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, the 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 a 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 impress 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 seen; 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-savory twist, so simple yet truly outstanding.
Another outstanding experience was at Bazart. This sprawling complex encompasses gourmet cuisine, an open-air art gallery, an NFT gallery, and a craft market all in a Mediterranean-inspired space. It’s like a huge cocktail party as guests eat, visit, browse the 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 complement 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
#Bridal #weddingtravel #destinationwedding #honeymoon #montreal