As we embark on my six-day Quebec road trip adventure, the breathtaking Laurentides region is our first stop. This vast expanse of natural beauty covers an impressive 22,000 square kilometers and has a way of captivating your senses like never before. If you know me, you’re well aware that I have a deep affection for spending time in nature, taking it all in, and reveling in the simple joys it provides.The Laurentians did not disappoint, offering a plethora of scenic wonders that are sure to captivate even the most discerning traveler. Whether it’s hiking through majestic mountains, savoring local cuisine, or exploring the region on two wheels via scooter tours, there’s something for everyone here. And I’m not just talking about 87 things – I’m talking about a wealth of experiences that will leave you smitten with this enchanting region.This girls’ trip, which I had the pleasure of sharing with Krystle, Isabelle, Brooke, and Julia, took us on a journey through three distinct regions of Quebec: Laurentides, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and Outaouais. Special thanks go out to Braedin, who joined us to capture some stunning photos along the way.Quebec is home to 21 unique regions, each with its own distinct character. From the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the province of Ontario, from the Arctic Ocean to the United States, Quebec is a vast and varied province that has something for everyone. I’ve had the privilege of exploring other regions in the past, including Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean and Côte-Nord (Quebec Maritime), which you can read about HERE.
The Laurentians – Our Route
As we arrived in Montreal, our adventure took a scenic turn northwest, where we spent about 1.5 hours driving to the picturesque Laurentian Region. This charming destination was our home base for the next leg of our journey.
A quick glance at the map below will give you a sense of our route and the highlights that made this trip so unforgettable. For an even more immersive experience, be sure to check out my vlog, where I share behind-the-scenes moments from our travels.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your own Laurentian escapades, I’ve included some of the region’s top attractions and activities below.
Camping du Domaine Lausanne
Our first stop upon arrival was Camping du Domaine Lausanne, situated in Ste-Agathe-des-Monts within the picturesque Laurentian region. This camping site offers a range of traditional camp options alongside 75 ready-to-camp units, including cabins, floating cabins, boreal tents, teepees, yurts, and even cozy bubbles. We opted for a floating cabin, which featured a bunk bed and a double bed. All you need to bring is your sleeping bags and food, as everything else is taken care of.
Parc National du Mont-Tremblant
Mont-Tremblant National Park, located in the province of Québec, boasts a unique distinction as both the largest and oldest protected area in the region. This natural wonder sprawls across six majestic rivers, 400 shimmering lakes and streams, making it an unparalleled haven for adventure seekers. As we explored this enchanting realm during our visit, we discovered a plethora of hiking trails that left us awestruck.
Hike – La Corniche
La Corniche, a leisurely 3.1-kilometer hike, offers breathtaking views of Lac Monroe from its lookout platform. The scenery is particularly stunning during autumn, with the changing leaves painting a picturesque backdrop against the serene lake. I look forward to returning in the fall and capturing the vibrant colours on camera.
Hike – La Chute du Diable
Nestled within Parc National du Mont-Tremblant lies La Chute du Diable, a 1.4-kilometer trail offering an accessible and scenic journey to a breathtaking waterfall. This leisurely walk is an ideal pit stop on a road trip, allowing travelers to stretch their legs and rejuvenate amidst nature’s splendor. As one of four waterfalls in the park, La Chute du Diable presents a unique opportunity for adventure-seekers to explore and connect with the great outdoors.
Lunch at Hôtel Mont-Tremblant
During our stop at Au Coin Resto-Pub within Hôtel Mont-Tremblant, built in 1902, we indulged in a satisfying lunch. The menu presented a plethora of options, each dish sounding delectable. I opted for the vegetarian burger, modifying it to accommodate my gluten intolerance by requesting no bun. A photo of Krystle’s Tuna Niçoise salad, which appeared irresistible, is included.
Géo-Explora Electric Scooters
After lunch, our excitement wasn’t over yet! We embarked on a scooter adventure with Géo-Explora, where we got to ride three-wheeled scooters specifically designed for beginners like us. The experience was made even more enjoyable thanks to the comprehensive lesson on how to operate these sleek vehicles. And then, with safety always top of mind (#SafetyFirst), we hit the road, equipped with an iPad and GPS technology that took us on a thrilling tour of the town. As we rode along, we were tasked with completing a scavenger hunt, stopping at various points to answer questions and test our knowledge. The combination of adventure, education, and friendly competition made for an unforgettable experience.
Les Toits du Monde
For the adventurous traveler seeking a one-of-a-kind experience, consider Les Toits du Monde in Nominingue, Quebec. This unique property offers several rustic accommodation options that are sure to thrill. Choose from yurts, teepees, treehouses or even a hobbit home, all carefully crafted by the property’s owners. Each option is ready for occupation, requiring only your sleeping bag and provisions. While you may need to hike your belongings up to 10 minutes, the property offers wagons available for rent. For more unusual places to stay in Quebec, check out my other blog post.
Hike – Rocher Capitaine
Rocher Capitaine, affectionately known as Captain Rock, is a brief yet invigorating hike nestled near Les Toits du Monde. The trek culminates in a breathtaking panorama of Nominingue Small Lake, an attraction I’m eager to revisit during autumn to behold the vibrant hues. This stunning Laruentides region exceeded my expectations, quenching my thirst for adventure and solidifying the Laurentians’ special place in my heart. As I immersed myself in nature’s splendor, I found solace in the simple act of being surrounded by its majesty. It was as if the great outdoors offered a sanctuary from life’s hustle and bustle, allowing me to unwind and recharge. I couldn’t wait to share the remainder of my journey with you, showcasing more of Quebec’s breathtaking beauty. Stay tuned for future posts!