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    Mashteuiatsh: An Authentic Immersion in Ilnu Culture in Lac-Saint-Jean

    Posted on by apaC2V3R4

    Kuei! Just a few miles from Roberval, on the banks of the mighty Pekuakami River, the community of Mashteuiatsh welcomes you!

    The living heart of Ilnu culture in Lac-Saint-Jean, Mashteuiatsh is a unique destination where a history with roots stretching back thousands of years lives on. Here, you will meet the Pekuakamiulnuatsh, who generously share their ancestral traditions and their worldview, which is deeply connected to the land.

    Your visit to Mashteuiatsh will leave a lasting impression: every moment spent with the Pekuakamiulnuatsh will enrich your worldview, and you’ll leave with a renewed understanding of the contemporary issues facing First Nations.

    Want to experience this unique cultural immersion? Here are five ideal activities to help you get to know the Pekuakamiulnuatsh!

    Grand rassemblement des Premières Nations – Mamuhitunanu

    Did you know that Mashteuiatsh has been recognized as a gathering place for thousands of years? It was here, on the banks of the Pekuakami River, that members of different Nations would meet during the summer before heading inland for the winter. These gatherings provided an opportunity to exchange ideas, celebrate, and come together.

    Today, this tradition continues with the Grand rassemblement des Premières Nations – Mamuhitunanu, held every July. This massive celebration aims to showcase history and traditions through cultural and sporting activities. The festivities take place over a week, fostering exchange and sharing between cultures.

    Non-Indigenous people are warmly invited to attend the traditional sports competitions, the Pow-wow, and the musical performances for an authentic experience.

    Carrefour d’accueil ilnu Nikuishkushtakan

    Not sure where to start your journey into the heart of Ilnu culture? Stop by the Carrefour d’accueil ilnu Nikuishkushtakan!

    Discover the Uassahitsh site, a cultural heritage center where you can learn about the traditions and traditional way of life of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh. Located on the shores of Lac Saint-Jean, this serene spot is perfect for relaxing or enjoying a picnic in an idyllic setting.

    Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh – Kakanauelitakanitshuap

    An essential stop on your cultural journey, the Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh – Kakanauelitakanitshuap is much more than just a museum! It is a place for exchange, discovery, and artistic creation—a must-visit destination for exploring the ancestral knowledge and culture of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh.

    The permanent exhibition Tshilanu Ilnuatsh / We, the Ilnuatsh takes you on an interactive and fun journey to discover their way of life through the cycle of the seasons. The outdoor interpretive site Nuhtshimihtsh / In the Forest allows you to explore and discover the tree, plant, and shrub species native to the region in the company of an experienced guide.

    The whole family is welcome at this museum!

    Heritage Tour in the Footsteps of the Ilnu (podcast)

    Discover the history and traditions of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh as you explore the Circuit patrimonial sur les traces ilnu!

    This captivating audio tour will take you to the heart of the Mashteuiatsh community. Along the way, you’ll be guided by the poignant stories of community members who weave together a rich collective history. You’ll hear about ancient campsites, traditional gathering places, and sacred sites that still dot the landscape today.

    The tour is primarily on foot, but some points of interest are farther away. We suggest visiting these by bike or car.

    Ilnu craft shops and art studios

    Mashteuiatsh is home to a few shops and creative studios where traditional craftsmanship blends with contemporary artistic expression. Unique pieces, handcrafted by local artists, showcase the expertise of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh and allow you to take home a tangible piece of Ilnu culture.

    It’s also an opportunity to speak directly with the artists to learn more about their passion, their creative process, and the meaning behind their creations.

    Here are a few must-visit spots:

    Dolbeau-Mistassini and the surrounding area: An experience in the heart of Lac-Saint-Jean’s natural beauty

    Posted on by apaC2V3R4

    The birthplace of Louis-Hémon’s famous novel *Maria Chapdelaine*, the Maria-Chapdelaine RCM invites you to explore! From Dolbeau-Mistassini, the beating heart of the RCM, to the smallest villages scattered throughout this magnificent landscape, every corner of the region tells a story and holds treasures waiting to be discovered.

    A land of contrasts, featuring vast forested expanses, agricultural plains, and remarkable rivers, northern Lac-Saint-Jean is a true natural sanctuary. It’s the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both thrills and moments of tranquility!

    As you can see, Dolbeau-Mistassini and its surroundings are the perfect place to enjoy a true nature experience! Here are a few activity ideas to help you make the most of your visit to the land of Maria-Chapdelaine.

