Deux-Montagnes Travel Guide

Explore the best of Deux-Montagnes in Southwestern Quebec with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover natural wonders, cultural attractions, and local customs.


Introduction to Deux-Montagnes

Deux-Montagnes is a charming city located in the Laurentians region of Southwestern Quebec, Canada. Named after two beautiful mountains that overlook the city, it’s a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich cultural experiences. The city is situated on the shore of Lake of Two Mountains, which offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

List of Places to Visit in Deux-Montagnes

Deux-Montagnes has a lot to offer, whether you’re interested in natural wonders, cultural attractions, or outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best places to visit in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musee d’histoire de Deux-Montagnes: This museum showcases the history and cultural heritage of the city, including exhibits on the founding of Deux-Montagnes and its role in the development of Quebec.
  • Maison du citoyen: This historic building was built in the early 1900s and houses the city hall, a library, and a community center.
  • Saint-Eustache Church: One of the oldest churches in Quebec, Saint-Eustache Church was built in the mid-1700s and features stunning architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Deux-Montagnes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oka National Park: Located just a short drive from Deux-Montagnes, Oka National Park offers hiking trails, sandy beaches, and stunning views of Lake of Two Mountains.
  • Sentier nature le Petit Train du Nord: This 200-kilometer trail runs along an old railway line and is popular with hikers, cyclists, and cross-country skiers.
  • Parc des Ancres: A beautiful park on the shore of Lake of Two Mountains, Parc des Ancres features picnic tables, a playground, and a pier for fishing and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Deux-Montagnes

Deux-Montagnes is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling. Here are some of the best trails in the area:

  • Linear Park Le P’tit Train du Nord: This trail runs for 200 kilometers, passing through several charming towns and offering beautiful views of the Laurentians region.
  • Oka National Park: This park has a variety of hiking trails, including the Les Calvairees trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
  • Bois de Belle-Riviere Regional Park: This park is home to several hiking and mountain biking trails, including the Les Asters trail, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding forests.

Best Things to Do in Deux-Montagnes: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural activities, or shopping, Deux-Montagnes has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Take a boat tour of Lake of Two Mountains: Several tour companies offer boat tours of the lake, which offer beautiful views and a chance to see local wildlife.
  • Visit the Musee d’histoire de Deux-Montagnes: This museum features exhibits on the history and cultural heritage of the city, including artifacts from the founding of Deux-Montagnes.
  • Go skiing at Mont Saint-Sauveur: This ski resort offers 40 different trails for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, as well as a mountain coaster and a snow park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Deux-Montagnes

If you have a week to spend in Deux-Montagnes, here’s an itinerary that will allow you to experience everything the area has to offer:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Deux-Montagnes and explore the city’s historic district, including the Maison du citoyen and Saint-Eustache Church.
  • Day 2: Take a boat tour of Lake of Two Mountains and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Day 3: Visit Oka National Park and hike trails like Les Calvairees or simply relax on one of the park’s sandy beaches.
  • Day 4: Explore the Musee d’histoire de Deux-Montagnes and learn about the city’s cultural heritage.
  • Day 5: Go skiing at Mont Saint-Sauveur or try other winter sports like snowboarding or snowshoeing.
  • Day 6: Visit Parc des Ancres and enjoy a picnic by the lake.
  • Day 7: Explore the shops and restaurants of downtown Deux-Montagnes and buy souvenirs to bring home.

Food and Drink Scene of Deux-Montagnes

Deux-Montagnes has a vibrant food and drink scene, with restaurants and cafes serving up everything from local specialties to international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the area:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: This classic Quebec dish is made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy, and is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.
  • Tourtiere: A savory meat pie that is a staple of traditional Quebecois cuisine.
  • Maple syrup: Quebec is known for its maple syrup, which is often used as a sweetener in dishes like pancakes and waffles.

Local Beverages

  • Unibroue beer: This Quebec-based brewery is famous for its Belgian-style beers, like Blanche de Chambly and La Fin du Monde.
  • Ice cider: A sweet dessert wine that is unique to Quebec, made by freezing fermented apple juice to concentrate the flavors.
  • Caribou: A traditional Quebecois drink made from red wine, whisky, and maple syrup.

