Lac Maskinongé is astonishing in its sheer size. There are hiking trails, gourmet stops and places to stay all around this 10 km2 lake.
Here's our suggested itinerary to discover the Lac Maskinongé area over a few days.
DAY 1
Lac Maskinongé is 20 km in circumference, so it's obvious that its shores are full of interesting water sports! The beach at Saint-Gabriel is stunning. It's the ideal place for a picnic and a swim. Its fine sand is reminiscent of warmer climates and makes for a good time with family and friends. You can also rent watercraft for fun on the water, such as pedal boats, windsurfers, canoes, kayaks and rowboats.
Not far away, in Mandeville, the lesser known Sentiers du Lac en Coeur offer several kilometers of forest hiking. These medium-difficulty trails invite hikers to discover different vantage points. You can choose to start your first day of hiking and finish at the beach, or enjoy the tranquility of the beach in the morning before exploring the surrounding trails.
DAY 2
On this second day in the Lac Maskinongé region, we head out on the trails of the Chutes du Calvaire Regional Park. Hikers can cover a distance of 4 km, passing by viewpoints and places to observe the Lanaudière forest. Dogs are allowed on all trails and access is completely free.
After the forest walk, it's off to the Spa Natur'Eau in Mandeville. It offers a thermal experience with jacuzzis and a cold bath. Dry and wet saunas and relaxation areas help visitors unwind. The views of the surrounding mountains are particularly spectacular from the terrace and facilities. Stop by the bistro for a bite to eat before starting a new cycle of relaxation. You can also indulge in a massage or beauty treatment from our professional therapists.
It's the ideal experience for couples or friends, but did you know that Spa Natur'eau also offers family afternoons on Sunday mornings? From 10 am to 1:30 pm, children are welcome every Sunday of the year. It's a great way to introduce the whole family to these relaxing moments. Domaine Natur'Eau's accommodations, including chalets, mini-homes and pods, allow you to sleep on site.
DAY 3
The Lac Maskinongé area is also full of gourmet discoveries. We suggest a tour of local producers where you'll make some delicious finds. The Enracinés nursery offers a garden center where you will find everything you need: vegetable seedlings, plants and flowers grown ecologically and sustainably, both in the fields and in the greenhouses. The Jardins du Grand-Portage offer blooming paths where English and Oriental gardens cross your way. You'll spend a pleasant moment admiring the flowers and the layout of these gardens.
Finally, the Vignoble Saint-Gabriel is a must. Make an appointment to visit the impressive cellar and spend a pleasant moment tasting its products on the terrace. Don't forget to visit the antique tractor museum before you leave. There are 4.5 km of hiking trails near the winery.
ACCOMMODATION SUGGESTIONS IN THE MASKINONGÉ LAKE AREA
- Domaine Natur'Eau
- La Cache du Lac
- Camping La Baie
- Chalets Beausoleil
- Viochalets
- Chêne et Capucine
- Domaine Aubergerond
- Le McLaren chalet spa
- Le Nerbert
WHERE TO EAT AT LAKE MASKINONGÉ AND ITS SURROUNDINGS
NOT TO BE MISSED THIS SUMMER IN THE ENVIRONMENT OF LAKE MASKINONGÉ
- Musical Fridays | July 11, August 8 and 22 and September 5, 2025
- Table Champêtre | August 2025 (date to be announced)
While you're in the Lac Maskinongé region, take advantage of the panoramic mountain gourmet circuit. This Goûtez Lanaudière tour will give you the opportunity to make many gourmet discoveries.
To find out all about the Lac Maskinongé outdoor destination and discover all there is to visit, go to the destination page.
