Skiing, sliding, skating and outings are great, but going back to work even more tired would be beside the point. It's a vacation, so like nature in dormancy, try to take it easy. Cozy evenings at home, with or without guests, are perfect for relaxing and that doesn't mean they're boring. We have a few ideas and their pairings, of course.

Home spa and sparkling wine

If you don't have the budget for a professional treatment, nor the desire to get there, it is entirely possible to pamper yourself at home. And there is no shortage of products to do so. Facial mask, bubble bath and pedicure become even more glamorous with a glass of this Reserva de la Familia Brut Nature cava by Juvé y Camps. Fine and beautifully complex, it’s a must thanks to its affordable price and almost-perfect customer rating.

A fort and a frosty cocktail

If visiting the legendary ice hotel isn’t in the cards, you can have fun building a snow-covered structure in your backyard, and escape there in the evening with your partner/friends, string lights and a cool cocktail. Fill your shaker with the mix required for an Cosmo Amandine, crafted with a Quebec vodka, and park it in the snow to fill the naturally-chilled glasses.

Living-room camping and a movie

You know the moment when the movie is over and you have to drag yourself to bed with no energy? We say: nope. Settle in with blankets, sleeping bags, and drag your mattress to the living room if necessary: ​​tonight it’s all about comfort and delicious laziness. To devour all the seasons of White Lotus or In Memoriam, we suggest another bubbly (you're on vacation!) because it's amazing with plain chips and popcorn. Bernard Massard signs this 100% Chardonnay Brut cuvée with a fine bubble and a round texture. Employees and customers love it.

No-cook dinner: Local cheese and charcuterie platter

Oh, the joy of not having to cook; that’s a treat too. Gather local cheeses and charcuteries (we have amazing Quebec options for both), some nuts, dried fruits, olives and voilà: dinner is served. It's ideal after a day of winter sports, paired to an excellent wine like Les P'tits Tannants or Vin de Soif, two Origine Québec wines from our selection of light reds to served chilled, which lend themselves wonderfully to this type of "cooking". Now you’re ready to snack and chat all night long.

MTL en Lumière and the SAQ bistro

To tame urban winter, there’s nothing like this festival which takes the city by storm, day and night, and makes you see it in a different light. Nuit Blanche, shows, installations and outdoor activities… it’s like nowhere and nothing else! We may be biased, but the SAQ bistro is a must-stop. In the heart of the Place des Festivals, stop by and say hello for a bite to eat and a drink from a vast selection of wines, spirits and cocktails. Oh, and insider tip: Inspire members get 15% off food.

With these wine and cocktail suggestions, all that's left is to dress accordingly and enjoy your vacation. Happy spring break!