Western Quebec’s cities have a wide variety of attractions to fill just about any visitor’s travel itinerary, no matter how you like to spend your vacations.
Head to Val‑d’Or and Rouyn-Noranda for the biggest selection of world-class museums, architectural landmarks and local art galleries that will leave you feeling enlightened and inspired. Or, if outdoor activities are more your thing, then venture further afield for a visit to the region’s beautiful Aiguebelle National Park, which offers a range of views, walks and activities to suit any traveler.
A trip to Refuge Pageau has to be at the top of the list for any animal lover visiting Western Quebec.
The independent rehabilitation centre offers shelter to animals and releases them back into the wild once they’ve fully recovered. From bears and moose to wolves and otters, a tour of this local refuge will bring you closer to Canadian wildlife than ever before.
Step back in time and journey through Western Quebec’s golden history at La Cité De l‘Or (‘The City of Gold’).
Book an interactive tour of the famous Bourlamaque mining village and you can experience what it was like to mine for gold way back in the early 20th century.
But don’t stop there. Pick up a hard hat and take a trip underground to the gold mine itself where kids (and adults alike!) will be in awe of the dark, endless tunnels. Or stay above ground and head inside an authentic recreation of a miner’s home.
The VOART Exhibition Centre is a great way of exploring Western Quebec through a more creative lens. From aboriginal art to retrospectives of video game culture, their varied exhibition schedule means you’re sure to find something that interests you. So whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out or a lone-traveller with an eye for the creative, this local art centre is a definite must-see.
Aiguebelle National Park is one of Western Quebec’s most beautiful nature spots, and for good reason. The park is filled with uncrowded trails, serene lakes and scenic viewpoints that are almost unrivalled across the province.
Described as the ‘jewel of the Abitibi-Temiscamingue Region,’ the Aiguebelle National Park is renowned for its hiking, fishing and kayaking opportunities.
Take your pick from a relaxing walk with breathtaking views or an action-packed adventure in the great outdoors. And remember to keep an eye out for moose, beavers and minks.
*Images courtesy of Photo-Corporation des événements de Trois-Rivières
Enjoy live entertainment at Trois-Rivières’s massive outdoor event venue, Amphithéâtre Cogeco. Situated right along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, enjoy world-class performances from famous musicians like Bryan Adams and Boy George as well as musical theatre and exhibitions from Cirque du Soleil. Visit the indoor cabaret for dancing and intimate musical performances.
*Images courtesy of Loto Quebec
Recently re-opened, Salon de jeux de Trois-Rivières is one of Quebec’s largest and best casinos featuring slot machines, roulette, and a variety of electronic games as well as Blackjack, Three-Card Poker, and Baccarat. Visit the Hippodrome to experience pulse-pounding horse racing or enjoy live entertainment from some of Quebec’s best musical acts. Relax and enjoy a drink at the onsite bar, Le Bar Ludo.