Weekend Itinerary: From the Montreal Auto Show to Laurentian Outdoor Escapes

Beat the planning overwhelm: a smart, time-tested weekend that pairs the Montreal International Auto Show with a Laurentian outdoor escape

Short on time, juggling parking, EV range anxiety and last-minute bookings? This day-by-day Montreal itinerary gives you an efficient, low-stress blueprint: a morning at the Palais des congrès for the auto show, a relaxed midday transfer, and an afternoon-to-overnight nature escape in the Laurentians — with practical tips for timing, parking and where to plug in an EV in 2026.

Why this combo works in 2026

Weekend travellers and outdoor adventurers want maximum variety with minimum planning friction. Auto shows deliver inspiration — especially this year, with new electrified debuts like Volvo’s EX30 Cross Country showcased at the Palais des congrès during the Montreal International Auto Show (Jan 16–25, 2026) — while the Laurentians remain one of Quebec’s quickest routes to wide-open nature and winter-sports options.

2026 travel context: several industry shifts make this a forward-looking pairing:

• EV infrastructure in Quebec has continued expanding through late 2025 and early 2026, improving DC fast charger density on main corridors into the Laurentians.
• Event venues like the Palais des congrès continue to streamline entry flows and timed-ticket options after pandemic-era crowd management upgrades.
• Booking platforms now highlight “EV-friendly” stays and on-site charging as a standard filter — use that to secure overnight charging.

“Quebec is a key market for us as we continue to expand our electrified portfolio... The EX30 Cross Country brings together design, safety and versatility...” — Matt Girgis, Volvo Cars Canada

Quick planning checklist (before you go)

• Buy or reserve your Palais des congrès/auto show tickets in advance and check the daily schedule — larger exhibits (like Volvo’s EX30 Cross Country debut) draw crowds during midday.
• Pre-book parking near the Palais des congrès if you’re driving; alternatively use STM metro and walk to the venue to avoid downtown traffic.
• Map EV charging stops with two apps: PlugShare (community updates) and your carmaker’s route planner; add one backup charger per leg.
• Reserve an EV-friendly hotel or chalet in the Laurentians that confirms on-site Level 2 charging; for quicker top-ups, note the nearest DC fast charger.
• Plan travel windows: mornings at the show, midday lunch in Old Montreal, depart for the Laurentians between 1:30–3:00 pm to avoid commuter peaks.

Day-by-day plan: From the Palais des congrès to the Laurentians

Day 1 — Saturday: Auto show morning, scenic afternoon drive, evening in the Laurentians

Suggested timeframe: Auto show 09:30–12:30, lunch 12:30–13:30, depart 13:30–15:00, check-in 15:30–17:30.

Morning: Maximise your Palais des congrès visit

• Arrival: aim to arrive 30 minutes before opening or booked entry time. Large exhibits and electrified debuts (e.g., Volvo EX30 Cross Country) pull crowds from midday; early mornings are calmer.
• Must-see: floor plans typically list OEM zones, electrification showcases, and safety demos — focus 60–90 minutes on brands you care about, plus 30 minutes for special features.
• Timing tip: if you want manufacturer reps or configurator sessions, check the show schedule (Palais des congrès schedule is posted on the event site) and join timed demos rather than roaming.

Parking and transport alternatives for the show

Downtown parking is expensive and variable. Two practical options:

1. Take public transit: Metro + short walk eliminates parking stress and keeps your EV charged at home or hotel.
2. Drive and pre-book a garage spot: use Parkopedia or local booking services to reserve a lot near the Palais des congrès; select facilities that list EV chargers if you want to charge before leaving Montreal.

Lunch: Old Montreal and a quick top-up

After the show, cross to Old Montreal for a leisurely lunch (30–60 minutes). If you’re driving an EV and need a quick top-up before the Laurentians, plan a 30–45 minute charging stop at a downtown DC fast charger or a 60–90 minute Level 2 top-up while you eat — apps show real-time availability.

Afternoon: Drive to the Laurentians

Choose your target based on amenities and activities:

• Saint-Sauveur (closest, ~45–60 min): ideal for a short drive, boutique restaurants and groomed trails.
• Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts (mid-range, ~60–75 min): lakeside views and classic Québec villages.
• Mont-Tremblant (further, ~90–120 min): best for alpine skiing, a lively pedestrian village and more DC fast charger options.

Plan for one scheduled charging stop en route if your EPA range is under 300 km. In 2026 the corridor north of Montreal has seen more DC fast chargers added; still, reserve a buffer of 20–30% battery to avoid detours.

Evening: Check-in and an outdoor evening

Check into your hotel or chalet, confirm the EV charger access and cord type, and head out for a sunset walk, an easy snowshoe loop, or a dinner in the village. For remote chalets, reserve a Level 2 destination charger in advance — many properties allocate a single plug per guest.

Day 2 — Sunday: Full outdoor day, scenic return

Suggested timeframe: morning activity 08:00–12:00, lunch 12:00–13:00, afternoon return 13:00–16:00.

Morning activities by season

• Winter (Jan–Mar): alpine skiing, cross-country loops, fat biking or guided snowshoe tours. Arrive early to secure trail passes and rental gear.
• Shoulder season (Apr–May): ice-out hikes and fewer crowds; check trail conditions and driving routes for spring run-off.
• Summer–Fall (Jun–Oct): mountain biking, kayaking, lakeside relaxation; fall foliage weekends are popular — book ahead.

