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The Laurentians, or Laurentides, are a region of rounded, forested mountains and countless lakes stretching north of Montreal. Among the oldest mountain ranges on Earth, worn low by time and glaciers, they became a playground for Montrealers once railways and roads made the lakes and ski hills easy to reach.
Mont-Tremblant Resort is the region's best-known destination, with its pedestrian village at the base of the slopes, the summit gondola and Lac Tremblant below. Mont-Tremblant National Park protects a much wilder landscape of lakes, rivers and trails. Le P'tit Train du Nord, a former rail line turned cycling and ski trail, runs through the region from Saint-Jérôme northward. Closer to the city, Saint-Sauveur combines ski hills with shopping and restaurants, Sainte-Adèle and Mont Gabriel offer more slopes and resorts, and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is known for cruises on Lac des Sables. To the southwest, Oka has a provincial park with a beach and the long-established monastic cheese tradition.
The Laurentians suit families, skiers, cyclists and couples, from day trips to week-long stays. Winter is high season for the ski areas, while summer brings lake swimming and cycling. Fall color is a major draw. Harrington's Buddhist monastery offers a peaceful detour.
WiserMap travel guideLaurentians Quebec Mont-Tremblant and Maple TaffyExplore the Laurentians in Quebec, from the Mont-Tremblant resort and national park to lakeside towns, rail-trail rides, Oka cheese and maple taffy.Read the guide
The cathedral of Saint-Jérôme, gateway to the Laurentians, a large Romanesque and Byzantine-style church from around 1900 facing a park and the old town square. Its interior has rich paintings and stained glass. Visit outside Mass times, then walk to the riverside promenade along the Rivière du Nord.
A former Trappist abbey in Oka, founded in the late 19th century, known for its stone buildings, gardens and the Oka cheese first made by the monks. The monks have left, but the site remains a heritage and cultural space with a shop selling local products. Walk the gardens and visit the chapel.
A Vietnamese Buddhist monastery in the hills of Harrington, set in forest with temples, statues of the Buddha and peaceful walking paths. Visitors are welcome to walk the grounds respectfully, especially during open days. Dress modestly, keep quiet and check visiting times before you go.
A regional park between Val-David and Val-Morin with granite cliffs popular for rock climbing, plus hiking, snowshoe and cross-country ski trails through the hills. Lookouts give views of the villages and the Rivière du Nord valley. Climbers should bring their own gear or hire a local guide.
A park on the Lake of Two Mountains at the southern edge of the Laurentians, known for its long sandy beach, campground and the Calvaire d'Oka trail to historic chapels with views over the lake. It is very popular on hot summer days. Arrive early, and rent a kayak or paddleboard on site.
A regional park in Saint-Jérôme and Prévost along the Rivière du Nord, with forest trails, picnic areas and the Wilson Falls on the river, plus ruins of an old paper mill. It is a quick escape from the city. Walk the trail to the falls and continue along the river; in winter there is cross-country skiing.
A contemporary art museum in Saint-Jérôme, set in the former courthouse next to the cathedral, with changing exhibitions of Quebec artists and educational activities. Admission is often free. Combine it with a visit to the cathedral and a walk in the old center of Saint-Jérôme.
A lively Laurentian town about an hour from Montreal, with boutiques, restaurants and cafes on its main street and a ski hill with night skiing beside the village. In summer the mountain becomes a water park. Come for an evening stroll and dinner on Rue Principale, especially busy on weekends.
A Laurentian town set around Lac Rond, with restaurants, theatres and the Mont Gabriel ski area nearby. The lakeside and village center are pleasant in all seasons. Rent a pedal boat on the lake in summer, or ski Mont Gabriel in winter, then dine at one of the town's long-established restaurants.
An artistic village known for its craft studios, summer market and ceramics, and for its granite cliffs, a favourite spot for rock climbing in Quebec. Le P'tit Train du Nord trail runs through the village. Visit on a Saturday for the market, then walk the trails of the regional park around the cliffs.
A town on the shore of Lac des Sables, with a public beach, lakeside park and boat cruises that show the grand old summer houses around the lake. Its main street has shops and restaurants. Take the lake cruise in summer, then swim at the beach or walk the lakeside promenade.
A summer Christmas village in Val-David where children can meet Santa Claus in his summer home, with farm animals, play areas, a pool and games. It is aimed at young children. Bring swimwear and a picnic, and check the opening season, as it operates mainly in summer and around the holidays.
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