Family Guide to the Laurentians: A 3-Day Itinerary
· 4 min read
A 3-day family itinerary in the Laurentians, based in Sainte-Agathe: lake, biking, mountains and swimming.
Three days to slow down, play outside and reconnect: that's what a family trip to the Laurentians promises. From our hotel in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, you're steps from Lac des Sables, right by the P'tit Train du Nord trail and about twenty minutes from Mont-Tremblant. Here's a simple, realistic 3-day itinerary designed for kids and parents alike, with a comfortable home base to come back to for a swim every evening. Whether you're travelling from Quebec, Ontario, the United States or France, the formula holds up: little driving, lots of fresh air and kids who sleep soundly.
Why the Laurentians are a winning choice for families
What makes the Laurentians so enjoyable for families is how close everything is. The beach, the village, the trails and the mountain are all nearby. No need to spend hours in the car between activities. Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is an ideal central point for exploring without stress, with laid-back restaurants, cafés and a summer market within walking distance.
And when the weather refuses to cooperate, the region never runs out of indoor options, starting with our heated pool and waterslide, open year-round. A successful family stay often comes down to that: a good balance between time outdoors and cozy moments.
Day 1: Arrival in Sainte-Agathe and a big swim
Take your time on the first day. After the drive, settle in, drop the bags and let the kids stretch their legs. Our heated indoor pool and its 21-metre spiral waterslide never fail to impress: plenty to keep the little ones busy while the grown-ups enjoy the whirlpool. It's the kind of arrival that puts everyone in a good mood.
In the late afternoon, walk into the village. Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts has kept its lively heart: patios, a crêperie, a pizzeria, a snack bar and cafés sit side by side. To figure out where to eat as a family based on your kids' ages, ask the front desk for their favourite spots, we know the good local tables well. Back at the hotel, tomorrow's continental breakfast is already included, one less thing to worry about.
Day 2: Lac des Sables and the P'tit Train du Nord
Day two is all about the outdoors. Head to Lac des Sables, just minutes away: a beach in summer, swimming, sandcastles and, for the more adventurous, a boat or pedal boat outing. Toddlers are easily entertained at the water's edge, and there are countless ways to fill a morning by Lac des Sables with the kids.
In the afternoon, hop on the bikes. The P'tit Train du Nord trail runs close by and stays flat between the villages, perfect terrain for family riding without overdoing it, with regular stops along the way. Depending on the season, the same trail is also great for walking or cross-country skiing. Head back before dinner for one last dip: it's often the kids' favourite moment of the day, and a chance to let the bikes dry off while they play.
Day 3: Off to Mont-Tremblant
For the last day, venture a little farther. Mont-Tremblant is about twenty minutes away: a colourful pedestrian village, a gondola with views over the Laurentians, accessible hiking trails and activities that change with the seasons, from fall colours to ski slopes in winter. The surrounding area also offers Mont Blanc for skiing and, in spring, the classic sugar shacks. Pick just one big activity for this final day so you don't wear out the troops before the trip home.
Since departure usually happens in the morning, enjoy one last leisurely breakfast, squeeze in a final swim if the pool schedule allows, it's posted at the front desk, and hit the road with a head full of memories. You'll see: the urge to stay one more night comes back quickly.
Practical tips for your family weekend in the Laurentians
A few pointers to keep everything running smoothly. Travel light on the logistics: parking and Wi-Fi are free, and breakfast is included every morning. Our connecting rooms and family suites with bunk beds make life easier for bigger crews; some suites even have a whirlpool tub for the parents. Bringing the dog? Pets are welcome, just mention it when you book.
Pack clothing suited to the season, swimsuits, running shoes, a rain jacket or a tuque, and keep half a day flexible in your schedule: the best discoveries of a family weekend in the Laurentians are often the ones you never planned. To keep the planning going, take a look at our roundup of family activities in Sainte-Agathe as well.
Ready for your Laurentians itinerary?
Three days is plenty of time to sample the best of the region, and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is the ideal base camp for enjoying it all without rushing. To experience this family itinerary in the Laurentians, book directly with us: it's the best rate, guaranteed. Click "Book Now" or call us at 1 866 527-9206, tell us your kids' ages and we'll help you build the perfect stay.
