Attractions in the Laurentians
• A WorldWeb.com Travel Guide for Laurentian Mountains, Quebec.
Rising from southern Quebec’s vast hinterlands are the majestic peaks of the Laurentian Mountains. Visitors are drawn to the dynamic beauty of region, which change with each season. In winter a thick blanket of snow covers the sleeping summits and in spring the glaciers’ melt water carves deep gorges and canyons as it flows to streams, rivers and seaways. Summer sees flowers blooming in alpine meadows and soon after the foothills are flaming with the turning colours of autumn.
Quaint alpine villages are bustling with sportsmen and tourists throughout the four seasons. The natural beauty of the region, as well as its rich history, contributes to the growing number of recreationists who come to explore the many historical, cultural and recreational sights and attractions in the Laurentians.
Visitors can catch a glimpse of history canoeing on the rivers and contemplating the journey First Nations people took as they traveled through the plentiful landscape, or experiencing a moment of time standing atop a peak imagining mountain men forging trails through the dense forest, or even transporting back in time in a museum and reliving the experiences of pioneers centuries ago clearing the land to build their new homes.
NATURAL SPLENDOR
Mont Raoul Blanchard stands guard over the Laurentians, protectively watching the foothills and farmlands as the landscape flows into the St. Lawrence River. Outdoor enthusiasts from relaxed recreationists to adrenaline junkies consider the Laurentians a sporting paradise. Vacationers can take on mild, switchbacking trails or challenging slopes to reach the peaks of mountains.
Equally enjoyable are the crystal blue waterways—winding rivers, still lakes and ribboning beaches—that crisscross the region. The cool waters of Saint-Maurice River speak of fur traders and loggers that settled in the area. Flowing over 500 km (300 mi) from its source in the mountains before emptying into the St. Lawrence River, this waterway is dotted with anglers, boaters and watersport enthusiasts. Wandering along the banks, watching the elusive birds fishing for the day’s best catch are just some of the ways to enjoy the tranquil beauty of Quebec.
National parks, provincial recreational areas and municipal gardens highlight the area. Mont-Tremblant National Park is a protected region crowning the vast and varied landscape. The park is best explored by canoe on one of the six great rivers or from the vantage of one of its hundreds of lakes. Likewise, La Mauricie National Park has a varied landscape and affords many recreational opportunities. Multi-use trails make the park accessible all year around and hiking, bicycling, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities along the well posted trails.
A RICH HISTORY
Historical artefacts indicate that First Nations people came to this region hundreds of years ago, presumably drawn to the rich land and waters that are teaming with nourishing plants, fish and wild game. As brave European explorers faced the harsh climate blazing new trails, the rich resources of the area were realized, and entrepreneurs began settling in the area. Hunting, trapping and eventually agriculture began contributing to a thriving local economy. Today, visitors to the Laurentians have the opportunity to explore that unique history at civic centres, museums, historic sites and interpretive centres.
Since First Nations people primarily lived in nomadic tribes, they left behind few relics. Historical journeys in the area, therefore, begin with the settlement of French pioneers and tourists can journey into the past at Manoir Boucher-de-Niverville, the oldest building in Trois-Rivieres. The original structure was built in 1649 and hundreds of years melt away as visitors step into the beautifully preserved historical home.
Once the Laurentian area was settled, fur trading, logging and farming became industries that brought wealth and prosperity to the region. The Pulp and Paper Industry Exhibition Centre in Trois-Rivieres teaches visitors about the historical importance of the pulp and paper industry, and guided tours, pictorial exhibitions and the opportunity to make paper using traditional methods make learning about the history of the region fun and interactive.
Human ingenuity has been combined with the natural landscape to create magnificent manmade structures throughout the area. The lighthouse of Pointe-des-Monts offers visitors the opportunity to explore Quebec’s maritime heritage. Guests can stay in the old lightkeeper’s house, dine on local seafood specialties in the intimate gourmet restaurant and explore the lives of indigenous people and pioneers that have inhabited the area from prehistoric times to the present day.
Highways, bridges and lookout points also emphasize the astonishing mountainscapes. Of special interest are the historic covered bridges that traverse the region’s many waterways. These include the Covered Twin Bridges near Mont-Laurier, the Pont Couvert de Saint-Placide in St-Placide-de-Charlevoix and the Ducharme Bridge in La Bostonnais, which has a picnic area closeby.
FAMILY FUN
Communities in the Laurentian Mountains are very family-oriented, affording many indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities. Families will find entertainment, activities and adventure at one of the area’s many libraries, recreation centres, movie theatres and amusement parks.
Public libraries with both French and English literature are located in the larger community of Mont Tremblant and historic archives are contained in the civic centres of all of the villages. Indoor fitness and recreation centres are ideal family destinations as they have activities to suit all age groups. Movie theatres are fun distractions on a rainy day and the latest Hollywood blockbusters are screened at Cinema du Cap in Cap-de-la-Madeleine, whereas the Cinema Laurier in Mont-Laurier features a mix of first-run movies as well as showcasing regionally made films in French.
La Cite de l'energie, known as Energy City in English, is as the name suggests, a dynamic and exciting destination for all ages in Shawinigan. Greeted with a futuristic theme, visitors can wander the grounds to see multimedia presentations, interactive exhibitions, and outdoor performances. A garden and high altitude observation deck provide a respite from the bustle of crowds. In Val Morin families can visit Les Circuits Valva, a seasonal family entertainment centre. Go cart racing, simulator rides and arcade games are stimulating activities suited to all members of the family. Village du Pere Noel is not to be missed either, especially for those with small children. This Christmas-themed park is open year around and summer activities include water jets, wading pools and playgrounds while winter activities include a petting zoo, bumper cars and visits with Chris Kringle himself.