    Wild Blueberries Take Center Stage

    Did you know that Dolbeau-Mistassini is the blueberry capital of the world? In August, blueberry fields stretching as far as the eye can see become a gathering place, where picking these little blue berries becomes a family tradition.

    It’s also a chance to discover the Festival du Bleuet, which has been celebrating them for over 60 years, the delicious chocolate-covered blueberries from the Chocolaterie des Pères Trappistes and the gourmet delights at the ÉCONOMUSÉE® de la confiturière : bleuet sauvage in Albanel. You’ll quickly understand what makes this little fruit so unique and precious!

    La table au goût du Lac-Saint-Jean

    The Lac-Saint-Jean region offers so much more than just wild blueberries! Discover the flavors and local producers that set the Maria-Chapdelaine region apart by completing the La table au goût du Lac tour. Tasty meats, fresh cheeses, homemade jams, craft beers, fresh berries, and vegetables: you’ll find all the ingredients you need to put together your own local picnic!

    Have you ever heard of donkey milk?

    Immerse yourself in a world of wellness and indulgence with a visit to Les Douceurs de Mulâne, a small business in Albanel that specializes in crafting handmade body care products made with donkey milk.

    A family tour of the donkey farm is full of surprises and lets you enjoy a heartwarming moment with its long-eared residents. With a picnic area, a treasure hunt for the little ones, and an outdoor escape game, the whole family will leave delighted by this unique experience!

    A Family Day at Ferme Dan Nature

    Discover a haven of biodiversity where more than 30 species of exotic animals and birds live together in harmony. At La Ferme Dan Nature in Péribonka, you can get up close to alpacas, Shetland sheep, Angora goats, miniature horses, majestic peacocks, and iridescent pheasants.

    Let yourself be guided through the farm, the water garden, and the interpretive trail, then extend the enchantment by staying in a log cabin.

    Explore La Passerelle du 49e by ATV

    Calling all thrill-seeking adventurers! La Passerelle du 49e is a 236-km ATV and snowmobile trail located north of Lac-Saint-Jean.

    Did you know that the trail gets its name from the fact that it forms a “bridge” connecting the Ashuapmushuan and Péribonka rivers, running largely along the 49th parallel?

    During your expedition, you’ll also cross nine bridges spanning impressive rivers such as the Ashuapmushuan, Mistassibi, and Péribonka. Plus, numerous lodging options, restaurants, and related services line the trail to ensure your adventure is a success. Start your engines—let’s go!

    An unforgettable encounter with wolves at Parc Mahikan

    Fancy an adventure at twilight? At Parc Mahikan/Aventuraid, three packs await you for an unforgettable encounter with this legendary predator.

    Explore the wilderness by dog sled or canoe-camping, then let yourself be lulled by the howls of the pack during an immersive night at an ecolodge. It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with « Wild-Fi»!

    Your adventure in the world of Maria-Chapdelaine starts here!

    Visiting northern Lac-Saint-Jean is much more than just a getaway. Beyond the activities and discoveries, this bountiful region invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters.

    Whether you leave with blueberry-stained hands, your soul soothed by the gentleness of donkeys, or your heart still racing from your encounter with wolves, you’ll take home much more than just memories. You’ll bring back a piece of that rare authenticity that so perfectly defines this corner of the country.

    A scenic route full of culinary delights: Cheese shops, delis, and bakeries around Lac-Saint-Jean.

    Posted on by apaC2V3R4

    A tour of Lac Saint-Jean takes you through stunning landscapes, but also gives you the chance to stop and meet passionate local producers.

    In every town, farms, cheese shops, and bakeries open their doors to visitors to share the expertise passed down through generations. Here, agritourism truly comes into its own: simple, authentic, and delicious.

    Les Fromageries du Lac: A Tradition of Excellence

    The Lac Saint-Jean region is a hub of cheese-making in Quebec. Every stop around the lake offers an opportunity to discover unique creations:

    • Fromagerie Lehmann (Hébertville) : a pioneer in raw-milk farm cheeses, renowned throughout Quebec.
    • Fromagerie L’Autre Versant (Hébertville) : a small artisanal producer focused on local sourcing and authenticity.
    • Fromagerie Saint-Laurent (Saint-Bruno) : an artisanal cheese shop deeply rooted in its community.
    • Microlaiterie Riverin du Lac (Hébertville) : renowned for its cheeses and fresh dairy products.
    • Fromagerie et Boulangerie Médard (Saint-Gédéon) : a classic must-visit where breads and cheeses complement each other perfectly.
    • Fromagerie Laroche (Roberval) : a passionate artisan who crafts fine cheeses using local milk.
    • Fromagerie Bouchard Artisan Bio (Saint-Félicien) : specializing in organic and regional cheeses.
    • Fromagerie Perron (Saint-Prime) : a local institution at Lac, renowned for its cheeses and its eco-museum.
    • Ferme 3J – Fromagerie au Pays-des-Bleuets (Saint-Félicien) : a farm that showcases blueberries even in its cheese products.

