Snowmobiling friends, you’re surely starting to think about your next snowmobile season. Well, Centre-du-Québec is THE region to visit for your next excursions on the trails. This region will amaze you, and I’ll explain why in this article.
Where is this beautiful region located?
Perfectly centred between Montréal and the city of Québec, Centre-du-Québec stretches from the southern shore of the majestic St. Lawrence River to the edges of the Appalachian Mountain range. Just three hours from the U.S. border, you can easily visit and discover this beautiful region.
Impeccable and Snowy Snowmobile Trails
With over 1,200 km of trails proudly maintained by nine clubs, you’ll discover a variety of landscapes. Snowfall generally begins at the end of December and lasts until mid-March. However, January and February are the best months for snowmobiling. You can ride through the flat trails of the St. Lawrence Valley to the more mountainous and snowy trails near the Appalachian range.
This central region of the province is also full of small discoveries of all kinds. Take time to stop and observe your surroundings. You’ll likely come across a multitude of scenic views like maple groves or clearings where you might spot local fauna.
Never Ride the Same Trail Twice
Check out the multiple routes suggested on the Tourisme Centre-du-Québec website. These trails are designed in a daisy chain pattern, meaning that if you want, you can cover several kilometres without ever retracing the same path. This allows you to enjoy a multi-day trip with a varied experience.
Through Plains and Valleys: A Three-Day Snowmobile Adventure
To fully appreciate its trail network, I recommend the emblematic circuit of the region. Let me introduce the Through Plains and Valleys tour!
This is a journey that takes three days and two nights to complete. This 640 km itinerary will take you through the agricultural lands that cover Centre-du-Québec. Part of the route will even lead you near the majestic St. Lawrence River. On the other end of this loop, you’ll discover trails in more mountainous areas.
The region’s snowmobile trails provide access to many restaurants, gas stations, and hotels, making it easy to plan stops and maximize your time on the snowmobile.
Although this itinerary suggests Princeville as the starting and ending point, you can begin this circuit from other locations. Those who wish to extend their stay in Centre-du-Québec will find many trails across the territory to easily do so.
Places to Add to Your Bucket List
Gourmet Stops: Experience Centre-du-Québec’s Culture
Snowmobiling demands physical effort and constant concentration. Therefore, it’s essential to stop, take a break, and enjoy local eateries. These are also great places to discover local culture and chat with residents, who might reveal hidden gems of their town. I’d like to recommend some must-visit places.
Domaine du Lac Louise : The Spot for Regulars
First, I want to invite you to visit Domaine du Lac Louise in Saint-Louis-de-Blandford. This beautiful camping turns into a snowmobile relay station in winter. It’s the ideal spot to plan a stop and meet local snowmobilers. The regulars can offer advice and share their favourite snowmobile spots in Centre-du-Québec. Domaine du Lac Louise is a friendly place where you’re sure to make connections.
Illegal 255: Swiss Cuisine in a Route 66 Setting
Otherwise, stop by Saint-Félix-de-Kingsey for a hearty meal at Illegal 255. This Route 66-themed restaurant-bar offers a menu with European flavours. The co-owner and chef, originally from Switzerland, will introduce you to the cuisine of her homeland. It’s a lively, convivial place where you’ll meet great people. I recommend this spot to all snowmobilers.
La Grange Pardue: Pure Nature
Head toward Ham-Nord to visit La Grange Pardue! This brewery farm loves hosting snowmobilers in winter. Enjoy a warm meal near a fireplace while admiring the beautiful landscape of the Appalachians.
Don’t miss out on visiting their brewing room! As their slogan says: “Here we cultivate beer!” (ici, on cultive de la bière). The staff will gladly share their passion and culture with you. You must stop there when riding the Trans Québec 65, between the U.S. border and Northern Québec.
Ô Quai des Brasseurs Microbrewery : A View of the River
Located in Bécancour, Ô Quai des Brasseurs offers snowmobilers a stunning view of the river. Believe me, it is well worth the detour! It’s THE meeting point for snowmobilers in northern Centre-du-Québec. In addition to their various homemade beers, check out their excellent menu! Indulge in the perch dish, a local product fished directly from the river, for a true taste of the region!
Manoir du lac William : Local Cuisine at its Best
Lastly, stop by to greet the Lessard family at Manoir du lac William in Saint-Ferdinand. This is one of the most popular snowmobile destinations in Centre-du-Québec. The Manoir’s restaurant offers renowned cuisine using local products. But this iconic spot is more than just a restaurant… but I’ll tell you more about that in the next section.
IMPORTANT: Always check the website for opening days and hours.
A Well-Deserved Rest
When it comes to accommodations, Centre-du-Québec offers a wide range of interesting options. Each establishment has its own benefits and services tailored to snowmobilers. Be sure to shop around for your hotel before your trip. Today, I’ll present two options. These are very different, but each will warmly welcome you and enhance your stay.
A Full Stay at Manoir Du Lac William
This gem in Saint-Ferdinand is the ideal place to pamper yourself and relax after covering hundreds of kilometres on snowmobile trails. With a secure, heated garage for your snowmobile, a spa, and Nordic baths, everything is in place for your comfort and relaxation. Manoir du Lac William is a must when snowmobiling in the region. The Lessard family is there to welcome and guide you throughout your stay.
Quality Inn & Suites: Sleep at the Trail’s Edge
The Quality Inn & Suites Victoriaville will meet all your desires if you want an unforgettable winter stay. The hotel is located right at the trailhead, so you won’t have to travel far on asphalt to get there.
To make your stay easier, the hotel offers services tailored to snowmobilers. First, keep your snowmobile warm overnight in their indoor parking lot (on request). The hotel also provides a small room for drying your gear. After a long day on the trails, relax in the indoor pool or spa. Finally, every reservation includes a hot breakfast buffet every morning to start your day off right!
Drop-Off Areas and Starting Points
You may need to carry your snowmobile with a trailer to access the trails in Centre-du-Québec. If that happens, it’s important to park your vehicle in a safe and permitted location. Three drop-off areas are made available to you specifically for this purpose. You can safely leave your vehicle and trailer in the following areas:
- Domaine du Lac Louise: 950 Route 263, Saint-Louis-de-Blandford
- Garage P. Bédard & Fils: Exit 253 from Highway 20, Villeroy
- Ô Quai des Brasseurs: 805 Avenue des Nénuphars, Bécancour
It Makes You Want to Go: Centre-du-Québec Is Calling!
Centre-du-Québec has so much to offer! Whether it’s the well-maintained snowmobile trails, breathtaking scenery, varied cuisine, or quality accommodation, it has everything to please you. If you are planning your next snowmobile trip, I highly recommend Centre-du-Québec as a destination of choice.
Visit the region’s website for more information or to plan your snowmobile trip in Centre-du-Québec.
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