This destination near Montreal has majestic waterfalls and cozy cafes for the perfect day trip
If you’re craving a nature escape that doesn’t require driving hours up north, this Quebec destination offering small-town charm needs to be on your radar.
You can visit a charming day-trip spot with outdoor adventure and cozy amenities that's just a short road trip from Montreal.
Just an hour away, Rawdon is a small city known for its natural beauty and charming setting. The city is located in the Lanaudière region, offering a multitude of outdoor activities perfect for an end-of-summer getaway.
The city is home to several waterfalls that are particularly popular spots to visit on a warm day.
One of Rawdon’s biggest draws is Dorwin Falls Park, where a powerful waterfall tumbles amid a lush forest. Located on the Ouareau River, the site offers a network of hiking trails for visitors to explore, as well as multiple lookout points from which they can admire the falls.
The park also has a picnic area where you can enjoy lunch, and you can even bring your furry friend along.
If you'd rather kick back by the water, Cascades Park is a popular spot in Rawdon where you can do just that. Here, the Ouareau River cascades over rocks and bursts into a multitude of smaller waterfalls as it reaches the city. There are also a number of picnic areas set up on site where you can enjoy a bite to eat.
For some serious relaxation, you can visit the beautiful La Source Bains Nordiques spa. Tucked between a rock face and a hill in the heart of a dense forest, the La Source spa is a relaxing spot surrounded by nature.
Here, you'll find a relaxation cave, a steam bath, a dry sauna, two outdoor whirlpools, Nordic and thermal waterfalls, indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, massage therapy rooms, a bistro and more for the ultimate way to unwind.
Foodies will also find plenty to love in Rawdon. The town has a mix of cozy cafes, casual restaurants, and spots serving international cuisine.
Step into the adorable Chez Lucien, a quaint cafe where you'll find cozy settings and a whimsical backyard garden.
The cafe offers a varied coffee and beverage menu, as well as sandwiches, soups, salads, pastries, and a wide variety of gourmet desserts.
Rawdon is also home to the Montcalm ski resort, an alpine resort offering a wide range of winter and summer activities.
The resort offers something to do year-round, whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, skiing or snowshoeing.
With its waterfalls, spa escape, quaint cafes and outdoor adventure, Rawdon packs a ton of charm into a small city and makes for the perfect day trip spot from Montreal.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.
Montmorency Falls with rainbow and blue sky near Quebec City.
Train tracks by Baie Saint-Paul.