Lanaudière is an uncomplicated destination that I particularly enjoy when I want to enjoy the outdoors and discover a variety of activities with the kids. Whether it's to get some exercise, explore unique places, or simply have a good time with the family, there's always something to do in this region that has everything to offer.
With spring break fast approaching, I made it my mission to try out a few activities to do there with my little family. Here are my suggestions for activities you won't want to miss for a successful getaway!
SUPER GLISSADES MATHA
It's impossible to talk about Lanaudière in winter without mentioning Super Glissades Matha, an iconic destination in the region for over 40 years. I had so much fun there!
The site offers three areas:
- The family slope with 14 trails accessible to young and old alike. Personally, that's where I spent my day, as I wanted to go down the same trails over and over again! This area is even lit up in the evening.
- The adrenaline slope, which has nine ultra-fast trails with snow rafting descents that can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h! I didn't dare venture there, but it looked really fun!
- Lilou's Mini World is an area close to the chalet with inflatable games and a variety of activities for children 10 and under.
Snowshoe rentals are also available on site.
Open every day during spring break. You can reserve a 2-hour or 4-hour block of time for skiing.
HÔTEL DE LA CITÉ PERDUE
Yes, yes, I'm including accommodation in a list of activities! The Hôtel de la Cité Perdue is much more than just a place to sleep. Located in Saint-Calixte, this hotel, which opened in 2023, was designed and created to thrill children!
As soon as I arrived, I was immersed in a magical and immersive world. The decor, inspired by a mysterious city worthy of Jumanji, really transported me somewhere else... and into the warmth! The highlight? The rooms with a view of the lions! Some even overlook an enclosure where magnificent felines from the Familizoo shelter, located on the premises, live.
But what makes this place truly exceptional, in my opinion, are all the activities offered on site:
- Water slides and a swimming pool
- A truly impressive arcade
- A family-themed restaurant
Definitely one of my favorites in Lanaudière!
FAMILIZOO
The ideal activity when staying at the Hotel de la Cité Perdue? A trip to Familizoo, an animal sanctuary right next door! Here, more than 400 species of Canadian and exotic wildlife find a safe habitat.
I was quite surprised to discover that many animals we don't spontaneously associate with winter, such as camels and tigers, are very active in the snow! It's a unique experience to be able to observe them in this environment.
The Familizoo also has an important mission: to educate the public about wildlife conservation and species protection. We love it!
Open every day throughout the winter.
BLOC ACTION
Located in Mascouche, Bloc Action is a huge bouldering center, probably one of the largest I've seen in Quebec! Unlike traditional climbing, bouldering doesn't require a harness, making it an accessible (and uncomplicated!) activity for the whole family. Let's face it, it can be stressful for parents to constantly check that their children are properly secured before they start climbing... so bring on the bouldering!
The facility offers courses for all levels, whether you're an experienced climber or just want to try the sport for the first time. What makes Bloc Action even more interesting for school break, in my opinion, is its children's section! My son spent a looooot of time on the mini ninja course and the climbing walls that were a little more accessible for him.
Open every day throughout the winter.
DORWIN FALLS PARK
A quick and easy stop! Located in the heart of Rawdon, Dorwin Falls Park impresses with its 18-meter waterfall. I only had to walk a few steps to reach a viewing platform, allowing me to admire the entire site.
One of the great advantages of this park is that it only takes a short walk from the parking lot to reach the best viewpoints. I took the opportunity to stretch my legs on the trails right next to it.
Accessible at all times.
JOLIETTE ART MUSEUM
A must-see! The Joliette Art Museum is the largest museum outside of Quebec's major urban centers. It's the perfect cultural stopover for spring break, with a rich program of events for families.
During this period, the museum offers several ideas for introducing children to art in all its forms. Among the highlights is “La fabrique familiale” (The Family Factory), which invites young and old alike to create their own works of art by exploring different artistic mediums. Other immersive activities are also planned on site to offer visitors a unique experience.
Open every day during spring break.
MY FAVORITE PLACES TO ENHANCE YOUR STAY
LES BOISÉS DE LA RIVIÈRE NOIRE
For an unusual lodging experience, head to Saint-Émélie-de-l'Énergie at Les Boisés de la Rivière Noire. I stayed in a pod-style cottage that was perfect for small families, but you can also stay in large wooden yurts. We didn't have time to try them, but I hear that tubing at Les Boisés is really fun!
LES DÉLICES DE ROSA-GRILL
This Italian restaurant, located in the village of Saint-Calixte, offers comforting and delicious cuisine. Of all the dishes I tried, the polpette appetizer was my favorite! In my opinion, it's the perfect place for a nice family meal, and it's not too far from Familizoo and the Hôtel de la Cité Perdue.
LE SPOT À POUTINE
Located in the heart of Rawdon, just across from Dorwin Falls Regional Park, this restaurant is a must-visit for poutine lovers. During my visit, I had the chance to try the new poutine croquettes, which should be added to the menu soon... and they were simply delicious!
LA BINE
Located in a charming ancestral home in Old Mascouche, La Bine bakery is a must-visit for lovers of fine foods. I tried the “Le Partageux” menu, which is simply perfect for a convivial family meal. I'm still dreaming about the salmon gravlax! In addition to their tasty cuisine, La Bine offers a fine selection of regional finds in their shop, including a nice selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Lanaudière truly has something for everyone, with a wide range of family-friendly activities combining nature, culture, and relaxation. With spring break just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan a family getaway and take full advantage of everything the region has to offer. Believe me, you'll have a blast!
No matter the season, there's always a new experience to enjoy, a landscape to explore, or a favorite spot to discover in Lanaudière. And after my visit, one thing is certain: I can't wait to go back!
