Family trip to Quebec: 6 days in Authentic Quebec

Day 1: Family Fun in the Trees at Arbraska Rawdon

It’s time for the long-awaited departure of our Quebec family trip! After picking up our rental car in Montreal, we head for Rawdon, the first stop on our journey.

Our afternoon is all about adventure with a visit to Arbraska Rawdon. This aerial treetop adventure park in the heart of the forest offers courses for the whole family. We choose the red course, just right for our daughter, Rose. Zip lines, suspension bridges, and tree-to-tree challenges – everything is a hit! The highlight? The Arbre-en-Ciel Village: a multicoloured paradise perched among the trees, with small huts connected by suspended walkways. It brings out the inner child in everyone.

In the evening, we arrive at our BESIDE cottage, a true haven of peace in the heart of nature, where we’ll spend the next two nights. Our family vacation in Quebec is off to a great start – we already can’t wait for tomorrow!

Day 2: Hiking and Meeting Quebec’s Bison

The morning begins gently in our chalet, bathed in the morning light streaming through the large windows. The view of the forest is breathtaking, and we soak it all in from the massive bay window facing our bed. We could have stayed here all day and enjoyed every corner of the chalet, but the trails around the lakes, located directly on the BESIDE Habitat grounds, are calling our name.

With our hiking boots on, we set off as a family to explore the surrounding area, where the autumn colors are beginning to intensify.

In the afternoon, we make our way to La Terre des Bisons, a family farm where we learn more about these impressive creatures. The interpretive trail leads through the forest to a vast plain where we spot bison and elk. Riddles along the way make the activity entertaining and educational for children. We finish the visit at the interpretation centre, which offers interactive tablets, films, and even a virtual reality experience to dive deeper into the fascinating world of bison.

On the way back, we stop by the Fromagerie Roy to stock up on local products for a gourmet fireside snack. We savour this last evening in our cozy nook: a bit of family cooking, board games and reading in the living room, plus a relaxing session in the sauna.

Day 3: Culinary and Outdoor Discoveries in Saint-Côme

Leaving our chalet Beside wasn’t easy. We felt so at home that it was almost heartbreaking to go! But new family adventures await. We head to Saint-Côme for a one-of-a-kind experience: an epicurean hike with Marcheur des Bois.

We meet Jean-Guy and Josée, two nature and gastronomy enthusiasts. Jean-Guy guides us along the trails, teaching us how to recognize edible plants and mushrooms around us. It’s fascinating to discover all the unsuspected treasures the forest holds. Meanwhile, Josée prepares a four-course feast inspired by our day’s harvest. This lunch, shared in good company, is a treat of local flavours – a gastronomic experience we won’t soon forget!

In the mid-afternoon, we hit the road to our next accommodation: l’Auberge du Lac-à-l’Eau-Claire inn. After settling into our spacious family room, we head out for a canoe trip on the lake at sunset.

We end the day on a gourmet note at the inn’s restaurant. We indulge in their delicious four-course menu from start to finish, with a special mention for the trout tasting trio, an absolute delight for the taste buds.

Day 4: Adventure at Labyrinthe Coureur des Bois and a Unique Night at Nature Nature

Today, we discover the Labyrinthe Coureur des Bois, an original, educational and fun activity for both parents and kids. We’re greeted by Charlotte Darfouine, a vibrant character from another era. Passionate about history, she tells us stories of the fur trade and the age of the coureurs des bois. It’s a slice of history we knew little about and, I must admit, I found it captivating.

After our storyteller’s fascinating introduction, we step into the shoes of a family of trappers, ready to explore a giant cedar maze. Our mission? Collect as many beaver pelts as possible before winter arrives, by way of cooperative games and strategy. We get really into it and love every moment!

At the end of the afternoon, we discover our accommodation at Nature Nature. We chose micro-refuge 18, with its giant Lite-Brite game and climbing wall to access the children’s bed. In the evening, the three of us gather in the hot tub to recap an unforgettable day.

Day 5: Immersion in Nature at Parc national de la Mauricie

Nature Nature is ideally located! The site is right at the doorstep of La Mauricie National Park. Within five minutes, we reach the Saint-Jean-des-Piles entrance.

In my opinion, this park is one of the best places in the province for families to experience quintessential Quebec landscapes. The scenic road itself is an experience, winding through a majestic hardwood forest. Just imagine the range of colours in October! We make several stops to admire the views, take pictures, and simply soak up the beauty around us.

