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Things to do in Montreal

Grab a ticket to Montreal's hockey Mecca

Considered holy ground by many, the Bell Centre (www.bellcentre.ca) is home territory for Montreal's beloved hockey team, the Montreal Canadiens. Such is their popularity that every seat has been sold-out for over a decade: so book well in advance. If you can't bag one, the stadium tour and Hall of Fame are worth visiting too.

Hit the slopes for a spot of skiing

For downhill and cross-country skiing, Montreal's powder hounds are simply spoiled for choice. Mont Tremblant (tel: +1 888 738 1777; www.tremblant.ca), a two-hour drive from the city, is popular but expensive, whilst Bromont (tel: +1 866 276 6668; www.skibromont.com) offers the largest illuminated ski terrain in North America. Skiers out of season, should head north to Mont Saint Sauveur (tel: +1 450 227 4671; www.montsaintsauveur.com).

Paddle through a National Park

Surrounded by hundreds of lakes, there couldn't be a better place to take up the serene pastime of canoeing than Montreal. Oka Park, L'Anse-a-l'Orme and the Laurentians all have water access. Just south of Montreal, Parc Iles-de-Boucherville (tel: +1 800 665 6527; www.sepaq.com) has clearly marked water trails to take kayakers between islands, as well as equipment rental.

Tackle Canada's wild white waters

The Laurentian Mountains have fast-flowing, clean rivers with rapids that are ideal for white-water rafting. New World Rafting (tel: +1 800 361 5033; www.newworld.ca/en) offer rides down the Rouge River, but if paddling doesn't appeal, Rafting Montreal (tel: +1 514 7672230; www.raftingmontreal.com) tackle the Lachine Rapids in a piloted jet boat instead.

Trek to the Eastern Townships

Within Montreal, Mount Royal has peaceful paths up and around the mountain, which are ideal for ramblers looking to escape the sounds of traffic. Outside the city, both the stunning Laurentian Mountains and the Eastern Townships offer adventurous hikers the chance to lace their boots for more strenuous and scenic excursions.

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Hotel Quartier des Spectacles

Taking its name from the entertainment district where it's based, Hotel Quartier des Spectacles' exposed brickwork, hardwood floors and simple yet spaciously designed rooms makes it one of the most appealing budget options in the downtown area. Recently renovated, the four-story centennial building currently doesn't offer disabled access.

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth

Due to reopen in June 2017 following a C$140 million refurbishment project, this Montreal landmark has hosted a fair few celebrities, and was the headquarters of John and Yoko’s famous ‘bed in’. Its central location and métro link up is ideal for disoriented travellers. Services are top of the range with a beauty parlour, health club and indoor pool.

InterContinental Montreal

Opposite the Palais des Congrès convention centre and perched on the edge of Old Montreal, the InterContinental Montreal is well situated for sightseeing and is linked to a stunning atrium. Its 357 rooms and suites are well-appointed and the turret suites offer great wraparound views. For relaxation, there is a fitness centre, sauna and pool.

Hotel Le Crystal

Those in search of deluxe accommodation need look no further. Rooms are kitted out with top of the range gizmos, including flat screen tvs, super powered shower heads, espresso machines and high speed Wi-Fi. Suites range from urban to penthouse, all boasting modern-elegant surroundings, plush beds and excellent bathrooms. The hotel’s pool, spa and health centre are all also state of the art, naturally.

Château Versailles

This Agatha Christie-esque hotel is ideal for anyone looking for a quiet Montreal hotel. Converted from posh townhouses, the interior features antique fixtures, delightful rooms and an overall classy atmosphere. You won’t be able to find a better location, right in the city’s heart and at the base of Mount Royal. Pampered pooches are welcome, as are well-behaved children. In addition to the usual services, the hotel also offers hourly baby-sitting.

Hotel Le Germain

This Montreal hotel has 101 designer rooms. Everything is eye pleasing from the minimalist furniture to the low-lit hallways. If you own an iPad and appreciate nice shoes this trendy hotel should tick your boxes. Rooms are loft style and have superior cotton sheets goose down duvets and – ladies will appreciate this - Aveda bathroom products.