Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Thanksgiving Colours in Matawatchan, Chelsea and Old Montreal


We are so blessed in this part of the world with amazing fall colours.  Long drives are a pleasure this time of year and a perfect time to do some exploring.

Lois and Mark were hosting Thanksgiving on the Hill in Matawatchan and we had an absolutely wonderful time soaking up the autumn vibes. The views from their place are absolutely incredible, and we saw deer and wild turkeys right on the doorstep. Sunset was beautiful and the night sky full of stars. Lois and Mark are such gracious hosts. Dinner was wonderful, and it was a pleasure to see everyone who could make it. 



Penny suggested that afterward she and Alex and Rob and I share a visit to the Nordik spa in Chelsea. I've never been to an outdoor spa like this before, but this was the third trip for her. What a treat to soak in hot whirlpools, plunge into cold pools, and float in saltwater caverns. There were also a restaurants, yurts, outdoor firepits, and quiet rooms for yoga and meditation. Wow! I could definitely go back for more, but next time might pick a weekday and not a busy Thanksgiving long weekend. 

Although we could have eaten at the spa, we headed over to the Chelsea Gastro Pub for a delicious meal and  cocktails. We also shared overnight accommodations at Lofts du Village. It was such a great excursion and time to enjoy making happy new memories with Alex and Penny. 


Rob and I went on for a two night stay in the heart of Old Montreal, but stopped off to visit Tony and Mary first.  They suggested a driving route that took us through some very picturesque towns along Hi-way 417: Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Dorval and Pointe-Clair. Some very historic buildings, lovely gardens and parks. Very scenic drive.

We arrived in Old Montreal with ample time to check in at Lofts du Vieux-Port. This was a bit of a splurge, but staying in the heart of things meant we could relax and not worry about driving and parking. After dropping off our bags we walked and walked and enjoyed every minute of playing flaneur/flaneuse. So much history, architecture, restaurants, and galleries to soak in. 

Before heading westward home, we continued our road trip with a stop at St-Viateur Bagel and then to Mount Royale for a view of the city from the top of Mount Royale.

A memorable roadtrip and the perfect time of year to play the tourist in this part of the country.







 

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