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- Issue #13: Montreal’s Calling: City Energy, Lake Swims, no Clipboard
Issue #13: Montreal’s Calling: City Energy, Lake Swims, no Clipboard

WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS ISSUE:
Montreal’s queer-friendly base
Laurentians’ wild trails and warm nights
Optional extension to the Eastern Townships
A flexible 5-day plan
Who this trip is best for (and who it’s not)
Resources to plan it right
MAIN FEATURE:
Montreal: City Comfort, Nature Calls
Montreal is a city that wraps you up in art and laughter. On one hand there are the queer bars in Le Village, street art in Mile End, and the kind of late-night poutine (french fries and cheese curds topped with a hot brown gravy) that turns strangers into friends.
Events like Fierté Montréal, the largest LGBTQ+ gathering in the french-speaking world, and the Massimadi Festival, celebrating Black LGBTQ+ culture, showcase the city's commitment to inclusivity and celebration.
It’s a place where holding hands or kissing your partner on a terrace doesn’t need a second thought. No rainbow sticker required, yippee.
But if you’re like me, a perfect trip means getting out of the city too.
That’s where the Laurentians and the Eastern Townships come in.
1. Start in Montreal: Playful Days and Cosy Nights
Treat yourself to a gorgeous, mouth-watering croissant in any number of the Plateau bakeries.
Stroll through the quiet charm of Old Montreal’s cobblestones.
Drop into the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts for a bit of culture, then back to Le Village for a cocktail or glass of wine.
Montreal isn’t a city of giant scenes.
It’s a city of small, perfect moments like a café window seat in Mile End or a bike ride down the canal.
We teased Montreal in an earlier issue “Pride Without the Parade” Check it out
2. Then head to the Laurentians: Wild and welcoming

Laurentians
About 90 minutes from Montreal, the Laurentians open up in soft hills and mirror lakes.
Forget crowded tours. Pause at a viewpoint because the light’s too good to rush.
Strip off for a wild swim in a hidden bay (weather permitting!).
It’s sharing a flask of something warm on a forest path with your other half or best mate.
These trails, whether you’re hiking up to see the rolling forests below, or biking the old rail lines of the P’tit Train du Nord are about being together in a place that feels bigger than any of us.
Who it’s good for:
Small groups of friends who want to feel free, safe, and held by nature

3. Optional Extension: Eastern Townships’ Slow Magic
For those with extra time, the Eastern Townships offer a peaceful escape with picturesque villages, vineyards, and opportunities for wild swimming.
Afternoons spent floating in the famous lake Memphremagog, evenings in front of a tiny vineyard bar, and nights watching the sky put on a show in the Mont-Mégantic Dark Sky Reserve.

Lake Memphremagog
Here, travel slows.
It’s quiet.
It’s the best kind of reset.
Who it’s good for:
Couples or close-knit friend groups who want nature, walks, and meaningful conversation, without the crowd anxiety.

Plan the vibe, not just the logistics. Make space for introverts, extroverts, and quiet wanderers.
4. Who This Trip is For — and Who It’s Not
Perfect for:
Couples who want city vibes with a gentle exhale
Friends who’d rather share a car and a flask than a club queue
Maybe not for:
Anyone who wants nightlife every night
Those who hate the idea of getting lost (you will, a little, in the best way)
If you only feel safe with guided tours, this trip is built for your own compass
5-Day Itinerary: City, Forest, and More…
Day 1:
Arrive in Montreal, check into Le Village or Plateau
Explore Old Montreal, find the best bakery
Drinks at a queer bar, maybe a low-key show
Day 2: Journey to the Laurentians
Morning drive to the Laurentians (approx. 1.5 hours).
Check into a lakeside cabin or eco-lodge.
Afternoon hike in Mont-Tremblant National Park.
Evening relaxation by the lake, perhaps a swim or canoe ride.
Day 3: Laurentians Exploration
Cycle the P’tit Train du Nord trail.
Picnic lunch with panoramic views.
Visit a local spa for some rejuvenation.
Stargazing session to end the day.
Day 4: Return to Montreal
Leisurely morning in the Laurentians.
Drive back to Montreal.
Afternoon shopping in Mile End's boutiques.
Day 5: Optional Eastern Townships Extension
Early drive to the Eastern Townships.
Kayaking on Lake Memphremagog.
Explore local vineyards and enjoy wine tastings.
Evening stargazing at Mont-Mégantic Dark Sky Reserve.
What’s Inspiring Us This Week:
What I’m bookmarking:
Content by UNLOCK. Dive into conversations that inspire and empower LGBTQ+ leaders.
What I’m trying to still come to grips with:
This article on the latest insights into travel trends and safety considerations.
What I’m listening to:
Rigour and Flow — a thoughtful, curious and wildly entertaining podcast where business meets love, and culture meets critique.
Who I’m inspired by:
The energy over at Queer MTL. The definitive guide to Montreal queer scene. Joyful, honest, and rooted in queer connection.
That’s a Wrap! Here’s how we help:
We plan LGBTQ+ adventure travel for you and yours, saving the headache
Whether you’re hiking near home or planning a big escape, we got tips!
Got a favourite place you want us to feature next? Email me I’m listening
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Until next time, Go beyond the usual