Getting Oriented

The Laurentians resort area begins 60 km (37 miles) north of Montréal. The Eastern Townships start approximately 80 km (50 miles) east of the city in a southern corner of the province. The Outaouais lies about 110 km (68 miles) to the west, bordering Ontario. All three are an easy drive from Montréal.

• The Laurentians. With its ski hills and lakes, this is sheer paradise for those looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Quaint villages, many steeped in colorful history, line the delightful countryside—all hardly a stone's throw away from the center of Montréal.
• The Outaouais. The ruggedly beautiful Outaouais is an excellent place to go camping and spot wildlife—and that's especially true of Gatineau and Parc Omega.
• The Eastern Townships. A favorite ski and sun destination for those looking to get away from it all, this is also an increasingly popular culinary tourism destination for its artisan food producers and wineries. Settled by British Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, the region's redbrick villages, charming bed-and-breakfasts, and excellent regional dining are a blend of New England and Nouvelle France.