hinterhouse, a cabin rental in Quebec

A Smart Cedar Cabin in the Mont-Tremblant Valley

Hinterland is a German word dating back to 1888 and meaning "the land behind," referring to the land beyond any coastal settlement or urban area. Hinterhouse, located in a densely forested hillside with sweeping views of the Mont-Tremblant Valley, shares the spirit of remoteness.

Designed by Montreal-based Ménard Dworkind, this home will strengthen your connection to nature, starting with its sustainably-harvested materials: cedar, red pine, and Douglas fir. Flanked by windows, the 930-square-foot living space provides forest views from every angle and centers around a rotating wood stove.

Seeming to emerge from the hillside itself is a sauna-as-replica of the main house – accessible via a winding staircase, carved out of the earth. Engage in the detoxifying Scandinavian spa pastime, followed by a splash of cold in the outdoor shower, and a rest in the hammock.

Speaking of restoration and cycles, the Hinter company plants 10 trees for every booking. We can't think of a more stunning base camp for exploring the regions beyond. Skiers and snowboarders will enjoy its proximity to Mont Tremblant's resort: just a 15-minute drive away.

Layout

This compact vacation rental in Quebec has two bedrooms and one bath within an open-plan living space. Sliding panels smartly hide TVs at the end of each bed, offering a unique movie-watching experience. When hidden, light, and forest views prevail. A ceiling cove surrounds the house, allowing for recessed blinds and indirect lighting. Enjoy views of the forest from the large window bathroom. This is a home that transforms based on your mood – sliding open to let in the light and views or closing entirely from the elements.

For more on hinter's remarkable vision, read our interviews, part one here, and part two here.

Around

The cabin is a 15-minute drive from Mont Tremblant and its well-known ski resort. However, proximity to other parks and trails makes it a great year-round destination. Spend the day at the 1,500-acre Domaine St Bernard, with its hiking trails, swimming, biking, cross-country skiing, and snow-shoeing. Tremblant and St Jovite have a variety of good restaurants to choose from, and the Scandinavian baths at Spa Scandinave offer a 50% discount to guests. When it's not snowing, the Mount-Tremblant resort has a race track, golf courses, ziplines, and other outdoor activities.