Planning a holiday in Canada's largest province begs one question -- where to begin? Quebec features 1,450,680 square kilometres of natural beauty and a veritable feast for the senses, including the all-important sense of fun. Here are four distinct regions the whole family will love:
Laurentides
(or Laurentians -- about 100 km north of Montreal)
Montreal cottagers speak of a drive to the Laurentians as simply "going up north." They don't drone on about the sweet air, pristine lakes and breathtaking vistas. Perhaps most don't know that this mountain chain and its foothills are among the most beautiful in the province and possibly the world.
Things to do
During the summer, drop by the quaint town of Val-David as it hosts the largest pottery show in North America.
If you have a passion for outdoor sports, grab your hiking boots, rollerblades or bikes and hit the 200-kilometre-long linear park trail -- previously the path of "Le Petit Train du Nord" -- or take the plunge into canoeing or kayaking. For guided tours, visit www.pause-plein-air.com.
If a winter vacation is what you have in mind, don't miss Mont Tremblant. Practice your cross-country skiing or tackle as many of the 94 downhill trails as you dare (all levels of expertise). In the evening, your rosy-cheeked kiddies will burst into song as they jingle bells on a one-horse open sleigh. Other activities include ice-skating and snowshoeing (rentals and lessons available). Mom and Dad can chill at a spa while the kids are being taught the safety rules and latest techniques of skiing or snowboarding. Accommodations are available at all price levels.
Charlevoix
(350 km from Montreal or 123 km from Quebec City)
The Traversée du Charlevoix is not for sissies -- it's recommended for intermediate- to expert-level skiers and hikers and experienced cyclists. Here is an adventure to challenge even the most experienced sportsperson. Imagine a seven-day, six-night trek across 100 kilometres of rugged terrain, with accommodations in log cabins (daily distance of 15-20 kilometres). Food is delivered each day. For more information visit www.charlevoix.net.
Out on the water, cool breezes provide welcome relief from the summer heat. Rendez-Vous Charlevoix is a sailing school for the whole family. Located in the heart of the region, in Pointe-au-Pic, they offer five-day courses Monday to Friday or weekend one-day courses so newbies can get their feet wet, so to speak. Everyone must work together at this team sport to get the desired results. Younger family members can get a taste of being the boss by taking their turn at the tiller.
"Thar she blows, matey!" The Charlevoix is renowned for its whale-watching cruises, too -- a thrill for everyone. Visit www.croisieresaml.com or www.baleines.ca.
Photography by J.F. Bergeron
Image courtesy of Tourisme Québec
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