    These cheese dairies offer a true culinary tour of the region and showcase its rich and varied regional expertise.

    Bread and grain products

    Good cheese is always best enjoyed with artisanal bread. Several stops along the Tour du lac Saint-Jean offer the perfect addition to your gourmet basket:

    • La Boulangerie Normandin (Normandin) : artisanal recipes and fresh products in the heart of the village.
    • Boulangerie Farine (Alma) : specializing in authentic breads, perfect for enjoying with local cheeses.

    Local Farms and Meat: The Bounty of the Land

    The Lac Saint-Jean region is also an agricultural area known for its diversity:

    • Ferme Tournevent (Hébertville) : a pioneer in organic farming, offering oils, legumes, and farm-fresh produce year-round.
    • Vachement Bœuf (La Doré) : a local producer of high-quality meats, straight from the farm to your table.
    • À L’Orée des Champs – Produits régionaux (Saint-Nazaire) : a shop offering a variety of products to fill your table with local flavors.

    When local character meets the art of living

    Beyond fine dining, some artisans combine flavors with a certain art of living:

    • Manon Brassard – Terroir et décoration (Saint-Félicien) : A unique shop offering a mix of regional products, gift ideas, and locally inspired home decor.

    A road that tells stories

    Every cheese shop, bakery, or farm along the Tour du lac Saint-Jean route tells more than just a recipe: it tells a story of family, passion, and perseverance. As you travel the route, you’ll discover producers who are proud to share their expertise and their love for the region.

    The Tour du lac Saint-Jean is an unparalleled gourmet destination. With its fine cheeses, artisanal breads, local meats, and organic products, it offers an authentic journey into the heart of the Saint-Jean region. More than just a tour, it’s an encounter with the artisans who shape the region’s culinary identity.

    Hit the road—come take a tour!

    A fall tour of Lac Saint-Jean: what to see and do along the scenic route

    Posted on by apaC2V3R4

    Fall in Lac Saint-Jean is an unforgettable season. The vibrant landscapes, crisp air, local flavors, and diverse tourist attractions make it the perfect destination for a colorful getaway. To discover all the region has to offer, take the Tour du Lac Saint-Jean scenic route

    Hit the road and come for a ride!

    Here’s a look at the must-see attractions this fall.

    Oasis et Spa du Capitaine : relaxing by the lake

    There’s nothing better than a moment of relaxation to start your stay off right. At the Oasis et Spa du Capitaine, soak in the hot tubs, enjoy the saunas and relaxing treatments, all while taking in the view of the vast Lac Saint-Jean. Fall is the perfect season to enjoy the pleasant contrast between the crisp air and the warmth of the facilities.

    Musée Louis-Hémon : a literary and historical journey

    An iconic destination, the Louis-Hémon Museum in Péribonka immerses visitors in the world of *Maria Chapdelaine*, a work that has left an indelible mark on the Quebec imagination. Immersive exhibitions, guided tours, and walking trails around the site offer insights into the history of the settlers of the Jean region and allow visitors to experience the atmosphere of the area in the early 20th century.

    Véloroute des Bleuets : cycling through a sea of colors

    With its 256-kilometer cycling route, the Véloroute des Bleuets is the perfect way to take in the autumn scenery. Whether you choose a short stretch or the full loop, you’ll pass through vibrant forests, welcoming villages, and spectacular views of the lake. In the fall, the tranquility and golden light make the experience even more memorable.

    Cristal du Lac : a unique mineral adventure

    Discover the geological treasures of Lac-Saint-Jean with Cristal du Lac. This family-friendly activity lets you explore a quartz mine and even extract your own crystals. Educational workshops and guided tours add an educational element to an already fascinating experience.

    Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon : nature at its finest

    A true outdoor paradise, Pointe-Taillon National Park features expansive beaches and numerous trails. In the fall, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely hike amid the falling leaves. The Pointe-Taillon section is particularly popular for wildlife viewing, whether it’s migratory birds or the deer that roam the area.