Charging strategy for the return

Before you leave the Laurentians, do a “top-and-go” at a local DC fast charger if you have a long return or a tight evening schedule. Otherwise, a moderate Level 2 top-up at your accommodation will get you home comfortably if you left with a 20–30% buffer when departing the city.

Afternoon: Scenic return to Montreal

Plan to depart between 13:00–15:00 to avoid bands of late-afternoon traffic entering the city. If you want one last stop, Sainte-Thérèse or Saint-Jérôme towns have cafés and chargers on main routes; map real-time availability before you leave.

Detailed EV charging guidance (practical & current for 2026)

EV charging has improved but planning still pays. Here’s a concise strategy that works for most EVs in 2026.

Networks to know

• FLO — Canada’s large public network with many Level 2 and DC fast chargers across Quebec and the Laurentians.
• Tesla Superchargers — many sites are open to non-Tesla vehicles via adapter/plug compatibility in 2025–26 rollouts; check Tesla’s app for access rules.
• Municipal and private DC fast chargers — found in tourist hubs like Mont-Tremblant, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts and Saint-Sauveur; reliability varies so always identify a backup.

How to charge like a pro

1. Pre-map chargers along A-15 and the 117/117B corridors meaningfully before departure; add one backup charger 10–20 minutes off-route.
2. Prioritise DC fast charging when your window is tight — 20–40 minutes to regain 40–80% battery depending on charger speed and vehicle.
3. For overnight stays, reserve a Level 2 charger at your lodging to wake up with a full battery — don’t assume walk-up availability.
4. Account for winter range loss: battery capacity can drop 10–30% in sub-zero temperatures; plan for slightly more charging time and buffer range.

Estimate charging times (rule of thumb)

• Level 2 (7–11 kW): ~4–12 hours for a full charge (useful overnight).
• DC fast (50–150+ kW): ~20–45 minutes for 20–80% depending on vehicle and charger capability.

Parking and Palais des congrès schedule & logistics

The Palais des congrès hosts large conventions and auto shows; updated scheduling and crowd-control measures post-2022 mean organisers are more likely to publish timed-entry blocks for busy days. Follow these tips:

• Check the Palais des congrès schedule and the auto show’s daily timetable before you go — special demos (e.g., electrified vehicle reveals) run on fixed timetables and attract media and extended queues.
• For parking, pre-book when possible. If you plan to charge in Montreal before leaving, filter garages for EV availability and confirm plug types with the operator.
• If you’re using public transit, the metro + walking route is often faster than driving at peak times; bring layered clothing if transferring between warm indoor exhibits and chilly outdoor settings.

Accommodation: what to book and how to confirm EV access

2026 booking platforms highlight EV amenities — use filters and then call the property to double-check charger access and any fees. When you enquire, ask:

• Type of charger (Level 2 or DC), connector type and maximum kW.
• Is the charger reserved for guests, shared, or on a first-come basis?
• Any additional costs or required adapters.

Packing & safety checklist for this weekend

• EV essentials: charger cable, adapters (if your car needs them), access cards/apps for your planned networks.
• Cold-weather kit if visiting in winter: microspikes, thermal layers, insulated water bottle and de-icer for cables.
• Paper copies or screenshots of charging locations and confirmations (apps can misbehave in low-signal areas).
• Tickets, proof of booking for the Palais des congrès and any rental equipment or guided activities.

Local tips and micro-itineraries by destination

Saint-Sauveur — quick, close and cosy

• Best for boutique shopping, groomed cross-country, and short drive time from Montreal.
• Charging: several Level 2 chargers in town; one DC fast charger on the main route makes it an easy top-up stop.

Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts — lake views and classic Quebecois charm

• Choose quiet lakeside trails or rent a canoe in summer. Winter brings easy snowshoe loops.
• Charging: mix of municipal and private chargers; confirm availability before relying on a single location.

Mont-Tremblant — for a more resort-style weekend

• Best for alpine skiing, a lively pedestrian village and a wider choice of restaurants and après options.
• Charging: stronger DC fast charger presence — good for a fast midday top-up or a pre-return charge.

What to expect at the auto show in 2026

Auto shows in 2026 are increasingly EV-forward. Expect dedicated electrification zones, interactive safety demonstrations and more manufacturer-configurator sessions. If you’re specifically chasing electrified models or the latest safety tech, check the exhibitor list and schedule sessions early in the day to avoid crowds.

Final actionable takeaways

• Book early — tickets, parking and lodgings with EV charging move fast for popular weekend dates.
• Charge smart — plan one DC fast stop when heading north and secure an overnight Level 2 charger at your stay.
• Time your drive — leave Montreal after lunch (1:30–3:00 pm) to beat peak city-to-suburb flows.
• Pack for variability — winter range loss and rural charger availability require redundancy: two chargers mapped, one reservation confirmed.

Ready to plan?

Use the Palais des congrès schedule to pick your auto show day, then book a Laurentian stay that confirms EV access. If you want a ready-made pack, download our weekend checklist and an editable Google Maps route (EV-friendly) — or let us tailor a weekend itinerary based on your EV model, range and activity preferences.

Call to action: Reserve your auto show tickets, then click through to book an EV-friendly Laurentian stay — or contact our local trip planners to lock everything in for your next weekend escape.

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