The Best Sugar Shack Visit Near Montreal

A view of the dining area of a local sugar shack near montreal

If there is ONE uniquely Quebecois experience that I set a countdown for the entire year, it HAS to be a day eating at a sugar shack. And nowadays when we are extremely proud of being Canadians and all the Canadian things, eh! You totally need to fill your to-do list with mouthwatering eats, maple syrup, and nostalgic charm this winter season.

A visit to a sugar shack (or cabane à sucre, as we the locals call it) is a must, and Érablière Charbonneau, just 40 minutes from Montreal, is the perfect spot to immerse yourself if you haven’t just yet. Whether you’re a foodie exploring Canada’s culinary traditions, a family seeking a delightful day out with a delish menu and outdoor activities or simply a curious visitor, this experience promises an unforgettable taste of Quebec’s sweetest delights (pinky promise).

So let me share ALL the deets and recommendations, shall we?

Getting there

Located in the scenic Mont Saint-Grégoire, Érablière Charbonneau is a short and beautiful drive from Montreal (approx. 35 to 40 minutes long). The sugar shack is surrounded by beautiful maple trees and you will feel an instant rustic charm from the moment you arrive. Whether you’re driving in from the city or are touring the Montérégie region, the location is easy to find and ideal for a quick getaway.

Bonus? There’s free parking on-site!

Address: 45, chemin du Sous-Bois, Mont Saint-Grégoire, QC

Reservations: Call 450-347-9090 to book your table (recommended)

A Foodie-Feast to Always Remember

We were so ready to loosen our belts because the entire menu at Érablière Charbonneau was simply a too-good-to-be-true type of situation. Their traditional sugar shack options brings together all the Quebecois classics served à volonté (all-you-can-eat YES!)—so you’ll leave with both your heart and stomach full.

Here’s what you can expect (insert happy tears!):

Starters: Begin with a warm bowl of soupe aux pois (pea soup) served with fresh bread, butter, cretons, beets and pickles.
Main Dishes: Feast on baked omelets, maple-glazed sausages, roast ham, crispy bacon, tender tourtière empanadas (so adorable), and maple-soaked baked beans. Every bite are paired perfectly with the sweet maple produced locally at the Erabliere Charbonneau.
Sides: Homemade pickled beets, coleslaw, and golden fried potatoes (are you still hungry?)
Desserts: Save room (I totally mean it!) for the incredible sweet ending —tarte au sucre, maple crêpes, beignets à l’érable (maple donuts), and the classic tire sur la neige (maple taffy on snow).
Drinks: Pair it all with tea, coffee, or milk included in your meal.

In a nutshell, the menu feels like a warm hug filled with childhood nostalgia during a cozy snowy morning outside the city.

Handy Tips for Planning Your Visit

To get the most out of your trip to Érablière Charbonneau, here are our handy, practical and fun tips to keep in mind before you head there:

Make a Reservation: Sugar shacks near Montreal are popular, especially during the sugaring-madness season (February to April). So, plan your visit in advance and book your spot early (we always do it).
Arrive Hungry: If there’s ONE tip you need to know before your sugar shack plan, is that you need to be hungry. With an all-you-can-eat menu, you’ll want to bring your appetite. Trust me, you won’t want to miss trying everything until the very sweet ending.
Dress for the Weather: If you plan to explore the outdoor spaces, bring comfortable shoes (do not follow my always inappropriate winter shoe selection) and dress warmly (please).
Mind the Rules: Ask where you can park strollers, if there’s a time limit at the table and notify any food allergies as soon as you get there (We informed Nico’s nuts, peanuts and legume allergies).