A Canadian Summer Curated by the Germain Family

Hugo’s Summer Itinerary

According to Hugo, Toronto is a city best explored on foot, without too strict an itinerary, letting yourself be carried by the energy of its neighbourhoods. Queen Street, Kensington Market, and the surrounding streets invite you to wander between boutiques, cafés, and discoveries.

After a day spent strolling through the streets and exploring the city, the evening could begin with a delicious martini at the Punch bar, before continuing just a few steps away at Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. Its impressive retractable roof makes it possible to fully enjoy summer evenings, with the silhouette of the CN Tower in the background. Then, after the game, it is an easy return to Le Germain Hotel Toronto Maple Leaf Square, located nearby.

Toronto has the unique rhythm of a big city, softened by nearby Lake Ontario. For Hugo, the lake holds special meaning. It reminds him of his childhood, sailing outings, and days spent on the water, which both inspire and relax him. If the desire for an escape arises, the Niagara and Bench wine regions are never far away. There, Hugo can enjoy bike rides, tastings, good wine, and perhaps even a table to discover at Pearl Morissette.

Clarah’s Summer Itinerary

For Clarah, Calgary is experienced first through its addresses. Her itinerary begins around the table: a refined dinner at Nupo, a stop at the vibrant Charcut, or a seat at the bar at Model Milk, facing the kitchen, in this institution she particularly loves. A perfect way to step into the city’s energy.

The next day brings out a softer side of Calgary. A walk along the RiverWalk, which follows the Bow River, a picnic, then a few hours wandering through Inglewood, her favourite neighbourhood, just a short walk from Alt Calgary East Village. It is the kind of place where you browse, pause, and let the afternoon pass without watching the time.

Then, there are the mountains. In Calgary, they always seem close enough to turn an urban stay into a great adventure. Clarah would rent a car, drive toward Banff, then finally see Lake Louise and its turquoise waters, a place she has never visited before. The kind of moment that gives the whole trip its meaning.

Laurie’s Summer Itinerary

For Laurie, St. John’s feels familiar, since her sister Clarah lives there. In summer, it is a highly sought-after destination, a time when the city comes alive and the landscapes seem to reveal their full strength. She dreams of going there to fully enjoy the coast, the salty air, and the unmistakable energy of Newfoundland.

Her stay would be turned toward the ocean. From the moment she arrives at Alt Hotel St. John’s, she could enjoy a breathtaking view of the harbour before setting out to explore one of Canada’s most beautiful coastlines. Her days would be shaped by cod and squid fishing, a few sections of the 300 kilometre East Coast Trail, then outings offshore to observe whales and seabirds, and cliffs seen from the water from an entirely different angle.

After her days in the fresh air, Laurie would return to the city to sit down at Terre, where the richness of the sea and the land take centre stage, or at Rabble, appreciated for its rustic charm. To extend the experience, she might treat herself to a night or two at The Cape, about an hour from St. John’s. A way to stay just a little longer in Newfoundland’s raw beauty before getting back on the road.

Marie Pier’s Summer Itinerary

For Marie Pier and her family, summer in Ottawa begins the moment they arrive. First, there is the bright, accessible, and thoughtfully designed airport, followed by Alt Hotel Ottawa Airport, located nearby and perfect for watching planes land and take off. Already, the trip takes on a gentle, almost contemplative feel.

Once in the city, Ottawa reveals itself at its own pace. Marie Pier likes to alternate between cultural discoveries and time spent outdoors: a visit to the National Gallery of Canada, one of the country’s most important museums, a run along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then dinner at Norca, where local cuisine is showcased in a warm and elegant atmosphere. The next day, she would head to Gatineau Park, a vast natural area located just minutes from downtown. What she appreciates about the capital is how easily it moves from culture to fresh air, from architecture to trails, without ever making you feel like you have to choose.

And because Ottawa remains Canada’s capital, a visit to Parliament is a must. A chance to revisit these historic places, where ideas meet, clash, and come to life. A stay that feels accessible, lively, and inspiring.