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 area around Lake Maskinongé is also brimming with culinary discoveries to be made. We invite you to take a tour of local producers where you’ll find some delicious treasures. The Enracinés nursery features a garden center where you can find everything you need: vegetable seedlings, plants, and flowers grown using eco-friendly and sustainable methods, both in the fields and in greenhouses. The Jardins du Grand-Portage feature flower-lined trails where you’ll encounter gardens ranging from English to Oriental styles. You’ll have a lovely time admiring the flowers and the layout of these gardens.
In the heart of the Lanaudière forest, the Sentiers Brandon invite you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with nature. The 27 km of marked trails feature lookouts, rest stops, and resting areas so you can fully enjoy the moment. It’s the perfect place to gently escape, observe wildlife, and savor the beauty of the landscapes. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the trails await you.
Finally, the Vignoble Saint-Gabriel is a must-see. Make an appointment to tour the impressive wine cellar and spend a pleasant moment tasting their products on the terrace. Don’t forget to stop by the antique tractor museum before you leave. Hiking trails let you explore 4.5 km around the vineyard.
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 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 17–August 28, 2026
- Table Champêtre | 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.