    Parc de la Caverne du Trou de la Fée : underground adventure and panoramic views

    Located in Desbiens, the Parc de la Caverne du Trou de la Fée is an exceptional natural site. Explore the cave, walk along suspension bridges over the Métabetchouane River, and marvel at the canyon bathed in autumn colors. The site perfectly combines adrenaline-pumping adventure with natural beauty.

    Village historique de Val-Jalbert : a trip back to the 1920s

    The Val-Jalbert Historical Village is a true open-air museum. Stroll through the streets of a village frozen in time, visit period homes, and watch live demonstrations. The spectacular Ouiatchouan Falls, standing 72 meters tall, rivals the most beautiful waterfalls in Quebec. Fall makes the scenery even more breathtaking.

    Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien : Wildlife in the North

    The Saint-Félicien Wildlife Park is recognized as one of the most beautiful wildlife parks in Canada. As you board the famous open-air train, you enter the heart of a vast park where caribou, bison, moose, and bears roam freely. In the fall, the experience takes on a whole new dimension with the colorful landscapes of the Boreal region.

    Musée Ilnu de Mashteuiatsh : a genuine encounter

    The Ilnu Museum in Mashteuiatsh is a unique cultural hub that offers visitors a glimpse into the history, culture, and traditions of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh people. Permanent exhibits, Indigenous stories, and traditional artifacts come together to create a deeply human and enriching experience. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the soul of the region.

    Hit the road and come take a trip!

    This fall, treat yourself to a getaway to Lac Saint-Jean. The Tour du Lac Saint-Jean is more than just a drive—it’s a travel experience that combines nature, culture, history, and relaxation.

    Blueberry recipes from Lac-Saint-Jean: 4 delicious ways to cook this iconic Fruit

    Posted on by apaC2V3R4

    In Lac-Saint-Jean, the blueberry is much more than just a fruit: it’s a symbol of identity and pride. Every summer, the fields and forests turn blue, and the baskets fill up.

    But it’s in the fall that the fun takes on a whole new dimension. The harvests are in, the days are getting cooler, and it’s the perfect time to head into the kitchen. With the aroma of pastry baking in the oven, jams simmering gently, and delicious snacks ready to go, fall is the season when Lac’s blueberries are transformed into gourmet treats.

    Lac-Saint-Jean Blueberry Pie

    Golden, fragrant, and bursting with juicy fruit, blueberry pie is a classic from the Lac-Saint-Jean region.

    Ingredients:

    2 sheets of pie crust

    4 cups fresh blueberries from Lac-Saint-Jean

    ¾ cup sugar

    3 tablespoons cornstarch

    1 tablespoon lemon juice

    1 teaspoon lemon zest

    1 beaten egg yolk (for glazing)

    Preparation:

    Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a bowl, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Place one sheet of pastry in a pie dish and fill with the blueberry mixture. Cover with the second sheet of pastry, seal the edges, and make a few slits on top. Brush with egg yolk and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

    Homemade blueberry jam

    What could be better than starting the day with a slice of toast topped with Lac-Saint-Jean blueberry jam?

    Ingredients:

    5 cups Lac-Saint-Jean blueberries

    2 1/2 cups sugar

    2 tablespoons lemon juice

    1 packet of pectin (optional, depending on desired texture)

    Preparation:

    Place the blueberries in a large saucepan. Add the sugar and lemon juice, and bring to a boil while stirring. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until thickened. Add the pectin if desired and mix well. Pour into sterilized jars and seal. Store in the refrigerator or freeze to enjoy later.

    Moist Blueberry Muffins

    Moist, fragrant, and bursting with fruit, blueberry muffins are perfect for a snack.

    Ingredients:

    2 cups flour

    1 tablespoon baking powder

    ½ teaspoon salt

    ½ cup sugar

    1 cup milk

    1 egg

    ⅓ cup vegetable oil

    1 ½ cups Lac-Saint-Jean blueberries

    Preparation:

    Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and oil. Combine the two mixtures and gently fold in the blueberries. Divide the batter among muffin cups. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    Blueberry sauce for meat

    Blueberries aren’t just for sweet treats. When used in a sauce, they enhance a game fillet, grilled pork, or even a local aged cheese.

    Ingredients:

    2 cups Lac-Saint-Jean blueberries

    ½ cup red wine

    2 tablespoons honey

    1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

    Salt and pepper to taste

    Preparation:

    In a small saucepan, combine all the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Serve warm over a game fillet, pork, or aged cheese.

