Holiday magic on the South Shore
For the past few years, I’ve been proud to call the South Shore of Montréal my home. Living in Longueuil, I used to (wrongly!) think that all the action took place across the bridge in the big, exciting city. But at the dawn of 2024, I’ve decided to reconsider my stereotypes and explore the South Shore thanks to exo and its extensive bus network that meets all my travelling needs!
🎄 Chambly Christmas Market
During the holiday season, many towns on the South Shore turn into winter wonderlands with their own Christmas markets, showcasing local artisans and countless gift ideas. So I decided to kick off my discovery tour in Chambly, where a quaint Christmas market is open for its very first year under the big top at the Parc des Ateliers until December 16.
Address: Parc des Ateliers, via Bourgogne Av.
How to get there: lines 104 et 105
The Chambly Christmas Market is not only an excellent place to find one-of-a-kind, handmade presents, it’s also an inviting experience that reflects the welcoming spirit of the local community. As I explored the booths, I found unique artisanal creations and local delicacies to add a touch of magic to my holidays.
🎄 🎄 The Fort Chambly
But my (re)discovery of Chambly didn’t end there! Nearby is Fort Chambly National Historic Site, a place loaded with history where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll on the neighbouring locks. Did you know? The Chemin de Chambly, the road that begins at the banks of the St. Lawrence River in Longueuil, which I happen to use daily, and ends in Chambly, is one of the earliest roads built in Canada! It’s a bit of trivia I love to share with people whenever we drive on it.
Address: 2, Richelieu Street, Chambly
How to get there: lines 104, 105, 485,
🎄🎄🎄 La Prairie Candy Shop
Like most people, the holidays are for me a perfect occasion to revive my inner child. Feeling nostalgic, I visited Old La Prairie, a town much closer to Montréal, where you can find this little gem called Chez Bonbons comme autrefois, an old-style candy store with extravagant, vintage and authentic decor and shelves filled with colourful sweets. It’s like being in an old movie!
Address: 163, chemin de Saint-Jean, La Prairie
How to get there: lines 650, 651, 140
Of course, celebrating the holidays on the South Shore isn’t just about visiting Christmas markets and historical sites, it’s also the opportunity to discover enchanting places and immerse yourself in a cozy, festive atmosphere that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of Montréal. My decision to dispel the false belief that all the action’s in Montréal has only just begun, and I can’t wait to discover more surprising places on the South Shore with exo! Sign up for the exo newsletter to get all my exclusive content.
