Before you say I do, say yes to a solo getaway in Montreal

By on July 13, 2025

At Scandinave Spa in Old Montreal, you’ll enjoy pampering and “me” time. Photo: Scandinave Spa

Planning one of the most important days of your life can be stressful. With endless tasks and countless decisions to make for a picture-perfect day, it’s easy to forget about yourself and what makes you happy as the bride-to-be.

To achieve a more Zen state of mind, consider taking a pause from all the wedding-related chaos, particularly one of the biggest stressors: trying to please everyone. Every future newlywed deserves some self-love time to recharge and reconnect with the most important person in her life, herself. To that end, more and more brides-to-be are embracing a new pre-wedding trend: a holiday for one. Instead of (or in addition to) bar hopping and living it up with besties on a girls’ weekend, they’re opting for a solo getaway. And where else to enjoy some solo bliss but in Montreal?

Foxy dishes tasty libations and charcoal-grilled delights. Photo: Dominique Lafond

Discovering the city

Known as the city that never sleeps, with its diverse culinary scene and copious attractions, Montreal is also a woman’s best friend. Holidu, a leading vacation rental company, ranks Montreal the #1 safest city to visit as a solo female traveller. Any time of year, you can enjoy the plethora of events and offerings, from famous festivals to world-renowned museums and culinary establishments, in this city of joie de vivre.

Ready to indulge in some opulent pampering? The Afternoon Tea Experience at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel definitely hits the mark. Sit back, bask in the luxe setting and enjoy the royal treatment. The Foxy restaurant will also spoil you with its tasty libations, charcoal-grilled seafood and wood-fired steaks. And if you’re a foodie, Round Table Food Tours offers several specialized food tours (including a chocolate expedition, Chinatown discovery tour and original Jewish Montreal tour) that are ideal for discovering some of Montreal’s culinary gems and lesser-known eateries.

To take in some of Montreal’s beautiful sights, you can actually walk through the numerous, diverse neighbourhoods. You don’t need to venture far to fall in love with the electric vibe. If you’re looking to connect with nature, the Montreal Botanical Gardens, an oasis in the middle of the city, is a must-visit. Recognized as one of the world’s greatest botanical gardens, the 75-hectare site includes impressive greenhouses, magnificent cultural gardens and activities all year long.

After you’ve explored and spoiled yourself with delicious dishes and breathtaking views, a day of pampering at the spa is in order. And nothing says pampering like an immersive spa treatment at Scandinave Spa in Old Montreal.

The modern Le Germain hotel is an inviting place to stay, and you can enjoy brasserie-inspired offerings at its Le Boulevardier Restaurant. Photo: Germain Hôtels

Where to Stay

Thanks to the city’s wide variety of accommodations, from B&Bs to boutique inns, cosmopolitan hotels and everything in between, you’ll find the perfect spot for your dreamy escape. Since many hotels are connected directly to metro stations, shopping centres and the underground pedestrian network, your deluxe solo time will truly be carefree.

  • Le Germain Hotel: Situated in the heart of Montreal, this welcoming enclave is steps from bistros, boutiques, museums and more. Easy to spot thanks to its larger-than-life, colourful mural, this hotel has a modern vibe but provides old-school hospitality. You’ll appreciate the flexible checkout times, access to a 24-hour gym and the fine linens and toiletries. The hotel has two restaurants where you can savour something delicious:
  • Bar Flaneur is the place to indulge in delectable coffee, freshly shucked oysters and champagne. The décor is as sophisticated as the fare.
  • Le Boulevardier Restaurant, known for its brasserie inspired menu, wine list and chic vibe, is a spot where you can enjoy a memorable, gourmet meal. And if you’re looking for the ultimate in no-fuss relaxation, the hotel’s room service menu beckons.

As energetic as the city is, a stay in Montreal can also be as restful as you want it to be. With all its marvels and offerings, it is the ideal location for some well-deserved “me” time before the big day.

The afternoon tea experience at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel is a must.
Sip champagne or a signature cocktail as you lounge in high style at the Ritz-Carlton’s Palm Court.

If you go

  • VIA Rail (Ottawa to Montreal in less than 2hrs): viarail.ca
  • Le Germain Hotel: germainhotels.com
  • Afternoon Tea at the Ritz-Carlton: ritzcarlton.com
  • Garden of Lights at the Montreal Botanical Gardens: espacepourlavie.ca/en/botanical-garden
  • Foxy Restaurant: foxy.restaurant
  • Food Tour: roundtablefoodtours.com
  • Spa Scandinave: scandinave.com
  • Tourisme Montréal: mtl.org

**This article was first published in the Ottawa Wedding Magazine and was given permission to post on the author’s site.

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Here's to more 'occasions' or 'simply because' 😉

Cheers🥂

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"Cook with love always, and people will feel it" - Chef @antonyannick70

It was a pleasure and honour to witness Chef Yannick Anton from @lecordonbleuottawa receive the Chevalier de L'Ordre du Mérite Agricole. 

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 spoiled me with theirs!! 🍿 😋

Proudly Ontario-made and woman-owned, From Farm to Table Canada has debuted their limited-edition CNE Kettle Corn in collaboration with the Canadian National Exhibition @letsgototheex for the 2024 season.Their beautiful package illustrations captures the fun that we have, when at the CNE 🎢.

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This must-have snack for the summer is available until Labour Day. 

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A couple of evenings ago, I had the pleasure and honour of being invited by my alma mater, @lecordonbleuottawa to witness Chef @antonyannick70 be awarded France's L'Ordre du mérite agricole, the highest civilian honour from the embassy @franceaucanada 😃

This distinction recognizes the contributions of Chef Yannick to promote French culture in Canada and Ottawa specifically - through his work as a chef and instructor at Le Cordon Bleu Institute in Ottawa. 

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Bravo Chef!!😊
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Cheers!

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