Coniferous forests as far as the eye can see, snow-covered ski mountains and an endless amount of lakes and rivers to navigate are exactly what come to mind when I close my eyes and dream of the Laurentians. The region is a popular destination for those looking to get away from the city and enjoy the great outdoors. Located north of Montreal, in the heart of nature, the region is known for its beautiful scenery and numerous activities to enjoy with family and friends in all seasons. Whether you enjoy water sports, outdoor adventures or gastronomic experiences, your stay in this magnificent territory will be unforgettable! In fact, my most recent stay in the region was a combination of food and adventure, here are all the experiences that caught my attention, don’t forget to take notes for your next getaway!
This article was created in collaboration with Bonjour Québec and Tourisme Laurentides as part of my role as a Bonjour Québec ambassador.
Fly over the Laurentian in a helicopter with Héli-Tremblant
We’re off to a great start in the Laurentians. As a first activity in the region, I suggest you book a flight over the region with Héli-Tremblant. With this exceptional activity, you will have the opportunity to fly over a part of the Laurentians and witness its size and beauty. According to Sophie, our pilot, the best value package is the Tour. This 30-minute tour will take you over approximately 90 kilometres from the air. If you wish to take photos during the flight, I strongly recommend wearing dark clothing, which will reduce the possibility of unwanted reflections in your photos. The company also offers other flight packages in combination with other popular activities in the area such as the Nordic spas.
Relax in one of the Laurentian spas that are known for their beautiful surroundings and quality services
The Laurentians are home to a large number of high-end spas offering world-class services and facilities. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with an atmosphere that will put you at ease and allow you to relax. Your spa experience begins the moment you enter the building and find yourself surrounded by soothing music and calming scents. The staff will do everything possible to ensure that your time with them is enjoyable!
Spa treatments can be found all over the world, but few can rival those offered here in the mountains of Quebec: from Swedish massage to deep tissue; facials using natural ingredients; seaweed wraps; aromatherapy baths where essential oils are added for their skin or body health benefits; water therapies including hot and cold bath circuits.
All this relaxation might make you hungry, which is why many of these places offer you to eat directly on the spot.
Spas to try in the Laurentians
Where to eat and drink well in the Laurentians?
To start off your culinary journey in the region, I highly recommend a breakfast at Au Petit Poucet. A true institution in Val-David and the Laurentians, this restaurant offers a typically Quebecois menu served in a cozy chalet atmosphere. Several elements of each dish are made on site, notably their maple wood smoked ham which has made their reputation over the years. In addition to their wide variety of delicious breakfasts, you can enjoy Quebec dishes such as pig’s foot stew and tourtière. Those with a sweet tooth will be delighted to learn that it is possible to order a Sugar Shack meal at Au Petit Poucet, year round. In short, there are a ton of good reasons to stop at this restaurant during your stay in the Laurentians.
Make the most of your lunch at La Sandwicherie du Mont-Tremblant. On site, you’ll find several take-out meals, a wide variety of sandwiches and many local products to enjoy without moderation. Nearby, discover the Domaine Saint-Bernard, a natural area where you can eat your lunch to the sound of birds.
For dinner, the Italian-inspired cuisine of Vieux Four de Mont-Tremblant will charm many. The specialty of the house is the wood oven pizza, but the menu is full of a variety of other dishes that will please the whole table. Special mention should be made of the fried squid, which was simply succulent.
To drink good coffee around here, I have two places to recommend. The first is Kohi coffee roasters, which is located in Prévost, a town just outside of St-Jérôme. There, with the help of the barista, you can choose your beans and your preferred brewing method. Personally, I fell in love with their Mustefa coffee, a juicy Ethiopian that is perfect for manual brewing.
Coffee and outdoor enthusiasts, I suggest you take a look at Olodge – Café Plein Air. The place is quite charming and the imposing green La Marzocco espresso machine offers an impressive sight upon arrival. I opted for an espresso tonic, which was delicious, while Mary loved her matcha latte, which she described as one of the best she’s had.
Where to sleep in the Laurentians?
There are several types of accommodation available in the region to spend the night. Of course, you will find several international chains in the region, but I strongly recommend that you try accommodation that is unique to the region, in order to live a totally typical Laurentian experience.
First of all, I would like to introduce you to Gîte Les Conifères, which proved to be an instant favourite for me and my friend Mary who accompanied me. This project is the result of several years of effort by Catherine, a public relations professional who has been in the business for over 20 years. With all her years of experience in the world of communications, she has developed parallel strengths and skills that apply very well to the world of hospitality. Located in Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard, this bed and breakfast has everything to please. The main building, a Canadian house dating from 1839, houses the 3 rooms available at the moment. There are also two other pavilions: a family pavilion that you can rent for privacy with your friends or family, and the refectory, where you can have a drink while admiring the waterfalls and cook in the common areas. To get the full experience, add a breakfast to your stay and enjoy the outdoor terrace overlooking the river — I guarantee you that the scones made on site will make you want to book your next stay, immediately.
If you prefer a more classic type of accommodation, I recommend AX Hôtel Mont-Tremblant. You will find modern facilities, spacious rooms and a superb heated pool with a view of the surrounding mountains.
Continue your discovery and fun in other regions near the Laurentians
- Want to find out more about the region? Read my article about my visit to the Lower Laurentians
- Lanaudière
- Outaouais
- Montréal
This article was created in collaboration with Bonjour Québec and Tourisme Laurentides as part of my role as a Bonjour Québec ambassador.
