in Canada, visit here.
This article’s cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
