22,000 square kilometres of territory, comprising some 83 towns as well as 9,000 lakes and streams located amid a mountain range that is part of the Canadian Shield, one of the earth’s oldest geologic formations: welcome to the Laurentians region in Quebec. If the Laurentians sparked the interest of over two million visitors in 2010, it is not only because of its beautiful landscapes; it is also thanks to the countless exciting activities and attractions that highlight the territory’s potential year round.
A Convenient Location
The Laurentians region, since it is located just north of Quebec’s metropolis, is the perfect spot for Montrealers wishing to escape the city for a weekend and find some peace of mind. They need only to get in their Subaru Forester and make a short drive north… and there they are, in the middle of an enchanting region that offers them the quietness, the beauties of nature and the effortless comfort they cannot really find on the island of Montreal.
But Quebecois in general – not only Montrealers – see the Laurentians as a perfect destination for outdoor sports and relaxation, just like many Canadians from other provinces, some 100,000 Americans every year and an ever-increasing number of tourists from Europe and Asia. All these people contribute to the dynamism of this region whose economy heavily relies on tourism: year after year, visitors bring in close to one billion dollars.
This popularity is not a surprise. The plains, valleys, hills, mountains, lakes and forests of maple and pine offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, wildlife observation, skiing, sailing and camping. The Laurentians region is even home to Canada’s longest linear park, Le P’tit Train du Nord, spanning 230 kilometres of beautiful trails. But nature is not the only attraction in the Laurentians. Local food and alcohol producers, resorts and entertainment are also part of the Laurentians magic. Actually, there is a little bit of everything… for every kind of visitor!
National Parks
The Laurentians region is home to two of Quebec’s national parks: the Parc national du Mont-Tremblant and the Parc national d’Oka. If the former is located in the northern part of the region, the latter is located at the extreme south of it, on the northern shore the Ottawa River. Apart from the many winter sports activities that can be performed on its territory, the Parc national d’Oka features a famous trail, the Calvaire d’Oka, along which four oratories and three chapels. The top of the trail offers a breathtaking view of the Lac des Deux Montagnes and of New York’s Adirondacks.
As to the Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, it comprises some 1,500 square kilometres of land and includes about 400 lakes and streams. Around 40 mammal species – including the wolf – occupy the territory, making it particularly attractive to wildlife lovers and photographers. Winter activities such as snowshoeing, back-country skiing, snow walking and cross-country skiing are all available there.
Downhill Skiing
The region is home to one of Quebec’s top ski resorts, namely, Mont-Tremblant. The mountain is located just steps away from a picturesque pedestrian village filled with quality boutiques, restaurants, hotels and bars. A casino was added in 2008. There is absolutely no doubt that Mont-Tremblant represents one of the most complete settings for skiers who also like to take some time off the slopes relaxing, dining out and having fun.
The Laurentians region is also noted for its numerous local producers. In fact, “Chemin du Terroir” brings tourists along a circuit where artisans and creators take pride in making among Quebec’s best wines, ciders, meads, honeys, cheeses, maple products and more. The Dieu du Ciel brewery and pub definitely is a must-do: there, some 20 world-class beers are made, including the Rosée d’hibiscus, a sublime wheat beer brewed with hibiscus flowers that give it a pinkish colour and pleasant fruity taste.
Anyone that wishes to take some time away from the city and experience a place where countless activities mixing sports, culture, food, nature and entertainment should head to the Laurentians. Perfect for couples, families and groups of friends, the Laurentians region has been charming millions of people on a yearly basis.
Will you be the next person to feel love at first sight for this incredible Quebecois region?
Photo Credits
Parc national du Mont-Tremblant – by Steve Deschenes © Sépaq
Prévost train station – Wikipedia Creative Commons
Mont Tremblant – Wikipedia Creative Commons
Canadian Shield (thumbnail) – Wikipedia Creative Commons
Guest Author Bio
Alexandre Duval
Alexandre Duval is a freelance blogger writing about various topics, including travel. He has lived in and visited the United States, English Canada as well as Europe, and he is currently completing his master’s degree in political science at the University of Quebec in Montreal.
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