Lanaudière-Mauricie or How to Slow Down the Pace Between Montreal and Quebec City

A stop in Les Moulins to travel back in time and savour the gentle urban vibe of Lanaudière-Mauricie

Les Moulins is the name of the regional county municipality (RCM) that includes the cities of Mascouche and Terrebonne. Terrebonne, the most populous city in Lanaudière, reveals a remarkably well-preserved historic centre that’s full of charm and lively energy, a delightful place to explore. Take the time to immerse yourself in Quebec’s history as you explore the heritage buildings of Vieux-Terrebonne, without missing out on a visit to Île-des-Moulins. This site was at the heart of the development of one of the province’s most powerful seigneuries. Five restored buildings, two permanent exhibitions, and several captivating guided tours await. Maison Bélisle is another landmark in Terrebonne’s historic district. Built in 1759, it’s the oldest building here, and the exhibition “L’histoire avec un grand… T” shines a light on the cultural roots of the region. Over in Vieux-Mascouche, you’ll find even more points of interest, including the oldest parish in the Les Moulins RCM. One great tip for getting to know these two historic neighbourhoods? Use the free Balado Découverte app to follow the circuits “The Tale of Vieux-Terrebonne” and “À la découverte du Mascouche d’autrefois” (only in French). Wander at your own pace through these storied streets while learning plenty of facts and anecdotes about the events and people who shaped this area over time. Once you’ve satisfied your curiosity, it’s time to enjoy all the charms of Les Moulins and unwind! Whether you opt for a picnic break in a park or garden, a riverside walk along the Thousand Islands River, a bit of shopping, a cozy café, an excellent meal, or cultural events and venues – come summer, Les Moulins buzzes with a blend of laid-back living and vibrant energy. It’s one of those destinations in Lanaudière–Mauricie that radiates a peaceful urban spirit, rich with character. Slow living, yet never a dull moment!

Escaping to the Lanaudière backcountry for a break from the world and gourmet delights

From Terrebonne or Mascouche, it’s an easy trip to Repentigny, where you can pick up the Chemin du Roy (Route 138) – an historic road that pairs scenic Saint Lawrence River views with a glimpse into the past. Leave North America’s first carriageway (built in the 18th century) near Lavaltrie, and head north via Route 131. Our destination is a place that once again invites us to slow down and fully enjoy the charms of Lanaudière: the Auberge de la Montagne Coupée inn in St-Jean-de-Matha. Overlooking lovely wooded hillsides, this resort is all about relaxation. There’s a choice of cottages, pavilions or rooms and suites at the inn, each offering spacious, tranquil, and cozy comfort. Easing into a slower pace is a given at Auberge de la Montagne Coupée, where the natural surroundings are only part of the serenity: there’s also an indoor pool with nature views, as well as a top-notch health spa – don’t miss the NeuroSpa sessions or the extensive massage and body treatment menu. Another major perk is the outstanding cuisine: creative and progressive, with a focus on local and seasonal produce, the fare here makes Auberge de la Montagne Coupée one of the top gourmet experiences in the region.

While you’re already enjoying Lanaudière’s flavours, don’t pass up the chance to stop by the Magasin de l’Abbaye Val Notre-Dame store in St-Jean-de-Matha. Fill your basket with sweet treats made on site by the monks: caramels, chocolates, cakes, pickles, jams, syrups and forest-derived delicacies alongside other local products from the region.

The grass is always greener in Lanaudière

In Lanaudière, slowing down also means taking the time to enjoy your favourite outdoor activities in an enchanting natural setting. If you’re a golf enthusiast, or looking to give the game a try, you can’t miss Golf Matha. This renowned golf club appeals to beginners and pros alike with a course that blends beautifully into the mountainside and is dotted with numerous water features. Beyond the fun of playing 18 holes surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, Golf Matha also tells a chapter of the region’s history. It was created in 1972 by Roland Salvas, whose grandson Jonathan now leads the club. The Salvas name is well known here: the family also owns the Super Glissades, Bistro Matha and the Auberge Matha inn: all-season fun, great dining and restful nights just an hour from Montreal!

