Now that the leaves are starting to change from green to reds and yellows, it’s the most opportune and notable time to hit the road and head down south on a two-hour road trip to Vermont for some shopping, noshing, and outdoor-ing.
Hit the road as early as you can to avoid the traffic build-up on the Champlain Bridge. En route to the border, feel free to stop in at any of the truck-stop French Canadian diners, they are all good, none of them have addresses or real names, but all make fabulous poutine.
Head directly to Stowe village and check in at The Green Mountain Inn that’s been putting guests up since 1833. Their rooms are all unique and they have updated over the years to blend modern with classic elegance. Get all nice and tidy, and then head to Stowe Mountain Lodge for dinner at Solstice Restaurant. Having earned the AAA-Four Diamond Distinction, this restaurant is noteworthy for its ever-changing menu and beautiful dishes. Dine and drink into the late hours of the evening and then get some rest to prepare for a busy day in Burlington.
Have a bite in the morning at the bed and breakfast, and then head back north approximately 20 minutes to the town of Burlington, Vermont. Get yourself right into the heart of the town, park and walk around the main street where you can mosey in and out of clothing shops, bookstores, head shops and vintage clothing stores. Move down towards the water and settle in for lunch at Shanty on the Shore, located right on the water by the marina; this is the spot for seafood. Whether you indulge in their calamari served with yellow banana peppers, their abnormally large crab cakes, their toasted fish taco, or their succulent lobster roll, at the end of the meal you will be blown away and satisfied.
Spend the afternoon at the Burlington Brew Tours, New England’s only all-inclusive beer adventure where they provide a fun and interesting way to visit the region’s top breweries. Head back to Stowe for dinner at Harrison’s Restaurant and Bar and dancing at Rusty Nail Bar and Grille, the main hot spot in town.
Sunday, hit the Ben & Jerry’s Factory on your way out of town. See the history of one of the best ice cream joints worldwide, taste their wide array of flavours, and then hit the road to make it back to Montreal in time for a cozy dinner at home and a regroup before the start of a new work week.