Cozy winter
Enjoying the cold season in comfort
For nature lovers, the arrival of the cold season is synonymous with outdoor adventure. Whether you're hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, or skating, there's never a better time to explore your corner of the world and take a deep healthy breath of fresh air.
But for others, ice and snow are nothing to write home about. And yet, winter is part of the Québec landscape, like it or not. So how can you make the most of this time of year if you're not into winter activities? Fortunately, the season of snowmen can also be comforting and conducive to good times shared with those who bring warmth to our daily lives. Here are our top five cocooning ideas for enjoying the snow white months in cozy comfort.
Gîte du Mont-Albert
Winter hiking
Immersion in the forest
Walking in the forest doesn't have to be a form of cardiovascular aerobics! In fact, if ever there was a winter activity that leaves room for meditation and contemplation, this is it. All you need to do is dress warmly and find a trail that suits your mood, and you're ready to go. To combine business with pleasure, bring your favourite hot beverage or a hearty homemade snack. There's no better way to recharge your batteries after a busy week.
Need a break? Most of Québec's national parks feature a cabin or heated rest stop for a much needed pause. And if you don't feel like spending the whole day on a lengthy trail, our team has prepared a list of the best destinations for short winter hikes. In short, there's every
Rent a cozy cabin in the heart of nature
Winter means a cabin in the woods! What could be better than an evening by the fireplace, or a hearty meal after a day of playing outside? Not much, let's face it.
Sépaq is full of hidden spots for winter relaxation, whether you're a couple, a family, or a group of friends. But to create unforgettable moments, it's important to plan ahead. Invent meals that put happiness on your plate: banana and chocolate crepes, waffles with whipped cream, onion soup, Chinese fondue, lasagna, wine and cheese, and all sorts of other goodies besides.
To make the most of the evening, enjoy an aperitif outside, play board games, or sip a decadent alcoholic coffee by the fire. Nothing too complicated! The important thing is to indulge in little extras that wouldn't be allowed at home.
Torchlight snowshoe outing at Mont-Mégantic
It's magical to play outside at night! Parc national du Mont-Mégantic invites you to explore various trails by torchlight. Illuminated by the moon and equipped with a headlamp, you can explore the mountain and the stars in perfect harmony.
The outing of a few hundred metres is accessible as of 7:15 p.m., from January 27 to March 23, 2024. It's the perfect activity for young and old alike. Beneath the celestial vault, all that’s left to do is experience the magic of the night!
Fatbikes are hot stuff!
Is your teen or significant other more interested in their video game console than an outdoor activity? A fatbike outing is both original and challenging. A novel distraction for the video game crowd! The bikes' oversized tires provide ideal traction, making riding on snow a whole new adventure.
As the slopes and trails become a veritable playground, those who tend to get cold quickly will forget that it's below zero outside! To maximize the experience, opt for multi-layer clothing that wicks away heat and moisture. Choosing well-insulated mittens or gloves to avoid fingertip frostbite is also just the ticket.
To reward yourself for exploring the trails, plan a break halfway along to sip your favourite beverage: tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced hot cider…why not indeed? Between sips, you can munch on a piece of chocolate or some dried fruit to give you the courage to continue the adventure.
Brunch at Duchesnay?
How about combining nature and culinary delights? What better way to start the day than with a short excursion in the forest, lulled by the breeze and the gentle trill of the birds. The beauty and immensity of the landscape are sure to help you let go and let loose!
After hitting the trails, treat yourself to a gourmet brunch at Station touristique Duchesnay, where every mouthful awakens the senses. Make yourself comfortable on the shores of Lac Saint-Joseph with a buffet that features local Québec flavours... and savour the present moment with all its delights.
Find happiness in hygge mode
There's no doubt that the winter season offers a multitude of little pleasures and surprises, even for the coziest of cozy seekers among us. Whether savouring hot chocolate by the fire or gazing at breathtaking scenery from inside a cozy cabin, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this magical time of year. Rather than dreading the snow, let's reconnect with our childlike hearts and discover the joys of nature in its beautiful white cloak. After all, it's in these moments that the most comforting memories are born!