Montreal - A Honeymoon Destination

As we emerge from a post pandemic period of no travel, and no weddings, it’s time to celebrate. Of course, being safe is paramount so why not honeymoon in Canada. I recently paid a visit to Montreal to check out the scene and needless to say, fell in love (again)! Let’s face it; it’s like being in Europe but less expensive, Canadian dollar being number one!

Naturally you’re going to treat yourselves by staying at a luxury property and what better place than The Hotel Birks. Yes, the iconic Canadian Jeweller has created a stunning property at its’ original flagship location in the heart of Montreal. The lobby is stunning, brought back to its’ original baroque magnificence with a painstaking restoration. The buzzy Restaurant Henri Brasserie Françoise lies opposite the Maison Birks store (maybe a polish on the new rings?).

The rooms exude a certain je ne sais quoi. And that bed! Think sumptuous bed linens and dreamy, cloud like mattress and duvet. The bathroom is beautifully appointed complete with see through shower, apropos considering it’s your honeymoon after all! Dining in Montreal is as easy as walking out the door. Incredible restaurants are everywhere and a highlight would be Bar George. Set in a grand Victorian mansion, now the Le Mount Stephen Hotel, this elegant, modern English bar and restaurant impresses immediately upon entering. With their 300 year old stained glass windows, 15-foot Ceylon satinwood paneled wall and the 22-carat gold fixtures; Bar George highlights the heritage elements and celebrates the nostalgic charm of this historic mansion. The bar, see and be scene; the restaurant, white linen tablecloths and outstanding service.

Brunch in Old Montreal was a treat as we were joined by a friend from Toronto currently working in Montreal. He recommended Restaurant Dandy and let me tell you, it was definitely worth the almost one hour wait (and I never wait!). Bright and airy with friendly service, I indulged myself with the house specialty; ricotta pancakes with cinnamon roasted apples along with a side of smoky maple bacon. The tanginess of the ricotta paired with the sweetness of the roasted apples and maple syrup brought that sweet savoury twist, so simple yet truly outstanding. Another outstanding experience was at Bazart. This sprawling complex encompasses gourmet cuisine, open air art gallery, NFT gallery and a craft market all in a Mediterranean inspired space. It’s like a huge cocktail party as guests eat, visit, browse art and shop.

Cocktails? The recently renovated Fairmont Queen Elizabeth brings a chic rooftop patio; Nacarat is a chic respite above bustling Boulevard Rene Levesque. Spectacular city views compliment the incredible cocktail menu.

Montreal is the full deal, French sophistication meets Canadian comfort. What a wonderful way to celebrate love in one of the country’s oldest cities, truly romantic!

DARCY KASER Associate Travel Consultant TierOne Travel #102 12220 Stony Plain Road Edmonton, AB T5N 3Y4 780-722-7418