Where to Stay in Deux-Montagnes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Deux-Montagnes has accommodation options for every budget and travel style. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Hotel-Spa-Suisse: This hotel is located in a restored 19th-century mansion and offers luxurious accommodations and a full-service spa.
  • Auberge du Lac Morency: A charming inn with comfortable rooms and a lakeside location, featuring swimming, kayaking, and paddleboats.
  • Le Capri Motel et Suites: A budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms and easy access to downtown Deux-Montagnes.

What to Buy in Deux-Montagnes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Deux-Montagnes is a great place to find unique souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the best things to buy in the area:

  • Maple syrup: Quebec is known for its delicious maple syrup, which can be found in various forms, such as candies or from bars.
  • Local products: The city’s farmers’ markets feature everything from local cheeses and cured meats to fresh produce.
  • Souvenirs: Shops in downtown Deux-Montagnes offer a wide range of souvenirs, including handicrafts, t-shirts and caps.

Local Culture and Customs of Deux-Montagnes

Quebec has a unique language and culture, and Deux-Montagnes is no exception. Visitors should be aware of the following customs and etiquette:

  • Language: French is the official language of Quebec, but many people speak English fluently.
  • Tipping: In Quebec, it’s customary to tip 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants and cafes.
  • Festivals: Deux-Montagnes hosts several festivals throughout the year, including a winter carnival and a summer music festival.

Best Time to Visit Deux-Montagnes

The best time to visit Deux-Montagnes depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, the summer months from May to September offer the best weather and conditions. Winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing are popular from December to March. Fall is also a beautiful season to visit, with stunning foliage and mild temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Deux-Montagnes

Here are some basic do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Deux-Montagnes:

Do:

  • Try local specialties like poutine and maple syrup.
  • Learn a few basic French phrases to show your appreciation of the local culture.
  • Respect the city’s natural and cultural heritage, including wildlife and historic landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended or walk alone in deserted areas at night.
  • Don’t assume that everyone speaks English or expect the same customs as in your home country.

Safety and Health

Deux-Montagnes is a safe and healthy city to visit, but visitors should take basic precautions to stay safe and healthy:

Safety in Deux-Montagnes

  • Avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night.
  • Keep valuable items like wallets and phones secure and out of sight.
  • Watch for wildlife such as snakes or bears while hiking or camping.

Health in Deux-Montagnes

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities in the summer months.
  • Use sunscreen and insect repellent as needed.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities, including hat and sunglasses or snow boots and jacket appropriate for the weather. Always take weather forecast into consideration.

Getting to Deux-Montagnes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Deux-Montagnes is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Deux-Montagnes

  • Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport in Montreal: Less than an hour’s drive away, this major airport offers flights to many destinations around the world.

Bus Stations Near Deux-Montagnes

  • Saint-Eustache Station: Located 10 minutes away from Deux-Montagnes, this station offers bus service to many destinations within the province of Quebec.

Other Options

  • Driving: Deux-Montagnes is easily accessible by car, with several major highways running through the area.
  • Train: The Deux-Montagnes train station offers service to Montreal and other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Deux-Montagnes

Deux-Montagnes is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot, but there are also several other ways to get around:

  • Bus: The city offers a public bus system with several routes that run throughout the city and into nearby towns.
  • Bike: The city has several bike paths and trails, and many accommodations offer bike rentals.
  • Car: There are car rental agencies located in Deux-Montagnes and nearby cities for visitors who prefer to drive themselves.

Where to Go Next from Deux-Montagnes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve seen all that Deux-Montagnes has to offer, there are several nearby destinations and day trips worth exploring:

  • Montreal: This vibrant city is located less than an hour’s drive from Deux-Montagnes and offers world-class dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.
  • Quebec City: A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Deux-Montagnes, Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning architecture and rich history.
  • Laurentians: The Laurentians region is home to several charming towns and villages, as well as breathtaking natural beauty.

Conclusion

Deux-Montagnes offers an experience that’s hard to beat, with its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture buff, or just looking to relax and unwind, this city has something to offer every traveler. From museums and historic landmarks to outdoor adventures and unique local cuisine, Deux-Montagnes should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

View of the town hall and the volunteer park, on chemin d'Oka (route 344) View of the town hall and the volunteer park, on chemin d'Oka (route 344) Grand-Moulin Station Grand-Moulin Station Deux-Montagnes Station Deux-Montagnes Station Deux-Montagnes Municipal Library Deux-Montagnes Municipal Library