And if you’re drawn to greener pastures, the innovative concept developed by BESIDE Habitat in Rawdon is a must. Stay in sleek, minimalist-yet-bold cabins tucked deep in the forest, explore the hiking trails, and cool off in the lakes throughout this 360-hectare domain dedicated to conservation.

Also hidden in the woods, Les Boisés de la Rivière Noire is another way to truly unplug without sacrificing comfort. In Ste-Émélie-de-l’Énergie, near the Parc régional des Sept-Chutes regional park, twelve cottages await guests who want to immerse themselves in the lush landscapes of the Matawanie region. Think Robinson Crusoe, but with a full kitchen and private spa!

Head for the Haute-Mauricie region for the ultimate boreal getaway!

In Lanaudière-Mauricie, the power of the forest to soothe the soul seems boundless. After exploring Lanaudière’s woods, discovering Haute-Mauricie only reinforces that sense of being somewhere far removed. Route 155 follows the Saint-Maurice River northward to La Tuque, a town that perfectly reflects how closely humans and nature live together in Haute-Mauricie. To pause and pick up on the pulse of life in the great outdoors, we recommend a stopover at Parc des Chutes-de-la-Petite-Rivière-Bostonnais. Within easy reach of downtown and popular with families who come here for walks or picnics, this destination, famed for its imposing waterfall and forest trails, isn’t just a nature lover’s paradise. You’ll also find several cultural and interpretation centres focusing on topics woven into La Tuque and Haute-Mauricie’s history: nature and wildlife, navigating the St. Maurice River, the fur trade and an illustrious local figure: Félix Leclerc. Knowledgeable guide-animators are on hand to bring it all to life. La Tuque also offers an opportunity to learn about the aboriginal culture of the Atikamekw people, the first inhabitants of the region, thanks to the Atisoko discovery tour, which means “tell me” in Atikamekw.

Naturally, the focus is on how the opulent boreal wilderness and its resources have nurtured humans here for millennia. In Haute-Mauricie, this heritage of thick forests, landforms, lakes and waterways is a true jewel for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers of all kinds: hiking, wildlife watching, camping, canoeing and all manner of water sports. It’s no surprise that some of Quebec’s most prestigious outfitters and ecotourism resorts have made their nests in the Haute-Mauricie region. In fact, we have a few unbeatable recommendations for getting away from it all…

Four favourites for immersing yourself in Haute-Mauricie’s forest life

The charm of a historic outfitter whose origins date back to the 19th century, the pleasures of an exceptional resort nestled in unspoiled nature where you can experience tons of adventure… welcome to La Seigneurie du Triton Outfitter! The place is legendary: Roosevelt, Truman, Churchill and the Rockfeller family all stayed in this club founded in 1893. In the early 20th century, the Triton Fish and Game Club drew the world’s elite for unforgettable hunting and fishing trips across a massive wilderness marked by 200 lakes. Today, La Seigneurie du Triton invites us to enjoy its protected area of over 400 km², while choosing the perfect home base: a room or suite in the venerable Club House, Le Triton’s main lodge (the only way to reach the outfitter is via a boat crossing), a room in one of the estate’s two other lodges, or the rental of a cottage all to yourself, with family or friends… Meals here feature the chef’s gourmet creations (including freshly caught trout) and you’ll soak in the endless vistas of a supersized natural paradise, recharging in countless ways. Hiking, lounging, swimming, fishing and all kinds of water sports are all on the agenda, as well as wildlife interpretation, mushroom trapping and observation, in the company of experienced guides.

The Pourvoirie du Lac Oscar (Oscar Lake Outfitter), another ultimate plan for letting yourself be lulled by the great outdoors of the Haute-Mauricie region, awaits its guests, this time west of La Tuque, in the warmth of its eighteen cottages, all set on the shores of a lake or the Blanc reservoir. In addition to fishing and outdoor activities, the Farrar family’s outfitter has thought of us urbanites in search of Zen with a “Meditation, Breathwork and Qi Gong” package. We love it!

Between our two favourite outfitters lies a place that takes harmony with nature even further. On the banks of the Croche River, Méandre Haute-Mauricie is the perfect ecotourism destination for gentle adventures in an exceptional environment (river descents, forest walks, biking…) and for indulging in the art of glamping in innovatively designed eco-accommodations such as micro-cabins or Cocodomes.

