With an area of 35447 square kilometres, Mauricie is one of the top 5 largest regions in the province of Quebec. The three main cities are Trois-Rivières, Shawinigan and La Tuque. Several bodies of water run through the region, including the main one, the Saint-Maurice River, which runs through much of the region. The region is also bordered to the south by the St. Lawrence River. There is also Lake Saint-Pierre, which has been recognised as a UNESCO reserve since 2000. With an average of 8 inhabitants per square kilometre, let’s just say that Mauricans have plenty of room to welcome you to their beautiful region. Let’s take a look at the Mauricie and all its best places.
This article was created in collaboration with Bonjour Québec and Tourisme Mauricie as part of my role as a Bonjour Québec ambassador.
What to do and see in the Mauricie?
The Mauricie region has a phenomenal amount of things to do and places to see. One moment you can be landing on a float plane on one of the many lakes in the area, and the next moment you are being massaged to the gentle sound of the nearby river. There is something for everyone in terms of activities in the Mauricie.
Afternoon of horse riding at Le Baluchon
Whether you’ve already been horseback riding or not, this activity offered at Baluchon Éco-villégiature is a dream come true. With an experienced guide, you will ride through the absolutely seductive landscapes of the Sabot de la vierge archipelago.
Wander through the fields of Passion Lavande
During the summer season, you can walk through the beautiful fields of Passion Lavande. In July, the lavender blooms, and in August, the sunflowers bloom. This is the perfect place to take your new profile picture. You will feel like you are in the French countryside.
Outdoor massages at SPA Santé du Baluchon
After a long day exploring the region, what could be better than relaxing in the middle of nature while being massaged? This is exactly what is offered at the SPA Santé du Baluchon. You will have the opportunity to be massaged in special areas near the river or in the forest. Believe me, you will experience the ultimate relaxation.
Circuit en hélicoptère avec Hydravion Aventure
If you’re looking for an activity that will blow your mind, Hydravion Aventure is the place to be. For nearly 20 years, Alain Priem’s company has specialized in seaplane and helicopter flights. From downtown Trois-Rivières, allow about 30 minutes to get to the hydrobase located in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès. Hydravion Aventure offers several regular tours that will take you over the Saint-Maurice River and Shawinigan. For the more adventurous, opt for one of their picnic packages that will give you the chance to enjoy your meal in the most unusual places, only accessible by helicopter.
A little shopping in Mauricie
During my most recent stay in the region, I had two favourite shopping experiences: the Passion Lavande boutique and Le 507. Both offer unique products created in the region.
Passion Lavande
If you want to stock up on good-smelling products, Passion Lavande is the place to be. You will find a complete range of products for the home, skin care and even for the kitchen. All the products you will find there are based on lavender or sunflower. During my visit, I fell in love with the lavender hydrolate, a moisturizing skin care product that smells so good.
Le 507
The best accommodations in Mauricie
During my most recent stay in the region, I had the chance to try two completely different accommodations. I liked the Baluchon for all the experiences you can have right on the spot and I liked the Hôtel Oui GO! for its urban feel.
Le Baluchon Éco-villégiature
Think of the Baluchon as a resort, but with a Quebec twist. On site, you will find two restaurants where you can eat very well. You can opt for a massage in the middle of nature or go for a hike on their many trails. The place is sublime and the rooms have a very organic style that will please many people. You can spend a weekend there but I strongly suggest more than 2 days to have time to try everything on site.
Hôtel Oui GO!
For our second accommodation, we move to downtown Trois-Rivières to the Hôtel Oui GO! In terms of location, it doesn’t get much more central than this. There are a ton of excellent restaurants and all the shops nearby. The rooms are very cozy and up to date with a little touch of luxury that I loved.
Where to eat in Mauricie?
The culinary offer in the Mauricie is almost as extensive as its territory. There are a ton of excellent restaurants. Here are the ones that made an impression on me during my last stay in the region.
Éco-Café Au bout du monde
If you are planning to go to the Baluchon, you must try their lunches and dinners, which are held at the Éco-Café Au bout du monde in the main building. I loved everything I ate and found the menu to be really creative, while highlighting local products.
Le Baluchon, dining room
During my dinner at the Baluchon, I didn’t really know what to expect. It was only when I started to receive my 4 course plates that I realised I was in for a treat. Probably one of my favourite meals of 2021 and a special mention to the tomato based dessert, I had never seen that and I loved it!
Épi buvette de quartier
What a great discovery I made when I went to have dinner at Épi buvette de quartier, in the heart of downtown Trois-Rivières. Chef Simon Lemire, owner of the place, works to develop a unique and creative menu, highlighting seasonal products, with a big emphasis on vegetables. The menu, which always changes over time, is constantly accompanied by excellent privately imported wines. A place to discover now and without hesitation…!
Sea Shack au bord du lac
Back home, I took Route 138. This road, which borders the St. Lawrence River and Lake Saint-Pierre, is very picturesque. During the summer season, I highly recommend a stop at the Sea Shack au bord du lac. It is a real canteen on the waterfront, which offers, among other things, various dishes based on fish and seafood.
It’s your turn to explore the Mauricie!
For more information about the Mauricie and Quebec
Continue the discovery and enjoyment in other nearby areas
This article was created in collaboration with Bonjour Québec and Tourisme Mauricie as part of my role as a Bonjour Québec ambassador.