    Whether you’ve baked a golden pie overflowing with blueberries, made jars of homemade jam, baked a dozen moist muffins, or prepared a fruity sauce to accompany your meals, each creation carries a little piece of Lac-Saint-Jean within it. These simple, hearty flavors reflect the abundance of our harvests and the warmth of our hospitality.

    Hit the road and come visit! Because here, the blueberry isn’t just a fruit—it’s an invitation to extend the Lac-Saint-Jean experience right into your kitchen.

    Tour of Lac-Saint-Jean by Snowmobile – Step by Step

    Posted on by apaC2V3R4

    Grab your bike and come for a nice ride!

    Surrounding the majestic Lac-Saint-Jean, this 325-kilometer-plus ride… invites you on a memorable adventure. From Alma to Dolbeau-Mistassini, via Roberval and Saint-Félicien, the route takes you through breathtaking landscapes, welcoming villages, and legendary stops. It’s the classic winter experience of the Jeannois region: snow, freedom, and memories to fill your visor.

    Step 1: Official departure: Alma Airport

    Free, secure, and easy parking—and above all, super convenient for snowmobilers coming from out of town.

    It’s easy to unload the trailer, hook up the sled, and head out without any hassle.

    As soon as you leave, you’ll be on the Trans-Québec Trail #23—it’s a smooth ride. Gas stations are nearby.

    Alma offers a variety of services: rest stops, safe accommodations, and more.

    Section 1: Alma → Roberval – 70 km

    As soon as you leave Alma (Trans-Québec #23), the scenery opens up: snow-covered fields.

    The ride is smooth, wide, and well-maintained.

    Ride along the lake, take Regional Trail #383 to join Trans-Québec #83, right on the lake’s edge, where the horizon stretches white as far as the eye can see.

    You’ll find several rest stops along the way if you need a break.

    In Chambord, you can take a shortcut across the lake via Local Trail #617 to arrive directly in Roberval.

    Village sur Glace

    (via Local Trail #373 or Lake Trail #617)

    The Village on Ice, a small town built on the frozen lake.

    It’s a signature feature of the region.

    It’s definitely worth a stop.

    In Roberval, a variety of services are also available to snowmobilers.

    Section 2: Roberval → Dolbeau-Mistassini – via Saint-Félicien (70 km)

    Continue on Trail #373 toward Saint-Félicien.

    The terrain offers a bit more variety: forest, valleys, and snow-covered corridors.

    Still on #373, you head toward Dolbeau-Mistassini.

    It’s wooded and secluded, with beautiful winding sections and a more immersive feel.

    In Dolbeau-Mistassini, several services are available for snowmobilers.

    Here, there are two possible routes:

    1. Head toward the 49th Street Bridge
    2. Continue toward Péribonka / Sainte-Monique / the east shore of the lake

    Option A : Passerelle du 49e parallèle (an additional 160 km)

    • Trans-Québec Trail #93 toward Girardville
    • Then Regional Trail #373 toward Saint-Élizabeth-de-Proulx
    • The 49th Parallel Footbridge is located along this route

    We also recommend stopping by the nearby Domaine du Lac Éden.

    Option B: A leisurely ride along the north shore – 95 km

    Dolbeau-Mistassini → Sainte-Monique → Saint-Henri-de-Taillon → Alma

    If you’re looking for a laid-back, open stretch that’s quintessentially Lac-Saint-Jean, this is the one.

    You’ll ride along the north shore of Lac-Saint-Jean, where the villages are blanketed in snow and brimming with hospitality, and where the lake occasionally comes into view, like a quiet giant watching you pass by.

    Take the Trans-Québec Trail #93 south to Alma.

    There are several services and rest stops along the way.

    Additional options:

    Tough option: Les Monts-Valin (90 additional km)

    You’re heading out to conquer the Monts-Valin via the Trans-Québec Trail #93.

    The Monts-Valin is a powder paradise.

    You’ll climb up via Regional Trail #383, then take Trail #328 toward Saint-David-de-Falardeau at Valinouët.

    The further you go, the higher the terrain rises, and the deeper the snow gets.

    That’s when you’ll understand why snowmobilers talk about it with such excitement.

    Legendary Option: Travel through the Mont-Apica Wildlife Reserve and Observatory (an additional 250 km)

    From Hébertville, you can reach the Laurentides Wildlife Reserve via the Trans-Québec Trail #23.

    This isn’t a casual Sunday stroll. It’s an expedition: miles of northern forest, sweeping panoramas, and a destination at Mont-Apica, a former military site. Silence. Vast. Powerful.