Must-see stops in Parc national de la Mauricie

• Lac du Fou: We hoped to spot moose here, since the park guide says it’s a good place for it. Even though we didn’t see any, the lake was beautiful and the spot very peaceful.
• Lac Édouard’s Beach: This small beach is the perfect place for a family picnic.
• Le Passage lookout: It offers an impressive view of Lac Wapizagonke – my pick for the most stunning viewpoint in Parc national de la Mauricie.
• L’Île-aux-Pins lookout: Another viewpoint we loved, with a gorgeous panoramic vista.
• Les Cascades trail: A lovely forest trail leading to a cascading stream. In summer, you can cool off in the natural pools. In fall, the waterfall surrounded by changing leaves is just as enjoyable.

Day 6: Seaplane Flight and Cultural Discovery in Trois-Rivières

We wrap up our family trip through Authentic Quebec by fulfilling a dream: flying over Quebec’s fall landscapes by seaplane. Our appointment with Hydravion Aventure is at 9:45 a.m. The weather is once again on our side, promising a magical experience.

After listening carefully to the safety instructions, we board the seaplane. Our pilot is the owner himself, who spent over 15 years in the French Air Force. Take-off and landing are smooth, and the 20-minute flight over Parc national de la Mauricie and Shawinigan will forever remain a remarkable experience for the three of us. The vastness of the territory, the bright autumn colours and the sheer beauty of nature leave us utterly speechless.

In the afternoon, we visit the Musée POP in Trois-Rivières. We take part in an interactive mission to help Professor Laforest create an antidote to save the city from a mischievous squirrel. Through a fun course that includes agility games and climbing, we learn that superheroes can also be everyday figures, like scientists and athletes, who inspire us to take action.

Our road trip through Lanaudière and Mauricie ends in this charming city. These regions have given us a multitude of memorable family experiences, ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural discoveries and relaxation. We head home with our hearts full of memories and an irresistible urge to come back and explore more of this beautiful part of Quebec.

Where to Stay in Quebec with Your Family?

Here are the addresses of the accommodations we visited during our stay in Authentic Quebec:

• BESIDE Habitat Cottages in Rawdon: Offers a luxurious experience with a sauna, large bay windows and a fully equipped kitchen in an idyllic setting.
• L’Auberge du Lac-à-l’Eau-Claire Inn: Provides spacious family rooms, a gourmet restaurant and plenty of on-site family activities.
• Nature Nature: Offers eco-friendly pods with a private hot tub, just steps away from Parc national de la Mauricie.

When to Travel to Canada with Children?

Choosing the right time is key to a successful family trip to Quebec.

Ideal Period: June to September

Summer is the optimal season for a family trip to Quebec, from June to September. Mild temperatures make it easier to enjoy outdoor activities and travel with little ones.

• July-August: Perfect for exploring national parks like the stunning Parc national de la Mauricie. Temperatures range between 20 °C and 25 °C, ideal for hiking and water activities. A bonus: long summer days allow you to pack in more adventures without stress.

Alternative: Fall

Fall is also a compelling choice. The landscapes are ablaze with colour, the temperatures are mild, and prices drop significantly.

• Late September to mid-October: The best time to enjoy Quebec’s vibrant fall colours – ideal for hiking and family photo sessions.

Winter Experience: December to March

Adventurous families can also try winter from December to March. Just remember to dress children appropriately for temperatures that can dip to -20 °C. Activities like skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding and snowshoeing create unique memories.

How to Travel to Quebec?

Organizing a family vacation in Quebec requires a bit of planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.

Key Steps for a Successful Trip:

1. Book Your Flights Early: Book plane tickets about six months in advance to get the best fares to Montréal or Quebec.
2. Rent a Spacious Vehicle: Choose a vehicle that meets your family’s needs (and luggage!) for comfortable travel.
3. Obtain Your ETA: The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is mandatory for each family member before departure. Apply online.
4. Get Family Travel Insurance: Make sure it includes medical coverage, which is required to enter Canada.
5. Choose Accommodations with a Kitchen: Pick cottages or apartments so you can manage your meal budget.
6. Plan Your Itinerary in Advance: Schedule two- to three-day stops to avoid tiring the children.

Preparing for Your Family Trip to Quebec

A successful family trip to Quebec hinges on good preparation. Here are a few tips to help you get ready:

Preparation Tips:

• Pack Smart: Bring layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures, comfortable shoes for hikes in the great outdoors and insect repellent (a must in summer).
• Get the Kids Involved: Show them photos of Quebec, tell them stories about the first settlers and share videos of local wildlife. This fun approach piques their curiosity and eases their adjustment once there.
• Personal Backpack: Stocked with their favourite toys, books and snacks, it helps children feel secure during travel. Don’t forget a basic first-aid kit and any usual medications.

By following these tips, your family trip to Quebec will be an unforgettable experience, packed with discovery and shared moments of happiness. Enjoy your adventure in Authentic Quebec!