A Getaway within Québec
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You don't have to go far to experience the joys of escaping: nestled between Montréal and the city of Québec, the Mauricie and Lanaudière regions are brimming with tourist attractions that appeal to all senses. Whether you're planning a getaway with your partner, friends, or family, here are some ideas for a more responsible and sustainable getaway to the heart of Québec. Ready to slow down and enjoy?
Discover the suggested itinerary
Lanaudière
A breath of fresh air
In the Lanaudière region, the Matawinie sector offers privileged access to a bountiful natural environment. Kilometres upon kilometres of hiking trails, look-outs to admire the panorama, waterfalls, fine sandy beaches, climbing walls: this is all that adventurers will find in the four regional parks in Matawinie (Chute-à-Bull, Sept-Chutes, Lac Taureau and Forêt Ouareau). These natural spaces, in addition to the Sentier national that crosses Matawinie, are designed to preserve the surrounding ecosystems. Do the same by reducing the footprint of your passage and leaving no trace behind you.
Discovering local products
You've probably already picked apples and berries, but have you ever harvested… Nordic nuts? In Saint-Ambroise-de-Kildare, Au jardin des noix lets you pick your own Nordic hazelnuts (from the end of August to the end of September). Putting eco-responsibility at the core of its activities, the 14-hectare (35-acre) hazelnut grove leads the way in developing this crop, uncommon in Québec. In addition to picking your own fruit, the site offers immersive workshops that engage visitors and gives them free access to the orchard during its opening hours. An essential part of the itinerary!
To sleep in nature
fter a day of exploring, head to Le Gollé Goulu, which offers eco-lodges (primarily built from recycled materials), ready-to-camp sites and camping areas in Saint-Côme. The 81-hectare (200-acre) site is found over former farmland. Honouring this nourishing land, which they sought to preserve, the owners established a vast forest orchard and vegetable garden. At the height of the season, visitors can enjoy the bounty of fruits and vegetables, grown in the most local way possible. On site, you can rent non-motorized boats to sail on Goulu Pond.
Getting off the beaten track
Fall under the spell of the sled dogs at Kinadapt, a centre specializing in sled sports. Summer and winter alike, the company offers an authentic outdoor experience that delights those are more more contemplative, as well as the those into adventure. The centre is committed to adapting its activities to everyone's abilities and allows people with limited mobility to experience dog sledding. Kinadapt, which holds ecotourism certification, always ensures the well-being of the four-legged friends making up the pack.
Mauricie
Nearly 200 km of happiness
Do you know the Lac Saint-Pierre World Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-protected site that covers more than 7,000 km2? In the Mauricie region, Chemin du Lac is a beautiful gateway to the incredible ecosystems of Lac Saint-Pierre. This long-distance walking trail offers nature lovers nearly 200 km of marked trails. Are you daunted by the idea of walking such a long crossing? Take one of the sections of the trail and explore the flats, willow woods, and shores of this exceptional inland sea at your own pace.
For those with the travel bug
A well-kept secret, Parc de la rivière Batiscan offers access to Mauritian nature in all its splendour. The area, crossed by the magnificent Batiscan River, is dotted with waterfalls, rapids, and pools. Whether you're thinking of the thrill of via ferrata or the tranquillity of wade fishing, everyone will find their own rhythm in this verdant haven. Explore the hiking trails (some of which are accessible to people with reduced mobility), discover the Espace découverte and its environmental educational activities, paddle the river, or venture out on a mountain bike; here you have proof that the park offers a wide range of recreational activities. As well, why not pitch your tent and sleep in nature in a rustic cabin, a yurt, or a pod?
A region to sink your teeth into
What a wonderful way to visit a region than to slow down and savour the local cuisine, local products and specialities that are the pride of the locals! With a well-stocked travel guide, the region has no shortage of gourmet spots to discover. From microbrewery beers to cheeses, forest cuisine, maple products, wild mushrooms, artisan breads and vineyard treasures, there's plenty to keep you satisfied!