Quaint alpine villages are bustling with sportsmen and tourists throughout the four seasons. The natural beauty of the region, as well as its rich history, contributes to the growing number of recreationists who come to explore the many historical, cultural and recreational sights and attractions in the Laurentians.
Visitors can catch a glimpse of history canoeing on the rivers and contemplating the journey First Nations people took as they traveled through the plentiful landscape, or experiencing a moment of time standing atop a peak imagining mountain men forging trails through the dense forest, or even transporting back in time in a museum and reliving the experiences of pioneers centuries ago clearing the land to build their new homes.
NATURAL SPLENDOR
Mont Raoul Blanchard stands guard over the Laurentians, protectively watching the foothills and farmlands as the landscape flows into the St. Lawrence River. Outdoor enthusiasts from relaxed recreationists to adrenaline junkies consider the Laurentians a sporting paradise. Vacationers can take on mild, switchbacking trails or challenging slopes to reach the peaks of mountains.
Equally enjoyable are the crystal blue waterways—winding rivers, still lakes and ribboning beaches—that crisscross the region. The cool waters of Saint-Maurice River speak of fur traders and loggers that settled in the area. Flowing over 500 km (300 mi) from its source in the mountains before emptying into the St. Lawrence River, this waterway is dotted with anglers, boaters and watersport enthusiasts. Wandering along the banks, watching the elusive birds fishing for the day’s best catch are just some of the ways to enjoy the tranquil beauty of Quebec.
National parks, provincial recreational areas and municipal gardens highlight the area. Mont-Tremblant National Park is a protected region crowning the vast and varied landscape. The park is best explored by canoe on one of the six great rivers or from the vantage of one of its hundreds of lakes. Likewise, La Mauricie National Park has a varied landscape and affords many recreational opportunities. Multi-use trails make the park accessible all year around and hiking, bicycling, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities along the well posted trails.
A RICH HISTORY
Historical artefacts indicate that First Nations people came to this region hundreds of years ago, presumably drawn to the rich land and waters that are teaming with nourishing plants, fish and wild game. As brave European explorers faced the harsh climate blazing new trails, the rich resources of the area were realized, and entrepreneurs began settling in the area. Hunting, trapping and eventually agriculture began contributing to a thriving local economy. Today, visitors to the Laurentians have the opportunity to explore that unique history at civic centres, museums, historic sites and interpretive centres.
Since First Nations people primarily lived in nomadic tribes, they left behind few relics. Historical journeys in the area, therefore, begin with the settlement of French pioneers and tourists can journey into the past at Manoir Boucher-de-Niverville, the oldest building in Trois-Rivieres. The original structure was built in 1649 and hundreds of years melt away as visitors step into the beautifully preserved historical home.
Once the Laurentian area was settled, fur trading, logging and farming became industries that brought wealth and prosperity to the region. The Pulp and Paper Industry Exhibition Centre in Trois-Rivieres teaches visitors about the historical importance of the pulp and paper industry, and guided tours, pictorial exhibitions and the opportunity to make paper using traditional methods make learning about the history of the region fun and interactive.
Human ingenuity has been combined with the natural landscape to create magnificent manmade structures throughout the area. The lighthouse of Pointe-des-Monts offers visitors the opportunity to explore Quebec’s maritime heritage. Guests can stay in the old lightkeeper’s house, dine on local seafood specialties in the intimate gourmet restaurant and explore the lives of indigenous people and pioneers that have inhabited the area from prehistoric times to the present day.
Highways, bridges and lookout points also emphasize the astonishing mountainscapes. Of special interest are the historic covered bridges that traverse the region’s many waterways. These include the Covered Twin Bridges near Mont-Laurier, the Pont Couvert de Saint-Placide in St-Placide-de-Charlevoix and the Ducharme Bridge in La Bostonnais, which has a picnic area closeby.
FAMILY FUN
Communities in the Laurentian Mountains are very family-oriented, affording many indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities. Families will find entertainment, activities and adventure at one of the area’s many libraries, recreation centres, movie theatres and amusement parks.
Public libraries with both French and English literature are located in the larger community of Mont Tremblant and historic archives are contained in the civic centres of all of the villages. Indoor fitness and recreation centres are ideal family destinations as they have activities to suit all age groups. Movie theatres are fun distractions on a rainy day and the latest Hollywood blockbusters are screened at Cinema du Cap in Cap-de-la-Madeleine, whereas the Cinema Laurier in Mont-Laurier features a mix of first-run movies as well as showcasing regionally made films in French.
La Cite de l'energie, known as Energy City in English, is as the name suggests, a dynamic and exciting destination for all ages in Shawinigan. Greeted with a futuristic theme, visitors can wander the grounds to see multimedia presentations, interactive exhibitions, and outdoor performances. A garden and high altitude observation deck provide a respite from the bustle of crowds. In Val Morin families can visit Les Circuits Valva, a seasonal family entertainment centre. Go cart racing, simulator rides and arcade games are stimulating activities suited to all members of the family. Village du Pere Noel is not to be missed either, especially for those with small children. This Christmas-themed park is open year around and summer activities include water jets, wading pools and playgrounds while winter activities include a petting zoo, bumper cars and visits with Chris Kringle himself.
Luxury Cabins
Travel Packages
Best Rate Guarantee
