Two hours of driving, and the world changes format. Highway 20 is Quebec’s most honest circuit: no spectacular turns, but steady progress toward something worthwhile.

THE DEPARTURE: 7:30 AM FROM MONTREAL

Take the A-20 East. The sun rises on your right. Past Drummondville, the river starts to make its presence felt without yet showing itself. Adjust the pressure of your mental tires. You have two hours ahead of you.

THE ARRIVAL: PETIT-CHAMPLAIN AS THE FINISH LINE

Head down to the Lower Town. The funicular or the Casse-Cou stairs take you directly into the neighborhood. Carrera Café is on the left. The coffee is hot. The terrace, weather permitting, overlooks Boulevard Champlain. It's the podium of your day.

WHY THIS ITINERARY WORKS

Because it has a clear purpose. Not a vague outing, a real circuit. Departure at a fixed time, pit stop at Petit-Champlain, return in the evening with the image of Château Frontenac seen from below in mind. That's enough to make Monday morning start differently.