Heading south again, a final stop near Trois-Rives leads us to one more place where nature rewards us tenfold for treating it with respect. At Les Versants de la Falaise, you can stay in awe-inspiring geodesic domes for two to four guests, well away from any stress. Each dome has its own Scandinavian bath, a barrel-style sauna and an outdoor firepit.

Unforgettable Mauricie stopovers on the way down to the St. Lawrence River…

After exploring the forest realm, it’s time to follow the St. Maurice River into the lively heart of the Mauricie region. On the way, attractions and surprises vie for our attention. For example, if you’re a fan of western culture, rodeos, country music and dancing, and if you’re lucky enough to be in the area between September 5 and 14, 2025, you won’t want to miss the Festival Western de St-Tite. Admittedly, you do need to be okay with big crowds (nearly 600,000 visitors over ten days in a village of 4,000 inhabitants!), but the crowd is so fun, welcoming and ready to dance, that you’ll quickly be won over by the infectious atmosphere and the quality of the FWST shows.

If you want a quieter but equally family-friendly experience, the Labyrinthe Coureur des Bois in St-Mathieu-du-Parc is a great original stop near the spectacular La Mauricie National Park. Wandering through this huge cedar maze is not only a playful adventure; you’ll also be in direct contact with nature and local history. We especially love how this attraction educates all ages about environmental stewardship (on site you’ll also find a café-terrace, mini farm, hiking trails and a rental cottage, among others).

You’ll then be a stone’s throw from Shawinigan, the perfect for a literal energy rush. Beyond its fascinating facilities and exhibitions, its Science Centre, observation tower, and immersive activities, the famed Cité de l’énergie museum complex is a must-see for diving into Shawi’s history. This includes a city tour and a historical cruise on the Saint-Maurice River.

Between Shawinigan and Trois-Rivières, the river is anything but done showing off. In fact, it calls us to take to the skies for an unforgettable view of the Mauricie region. Head for Saint-Étienne-des-Grès, home to the Hydravion Aventure seaplane base. Managed by former French Army pilot Alain Priem, this company offers thrilling flights aboard its Cessna 206, Cessna 180 and Daher Kodiak floatplanes. In addition to scenic flights – a real “wow” over Parc national de la Mauricie – and seaplane transfers to your favourite forest lodge or outfitter, Hydravion Aventure also offers mouth-watering gourmet flights. From an appetizer at sunset to a gourmet meal in the wild by chef Fred Chappuis (Fredélys), a picnic on a wild beach or a meal in a renowned inn… in just a few wingbeats, Alain Priem’s planes whisk you to extraordinary spots to indulge in fine dining. It’s worth noting that the Hydravion Aventure base also features accommodations in charming accommodations along the river.

Riverside Mauricie: A picture-perfect finale of nature and adventure

Drawing closer to the St. Lawrence River, we come to the final leg of our summer tour, all about escaping the daily grind and returning to our roots. If you’re still craving thrills, head for Parc de la Rivière Batiscan east of Trois-Rivières. Spanning 400 hectares of wooded terrain split by the spirited Batiscan River, this impressive regional park offers an adventure circuit that won’t leave anyone unmoved, from children to adults. It features a spectacular via ferrata running along the cliffside above the rushing water (which can be done at night!), zip lines that cross the river and a treetop course, not to mention a host of guided activities to learn about the surrounding nature. Putting down roots at Parc de la Rivière Batiscan is possible and even desirable, if you want to enjoy the full potential of the site and its trails, or experiment with other independent activities such as mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking or fishing. Campsites with or without services, rustic cabins and ready-to-camp accommodations are there for you!

Finally, where the river swells with pride and biodiversity to become Lac Saint-Pierre, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, our ultimate favourite is the Domaine du Lac St-Pierre, located in Louiseville. You can stay here (camping, glamping or chalets) and, above all, enjoy a multitude of activities in contact with precious ecosystems, such as the bayou, which you can discover on a nautical safari. Canoeing, kayaking, pedal boating, rowboating, personal watercraft to explore the lake’s archipelago and even seaplanes are all available to help you get to know this area of great natural wealth. Slowing down the pace to better commune with the wonders of Lanaudière-Mauricie, this is one summer you won’t soon forget!