3 regions to discover Western Québec

By pushing back the horizon and exploring the vastness of Québec, you can truly appreciate its splendour. This summer, head to Western Québec, where three neighbouring regions stand out for their grandeur, rich cultural and natural heritage. Whether you're travelling with family or friends, this wide-open-air circuit will astonish you over more than 1,000 km.

Laurentides

A mountain outing

In Tremblant, in the Laurentides, region, there’s a strong sense that every action counts in preserving the natural wealth, which many skiers, hikers, and explorers of all kinds enjoy. That is why the resort takes concrete action in all areas of its operations, from hosting events on-site to administration and mountain operations.

This commitment is paying off! In fact, Tremblant was the first company in Québec—and the very first ski resort—to reach the highest level of certification governed by ECOCERT Canada, making the destination an example to follow!

In summer, a bird's eye view from Mont-Tremblant of its colourful village and a lake with numerous boats.

The forest: accessible to everyone

Visit the Sentier des cimes Laurentides, an eco-tourism destination like none other in the country. This barrier-free trail—designed to be accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and people with reduced mobility—surrounds the Laurentian forest. Nature lovers, note that, in addition to culminating in a spectacular climb, the 3-km round-trip route is punctuated by interactive educational stations.

While visiting the site, go visit the Gourmet Sauvage bouquet. The company, founded 30 years ago, promotes the responsible—and hand-harvested—harvesting of around a hundred wild products from the boreal forest. These natural treasures are processed using traditional on-site methods in the region.

1 / 2

Abitibi-Témiscamingue

A cultural outing

In Abitibi-Témiscamingue, the former fur trading post where the Obadjiwan – Fort-Témiscamingue national historic site now stands offers an insight into Indigenous heritage. Delve into the history of the fur trade and learn more about the commercial rivalries that resulted from it.

If you're lucky, you might meet Karl Chevrier (in French only) there. This Anicinabe artist is part of the national Masters of Living Traditions program, which recognizes exceptional artists and craftspeople who have mastered a practice or technique passed down from generation to generation.

An Indigenous man gives a presentation to adult and child visitors.

An amazing beekeeping safari

In Saint-Marc-de-Figuery, embark on an extraordinary safari! Miellerie de la Grande Ourse, which practises responsible beekeeping, invites you into the fascinating world of bees with a safari in the heart of an apiary. Dare to don a beekeeping suit to handle the hive?

To recover from these intense emotions, head to the refreshment bar. With a magnificent country backdrop, taste the meads and artisanal spirits made on site while enjoying a bite to eat.

1 / 3

Outaouais

Comfortable stays

Looking for an exceptional stop for the Outaouais portion of your road trip? Near Gatineau Park, Moulin Mill Wakefield Hôtel et Spa offers bed and breakfast accommodations in an exceptional setting. The establishment is one of the region's pioneers in more sustainable tourism and holds both LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and 3-key rating from Green Key Global certifications.

In addition to offering a breathtaking view of the MacLaren Falls, La Muse restaurant has a gourmet table that showcases regional products. Electric vehicle drivers, continue your journey without hassle with the electric charging station available on site.

Good to know: oes this attraction appeal to you? A three-day itinerary to step back into the Outaouais region's past allows you to experience six activities in the region, including the Moulin Will Wakefield Hotel and Spa.

1 / 3

A rejuvenating break

Your journey into the great outdoors is coming to an end. Don’t leave Western Québec without visiting Nordik Spa Village. A proud partner of the ICI on recycle! (in French only) program, This spa in Old Chelsea is the first spa in Québec to be awarded level 2 certification. In concrete terms this means that, given the initiatives put in place, more than 200 metric tonnes of residual materials will be diverted from landfill sites each year.

Thermal experience, massage therapy, body treatments and care, floating pool: what a better end to a road trip than a moment of pure relaxation?

1 / 4

Where to sleep?

Are you more of a pitch your tent and sleep under the stars kind of person? Those who prefer to break up their journey with overnight camping can also find accommodations that aim for a more sustainable and responsible practice. More and more campsites across Québec are taking concrete actions to transform their operations into sustainable actions. Make this a selection criterion for your next vacation and, once there, take care to adopt responsible camping practices.