12 Nov 2015

Time 3 minutes

How to Plan a Romantic Staycation in Old Montreal

How to Plan a Romantic Staycation in Old Montreal

How to Plan a Romantic Staycation in Old Montreal

You’ve surely heard the saying that goes “diamonds are a girl’s best friends”. Well, let us show you another way to spoil and amaze your significant other. Why not surprise her or him with a luxurious weekend getaway to one of the most beautiful areas in the city: Old Montreal!

DAY 1

Settle in your love nest

As far as we are concerned, nothing could be more romantic than staying at one of Old Montreal’s hidden gems: Hôtel Épik, a lovely boutique at 171 St-Paul Street West. Despite its small size, with only ten guest rooms, and its 3-star certification, the services and atmosphere at Épik are that of a luxury establishment. Take, for example, their magnificent 3-story penthouse suite, which combines modern elements with traditional architecture in perfect harmony. Among its many impressive amenities we love the private wine cellar, the dining room, the two private rooftop terraces and the stunning skylight right on top of the master bed. Does it get any better than falling asleep under the stars with your better half? It does. Breakfast is always included!

Walk to a romantic dinner

Speaking of culinary delights, there is no better place to enjoy a meal than Scarlet Exclusive, located at 139 St-Paul Street West. The location boasts one of Montreal’s most beautiful indoor terraces where glamour, elegance, romance and an intimate atmosphere blend to perfection. Its fine Mediterranean cuisine and signature-cocktail menu are sure to seduce your taste buds. We fell in love with their duo of trout tartare and octopus salad as an entrée, followed by their homemade gnocchi and bison short ribs as a main course! An absolute must-try!

After dinner, nothing beats a leisurely stroll on the Old Port’s promenade. For a nightcap, the options are aplenty. La Champagnerie, Santos, Mimi la Nuit and Bar Philémon are only some of the trendy venues to choose from.

DAY 2

Make time for some “we” time

Rainspa 2

Source | RainSpa

A romantic getaway would not be complete without getting pampered at Le Place d’Armes hotel & Suites’ Rainspa on St-Jacques Street. Our favourite package is the Hammam Experience, which includes a private session in their popular steam baths followed by a variety of regenerative treatments such as massages, scrubs, and many more. You can also indulge in a couple’s massage therapy session where you will be pampered using only the most renowned and highest quality products.

Quench your curiosity

If your spa session hasn’t put you in the mood for a nap, why not check out one of the neighbourhood’s museums or art galleries? DHC/ART, for instance, features amazing, free exhibitions while the Pointe-à-Callière Museum and its popular multimedia show will not only please history buffs but also anyone willing to comprehend over 375 years of Montréal history in just 20 minutes. Don’t leave without checking out the ruins and the ongoing exhibition in the adjacent building.

Travel to Argentina

Steps from Pointe-à-Callière, L’Atelier d’Argentine serves up amazing, contemporary Argentinian food in an elegant, yet relaxed atmosphere. Natalia Machado, also the host of One World Kitchen on Gusto TV, unfailingly wows everyone from meat-lovers to vegetarians with her dishes!

To conclude your staycation, plan your own cocktail-tasting exploration. Here’s how. On the way back to your hotel, walk along McGill Street. Referred to as the “New Old Montreal” by regulars, the area abounds with spots, such as Le Commerce and Bistro-Brasserie Les Soeurs Grises, which are great for trying out gourmet drinks and craft beers.

Enjoy !