Rugby Tours to Quebec and Ontario
Even with such gaping distances between cities it’s possible to navigate around both Quebec and Ontario with ease. Begin your exploration in the French-speaking city of Montreal (don’t worry – they speak English, too) where 7.5 hour direct flights operate from the UK. Famed for its hosting of the 1976 summer Olympics, Montreal is a cultural melting pot that’s both fascinating and enjoyable to visit. Explore the mystical downtown areas prior to experiencing the wilds of Lachine Rapids via jet boat. Check out the Olympic Stadium, Biodome and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police HQ for a tour of their facilities. Allow at least three nights to get the very best out of Montreal.
Separated by a mere 90-minute bus ride, Canada’s capital city is a short shuttle from Montreal and a natural second city to visit as part of your long haul tour. With a busy Parliament keeping the city flowing, teams can enjoy the riverside location of the downtown area with scenic views across the region. With almost everything within walking distance you’re never far from the man sights and sounds of Ottawa. A ‘must’ whilst here is the journey inland to raft the Ottawa River which features a lunchtime BBQ during the excursion.
Often thought of as Canada’s capital city, Toronto boats the highest population amongst its country’s cities and enough attractions to keep you busy from dawn till dusk during your visit. Sports fans marvel at the indoor Skydome, home to Toronto Blue Jays, where games are seemingly played all summer during the team’s frenetic season. Gain a glimpse of the region from the CN Tower, including views of St Catharines and Niagara which lies only 80 minutes’ drive away. Visit Niagara Falls as a day trip from the city where the Maid of the Mist boat takes you up close and personal to the thundering waters.
Where to stay in Quebec and Ontario?
Rugby tours to Quebec and Ontario are hosted in a variety of destinations: Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto. Here is a sample of our hand-picked accommodation that is audited to UK regulatory standards.
McGill University, Montreal
Between middle May and August our group packages utilise the excellent summer residences of this prestigious university. Choose between traditional single room lodging and 4* quality hotels to suit your needs best. As expected, McGill offers all the trappings of a North American university complex that suits sports teams’ preparation needs.
Guest facilities include free WIFI, breakfast buffet covering all dietary requirements, single and double rooms, a gym, sports complex, work area, flat screen TVs and stunning views (can vary according to chosen accommodation location).
Ottawa
Ottawa offers a number of accommodation options subject to the time of year visiting and your group’s budget. Summer groups can reside at the centrally located University of Ottawa whilst teams visiting during the spring months can choose between the Radisson, Marriott, Best Western or, our favourite, the Capital Hill Suites. Its friendly staff, competitive rates and heart-of-the-city location make this is natural choice when touring to Canada’s capital.
Toronto
Toronto, like other Canadian cities, offers a number of accommodation options subject to the time of year visiting. Summer groups can reside at Victoria University whilst teams visiting during the spring months can choose between the Holiday Inn, Westin, Delta Chelsea, Bond Place or Fairmont. Bond Place’s triple rooms are a common choice for our touring teams.
What to do in Quebec and Ontario?
Fill your free time between rugby matches exploring Canada. Some excursions in different locations that we recommend are:
- Lachine Rapids
- BioDome Springs
- Olympic Stadium
- Parliament Buildings
- CN Tower
When to visit Quebec and Ontario?
Here at MSG Tours, we understand that school term time can be super hectic so we’ve found a place where rugby season is available during the summer holidays. Season occurs from June to October, ideal for the summer break (and also, October half term).
Our Recommendations
Find out where previous groups travelled to on their rugby sports tours:
Rydal Penrhos: Rugby Tour to Tokyo, Japan
Old Illtydians RFC: Rugby tour to Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison
Coleg Gwent: Rugby Tour to Australia
View other past rugby tours here
Get in touch with us to chat about how Quebec and Ontario would make the perfect destination for your next school rugby trip or rugby team tour.