    A ride that puts things into perspective, requiring careful planning and thorough preparation.

    From Hébertville to the Mont-Apica rest stop, the round trip is about 150 km—a spectacular loop.

    Conclusion

    The Lac-Saint-Jean Snowmobile Tour is more than just a trail.

    It’s a region that embraces winter to the fullest and offers a wealth of possibilities.

    Snow, scenery, rest stops, and facilities tailored to snowmobilers of all skill levels.

    Helmet. Keys. Open road.

    The lake is waiting for you.

    Grab your machine and come for a ride this winter.

    Exploring the Laurentides wildlife reserve by snowmobile: heading for Mont-Apica

    Posted on by apaC2V3R4

    In Quebec, there are trails that are much more than just paths. The Trans-Québec #23 is one of them. Whether you start in Quebec City, the Saguenay region, or Lac-Saint-Jean, this long white ribbon winding through the Laurentides Wildlife Reserve is an adventure in itself—a vast, wild, spectacular landscape… and an absolute must for any snowmobiler who loves the great outdoors.

    A legendary trail

    Trail #TQ23 is the main snowmobile route into the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region. It connects Québec City to Alma, traversing hundreds of kilometers of boreal forest, high plateaus, and snow-covered valleys. The ride is a long one, sometimes in almost complete silence.

    Mount Apica: a peak worth the hike

    In the heart of the reserve, the Mont-Apica rest stop marks a key point along the route. This is where the famous loop leading to the Mont-Apica observatory begins.

    After a few kilometers of climbing, you reach the summit, perched at an elevation of 884 meters, the highest point in the region. From up there, the view is breathtaking: a sea of mountains, forests, and frozen lakes stretching up to 50 kilometers on the horizon. In the middle of winter, it is quite simply one of the most beautiful panoramas accessible by snowmobile in Quebec.

    A piece of history

    In the 1950s, at the height of the Cold War, Mount Apica was a strategic military base whose mission was to detect any enemy air incursions, serving as a key defense post for Canada. The base has since been closed and dismantled, but the weather radar is still visible.

    Le Relais du Mont-Apica: A Refreshed Stopover

    Le Relais du Mont-Apica, a favorite among snowmobilers, is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The facility has recently expanded its space to offer an even more enjoyable experience.

    Its facilities ensure safety and provide all essential services: a gas station, food service, a bar, tools, restrooms, and Wi-Fi access.

    The authentic Lac-Saint-Jean tourtière: no, it’s not a meat pie!

    Posted on by apaC2V3R4

    In Lac-Saint-Jean, the magic of Christmas begins when someone says:
    “So, who’s making the tourtière?”

    Because here, tourtière isn’t just a meal—it’s a tradition that’s still deeply rooted in families. It’s the centerpiece of the table, the aroma that fills the house at Christmas. And of course… we don’t take this iconic dish lightly.

    “A tourtière isn’t just meat pie!”

    We’re not talking about some run-of-the-mill “pâté” made with just meat and spices. No, no, no. Here, the tourtière is a culinary heritage. A family tradition. A secret passed down through the generations… sometimes with the same jealously guarded discretion as a good blueberry patch or a walleye fishing spot.

    “Moose or no moose?”

    “Don’t stir it too much!”

    “Do you add the broth before or after?”

    “It has to be thick and the crust sealed with a vent, otherwise it’s just not right at all!”

    In short, no one makes the same tourtière… but everyone makes THE real one!

    An authentic recipe from Lac-Saint-Jean.

    Here, we’re sharing a traditional version, just like many families make it. Feel free to add your own twist… but no ground meat, promise?

    Ingredients (for a large dish serving 6 to 8 people)

    • 1.5 kg of meat, cut into cubes: pork, beef, or game if available
    • 8 to 10 potatoes, diced
    • 1 large onion, chopped
    • Salt, pepper, and your favorite spices (to taste…)
    • A good homemade broth
    • A thick shortcrust pastry, made with love

    Preparation

    1. Place all the ingredients in the broth, making sure they are completely submerged, then let them marinate for 24 hours.
    2. Line the bottom and sides of the dish with the dough.
    3. Add the filling and cover with a tightly sealed crust.
    4. Make a “chimney” in the center of the dough.
    5. Bake very slowly: about 8 hours at 275°F (135°C).
    6. Let it rest… and resist the temptation to dig in with a spoon!

    Serve with a creamy salad, beets, and green ketchup.

    While it’s simmering:
    We pull out the cards and tell stories.

    You’ll see why we take pride in this here