10 summer outdoor activities for a screen detox

Summer 2020 is far from ordinary, but we have plenty of ideas to make the most of it while also respecting the new health and hygiene guidelines. Although warm weather is upon us, too much screen time remains a serious problem in our current situation. Here are 10 suggestions for outdoor activities to help make the most of summer and reduce screen time! Festivals or no festivals, we bet that the most memorable activities will involve quality time in nature.

1. Hiking

What better way to get some fresh air than hiking? Much to everyone's delight, Sépaq's parks have announced that they are opening for the summer season! This is a great opportunity to escape, get moving as a family and observe our beautiful province’s rich biodiversity. Just be sure to check that the area you are planning to visit is open for business.

2. An evening at home on the terrace

Recreate the atmosphere of your favourite restaurant...at home! Arrange your terrace so that it is worthy of Pinterest: cushions, tablecloth, pretty cutlery, tinsel lights, plants... Classified ads and Facebook Marketplace are full of great deals and low-cost options to decorate your terrace. Then prepare a playlist for the evening and don't forget to plan your food and wine pairings, cocktails or drinks. All you have to do is order your meal from your favourite restaurant!

3. Picnic 2.0

How do you see your friends while also respecting social distancing? A picnic in the park...at a 2-meter distance, of course! Bring one blanket per household, your own glasses and cutlery, and make sure to prepare individual portions to avoid sharing food. Guaranteed fun!

4. Chalet or camping

Are your travel plans canceled? Not all is lost! You are now allowed to rent accommodations and cottages or reserve a camping space in Quebec! To respect social distancing guidelines, make sure you rent the entire unit, one family unit at a time. Make sure to inquire before booking!

5. Van road trip

For a unique out-of-town stay, several local companies offer customized van trips throughout Quebec. You'll have access to a fully equipped van and an itinerary prepared for you, along with useful addresses and suggestions of places to park for the night!

6. Water sports

Try some water sports this summer! As canoeing and kayaking are among the activities authorized by the Quebec Government, you can rent boats without a problem. For more adventurous types, it will also be possible to go canoe-camping! Looking for a nautical activity to do with your kids? Au Canot Volant offers a short 6 km canoe trip with a seek and find game.

Did you know that you can also go paddleboarding in some of Sépaq's parks? Make sure the park you select offers this activity and reserve ahead of time.

7. Local shopping

Shops with an outside entrance are now open and other stores are slowly reopening. When you go out shopping on a sunny day, consider encouraging small local shops in your neighbourhood. Le Panier Bleu, an initiative of the Quebec Government, is a website listing all local businesses. Explore it for inspiration and discover a host of local businesses. Always remember to bring your mask and antiseptic gel for a safe shopping experience. 

8. Staying active outdoors

No gym? No problem. Now is a great opportunity to discover new outdoor sports! Singles tennis, track and field, running, biking, rollerblading, yoga in the park, open water swimming... All you have to do is get outside and move!

9. Artist for a day

Have you ever tried to draw or paint your environment? What's great about this activity is that it can be done alone, with family or friends. Get your notebook and pencils, choose your landscape, be it a street, a monument or even a person, and get to work! Whether you're a beginner or a genuine artist, it’s an easy way to stimulate your creativity without using your electronic devices. 

10. Play tourist

While it is common to spend your days walking to discover a city when travelling, we rarely recreate the experience in our hometown. Streets, alleyways, parks, monuments, urban art ... whether by bike or on foot, play tourist in your city and consider stopping for a moment to capture all its beauty. Many audio guided tours are also available for history lovers. For example, people living in or visiting Montreal this summer should check out these two apps: MTL en Histoires or Portrait Sonore.