Winter has a way of nudging us inward, and Quebec might be the most charming place in North America to lean into it. Writer Laura Reilly frames the province as a natural fit for a wellness getaway, where snow-hushed forests, steaming hot tubs and centuries-old streets all encourage you to slow down. Pack your warmest layers; the reward is a trip that feels as good for the mind as it does for the camera roll.
Start in the Eastern Townships at Spa Eastman, a retreat spread across more than 350 wooded acres. Days can include Nordic skiing, yoga, gentle aqua classes and meditative forest walks, followed by saunas, steam rooms, cold plunges and even a hole cut into a frozen lake for the brave. The best advice is to pick only a few activities and leave plenty of time to simply rest.
- Snowshoe through the woods with the Huron-Wendat community at Wendake, then roast bannock over an open fire in a longhouse.
- Sleep in a restored 1600s monastery, Le Monastère des Augustines, with yoga, herbal teas and a health-minded kitchen.
- Brave a night at the Hôtel de Glace, rebuilt every winter from snow and ice, complete with an ice bar and outdoor hot tubs.
In Old Quebec, colorful facades glow with holiday lights and the century-old toboggan run on Dufferin Terrace sends you racing toward the St. Lawrence River. Ride the funicular instead of tackling icy stairs, warm up with poutine, and keep an eye out for maple taffy, hot syrup poured over fresh snow and twirled onto a stick. It is winter at its sweetest.
Source: Matador Network
