New year, new adventures.
If you weren’t one of the lucky people who got away for the Christmas break to have some much-needed R&R, a short haul winter getaway may be needed. I have to say that judging by my Instagram, it seemed like the majority of people I know managed to slip away on a grand holiday. Funny how social media can make everyone else’s lives seem like one big adventure. It is important to keep in mind that social media is often a highlight reel. Not the everyday life people lead. As my husband and I are finding our groove and learning life with a newborn baby, I found a need to remind myself of this.
“Sometimes we are the traveler, and sometimes we are the onlooker”.
Over the past years, pre-baby, we have taken our getaways at every opportunity. So, if you need some ideas on where to take your next winter getaway, here are four must do short haul trips that I personally recommend (cannot wait to take one soon).
Vermont:
Vermont is a gorgeous place to visit in both the winter and summer. We went in the winter and stayed in Burlington for the first few nights. Burlington offered wonderful culinary experiences, brewery tours and nightlife. We also attended a winter fair where they had dog sledding and snow tubing! It was a great spot to have date nights. Following this stay, we ventured into the mountains and stayed at Smugglers Notch, a ski resort in Stowe that offered a family friendly getaway in a beautiful snow filled valley. The resort was fairly rustic and had plenty of room choices offering a mix of hotel style and multi bedroom condos. We took an evening snowmobile tour through seasonally closed roads, and it was an exciting, adrenaline filled tour. The resort had plenty of ski options as well as a small spa.
Transportation is important to decide based on the weather forecast. We drove to Vermont and endured severely bad weather. In the future we may opt to fly and rent a car once we arrive to avoid the long trip, filled with white knuckle driving. Plan this part with caution. I assure you the trip is worth it.
Quebec City:
Do you ever miss the cobble stone streets in Europe? If Europe isn’t in the plan or budget this year, Quebec City offers the same charm for a fraction of the price.
The quaint streets offer cafes on every corner and little shops allowing tourists to spend the day enjoying unique culinary experiences and beautiful views of the St Lawrence river. There are many hotels and Airbnb’s in central locations. We stayed at the Chateau Frontenac, overlooking Quebec City. This beautiful hotel certainly added to the enjoyment of our trip. We happened to go on St. Jean Baptiste day weekend, so the city was bustling into the wee hours of the morning. If you are celebrating something special, I recommend checking out the restaurant along the St Lawrence river called Lauriel Raphael. This restaurant offers a chic, gastronomic experience.
We decided to fly to Quebec City and walk or take cabs as needed. This worked very well for us as we stayed in the downtown core.
Ottawa:
The nation’s capital; the heartbeat of our parliament. I was lucky enough to live in Ottawa for a few years, and it is unlike any other city in Canada. I love being in Ottawa on a weeknight, especially while the house is sitting. Young professionals and MPs fill the streets and restaurants. You may even catch the PM’s motorcade driving down the busy streets.
“You feel like you are in the middle of where the change makers reside, and you really are.”
As far as a vacation, Ottawa has many options. Skating on the rideau canal is a popular Canadian pastime. The Byward market is a cluster of restaurants and bars that young professionals tend to gravitate to. Staying around this area is highly recommended as it is still within walking distance to the parliament buildings and downtown core. The Andaz by Hyatt is a modern hotel with a great location. This hotel also has a rooftop lounge with exceptional views of the city. Keep in mind to dress for the weather. Ottawa winters are fierce and if you find yourself without a car or walking long distances, you will need to be prepared for the frigid temperatures.
If you are looking to spoil yourselves, plan to visit the Nordik Spa in Chelsea. It is only a 15 minute drive from Ottawa and has exceptional spa services. It also features a year round, outdoor thermal cycle. If you are visiting without the kids, check out the HOM Mini Cottages for a special one or two night getaway while you indulge in the Nordik spa.
Mont Tremblant:
A spectacular place to visit during the winter months. This village is a hub for winter sports and outdoor comradery. If you are an avid skier, the runs have a variety of difficulty levels which can challenge the most talented skiers. There is also an assortment of accommodation options. If you are looking for the ‘swanky hotel experience’, the Fairmont is a fabulous option. Having indoor and outdoor year-round pools and hot tubs, along with early lift access and skate rentals included in your stay. However, there are many condo rentals available, some of which have 25% off sales to celebrate the new year.
What winter getaway is complete without a visit to the spa? If Mont Tremblant is where you are going, then you are in luck! Mont Tremblant has a fabulous Scandinave Spa on site. Be sure to book well in advance of going so you aren’t disappointed. This spa is often booked up weeks in advance.
Hope you are able to take advantage of one of these four must do short haul trips soon! If you end up going, or have more questions, leave a comment below. Happy adventuring! If you’re looking for some winter getaway ideas click here.
