Continuing from part one of our guide to winter activities in Montreal, we’re looking to distill how this city survives snowstorms, the cold, and what seems to be permanent nightfall.
Hot Chocolate
Many fond, wintry memories feature mugs of hot chocolate. While not an activity in and of itself, sipping cocoa at a chocolatier-cum-café is the perfect way to rest your feet. Geneviève Grandbois is home to some of the most refined chocolate in the city — thankfully, they also offer their genius in the form of a superb three-buck hot beverage. 162 St-Viateur St. W. 514-394-1000.
Skiing
Not even 45 minutes outside Montreal is legendary Mont Brome, a hill that’s nothing to laugh at and boasts a breathtaking view of the surrounding townships. With recent snowfalls, now is as good as it gets to partake in a day of skiing. Newcomers will be glad to know Ski Bromont’s ski school started last weekend (from $85). 150 Rue Champlain, Bromont 450-534-2200.
Brown Booze
Whisky may not be a seasonal thing for everyone, but the sweet and smoky drink has certain attachments to coziness and hibernation. Who says you can’t hibernate in a classy bar like Whisky Café? Here, one of the city’s finest liquor cabinets, where the minimum age of many of the single malts will be older than some of the place’s youngest patrons. 5800 St-Laurent Blvd. 514-278-2646.
Kicksledding
Say wha? We know, but hear us out. A kicksled is kind of like a scooter mixed with skis mixed with Scandinavian innovation (there’s really no other way to describe it). You may look ridiculous kicking and pushing around the hillside, but don’t knock it ’til you try it — these things are ridiculously fun, and, if you’re not immediately convinced, rentable at the Parc du Mont Royal ($12/hr). 1260 Remembrance Rd.
Skating
If you’re not the competitive type, and prefer to get on the ice for leisure, Parc La Fontaine has the best rink in the city. Open from late-morning to 10 p.m., a quick lap is an ambitious, refreshing way to kick-start your day. Bring your own, or rent blades from the park’s offices ($8). 3933 Parc-Lafontaine Ave., 514-872-2644.
———————–
Image courtesy of Filip Marcus Aleksandrow.
I agree, Mont Brome is a great place to learn how to ski. With nine chairlifts to different hills, each a different level of difficulty and two great chalets when it’s time to call it a day.