Whether you’re visiting from Europe for the first time or looking to get away for a week, we’re sharing our Laurentides road trip—the perfect way to experience true Quebec freedom. Get comfortable behind the wheel of your van, brew some coffee on the stove, and let us guide you through this unique 5-day itinerary in the heart of the Canadian outdoors!
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Your Step-by-Step Road Trip Itinerary Through the Laurentides in a Van
Saint-Sauveur
Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes from Montreal
We’ll kick off our road trip through the Laurentians on a relaxed note with our first stop, just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Montreal! Head to Saint-Sauveur, a small village known for its charm and lively atmosphere all year round. You can stroll through downtown and enjoy the main street with its shops and restaurants.
In the late afternoon, you can head to the famous Le P’tit Train du Nord linear park. This former railroad track, converted into a multi-use trail, runs through the entire region. A short walk at sunset will give you a great preview of the scenery to come.
Val-David
Travel time: 25 min
Head to Val-David, a true favorite among travelers seeking authenticity. This village, with its laid-back atmosphere, is a haven for artisans, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the heart of the village, visit the small art galleries, and soak up the local creative energy.
For some physical activity, rent a bike or put on your walking shoes to explore a new stretch of the P’tit Train du Nord between Val-David and the surrounding stations. The scenery there is particularly enchanting, winding along small, calm rivers that are perfect for contemplation.
Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts
Travel time: 14 min
Today, your journey takes you to new heights. Head back toward Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts for a lovely stroll through its historic downtown, which offers a breathtaking view of the magnificent Lac des Sables.
The activity we recommend for this stage is a little further on: the Laurentides Tree-Top Trail.
This spectacular treetop trail takes you to the treetops via a wooden walkway that blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings. At the end of the trail stands a 40-meter-high observation tower. From up there, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the mountains and forests of the Laurentians.
🎢 Activity idea: Tyroparc in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts
Literally soar above the treetops as you cross Quebec’s highest mega-zipline! The park also offers via ferrata and hiking trails for all skill levels. Be sure to book your adventure by phone at least 48 hours in advance. And if you’re traveling with Le Baroudeur, you’ll enjoy a 15% discount on your activities, plus a free overnight parking spot on-site to park your van after your adrenaline-filled day!
Nominingue
Travel time: 1h04
We’re now entering the wilder part of the Laurentians. Park your van near Grand Lac Nominingue and treat yourself to a swim in waters renowned as some of the purest in Quebec! If you’re traveling in the middle of summer, take advantage of the municipal beach for a picnic break or rent a kayak to explore the lake at your own pace.
This is also where you’ll find one of the most beautiful sections of the P’tit Train du Nord trail. With its untamed natural beauty and surrounded by wetlands, this stretch is ideal for observing local wildlife, especially great blue herons and beavers, which become active at dusk.
Where to stay? Relax at the beautiful Camping Union Chutes-aux-Iroquois (located nearby in Labelle, just outside Nominingue). Don’t forget your Le Baroudeur perk: you’ll enjoy a 15% discount on your campsite (no reservation required—first come, first served!). This offer is valid at all Camping Union campgrounds in Quebec!
Ferme-Neuve
Travel time: 1h18
We head north toward Ferme-Neuve. The landscape becomes increasingly boreal and wild. This is the gateway to Montagne du Diable Regional Park, a vast preserved area that overlooks the region. Spend the afternoon settling in, exploring the wooden cabins in the visitor village, and taking a short introductory walk along the streams. If you have a sweet tooth, make a detour to Miels d’Anicet to learn about local beekeeping and pick up some honey or mead to take home.
The Montagne du Diable Regional Park
Travel time: 15 min
Pack your backpack—it’s going to be your biggest day of hiking yet! Perched on the second-highest peak in the Laurentians (783 meters), this park offers trails for all skill levels.
Don’t miss: the walk across the magnificent suspension bridge that leads to the panoramic viewpoints, including the summit of Mount Sir Wilfrid.
The Poisson Blanc Regional Park
Travel time: 1h40
This vast reservoir, dotted with dozens of wild islands, is an absolute paradise for canoeing in the Laurentians. You don’t have to spend the night there to appreciate its magic! The best option is to plan a full-day excursion: leave your van safely at the visitor center, rent a canoe or kayak right there on site, and set out to paddle on crystal-clear waters. You can pull up to a deserted beach for a picnic, explore the cliffs of Île de la Main, or simply go for a swim in complete tranquility, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Omega Park and Back to Montreal
Travel time: about 2 hours to the park, then 1 hour and 15 minutes back to Montreal.
All good things must come to an end! On this final day of your road trip, start your journey back south toward Montebello to visit the famous Parc Omega. This wildlife park, unique in Quebec, is the perfect stop to wrap up your adventure on a high note.
Here, you’ll drive your van along a route stretching several kilometers through vast wilderness where wild animals roam in semi-freedom. It’s the perfect opportunity to get an up-close look at moose, elk, bison, wolves, and more… A true immersion in Canadian wildlife that’s sure to amaze travelers. After this magical break, leisurely head east again to return your vehicle in Montreal, with a light heart and a head full of memories.
If you’d like, you can view and download our Laurentides road trip itinerary directly from our interactive map!
Ready to rent a van and explore Quebec?
To make this dream a reality, check out our campervans available for rent from Montreal and Quebec City, designed specifically to offer you optimal comfort in the great outdoors. The Laurentians are waiting for you, so hit the road!
