As a family, we love camping! And not only in summer… I recently discovered the Nature Nature campground, in the Saint-Jean-des-Piles sector. It is open year-round and offers micro-refuges and chalets with magnificent views. It feels like paradise to sit by the fire with a hot chocolate and marshmallows! In addition, the Mauricie National Park is only a few minutes away by car!
Day 2: it’s a must to go for a walk when nature displays shimmering colours… As a family, we love to go in search of the best viewpoints and enjoy the trails! Many places are accessible for free, such as the Thibaudeau-Ricard trail, the Parc récréoforestier de Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc, the Parc de l’Île Melville (secteur des chutes), or the Parc de la rivière Grand-Mère!
For a snack, head to Tous les jours dimanche, an artisan bakery located in the city center! Muffin, chocolatine, cinnamon bun… In fact, EVERYTHING that the baker makes is exquisite – so take the opportunity to stock up! On a rainy day, the kids love their hot chocolate… yummy! It’s the best in town according to my daughter Anaïs. Psst! To be served with some cookies: it’s perfect!
For dinner, after a day in the great outdoors, treat yourself by going to the restaurant Zélé>! In addition to the impeccable service, the Zélé has two toques in the very famous Gault & Millau guide. If it’s on the slate, I recommend their cod fish. I love it! The girl from Sept-Îles in me has found a gastronomic landmark there! A big thank you to the chef, Justin!
On a rainy day, in Shawi, my children NEVER get tired of going bowling at place Biermans. Surely because they take the opportunity to ask for a ride in the bumper cars and some popcorn at the movie theater! Then, we spoil ourselves by sharing a good pizza at Mike Pizzéria. A well-kept secret, it costs almost nothing and it’s like going to eat at your aunt’s! The atmosphere is very family friendly.
On a nice day, girls who love animals will vote to go horseback riding at the Écuries Équi-AMI or for a visit at the Ranch Dupont! By the way, you can also enjoy the Balado-Western podcast if you feel like it. It’s a great way to discover the western side of the Mauricie region.
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