The Top Things to Do in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Québec: A Region With Endless Stories & Vast Horizons
Abitibi-Témiscamingue is a region in western Québec where, as a traveller, it’s easy to get to the heart of what makes this area tick. There’s untouched natural beauty, the opportunity to not just visit local businesses, but chat with owners, and this undeniable feeling that, right now, Abitibi-Témiscamingue is firmly placing itself on both the regional and national tourism map — and rightfully so.
Bri and I at Parc national d'Opémican. Photo Credit: Christopher Mitchell
Bri and I are very fortunate that we’ve been able to traverse so much of this nation we call home, Canada. Yet, it’s regions like Abitibi-Témiscamingue that remind me that, there’s still so much work to do be done — so much more for us to see if we want to get a deeper understanding of this nation of ours.
We didn’t know enough about the Voyageurs, and why this was such a key stop for them on their way to and from the far north. We didn’t know enough about Indigenous Peoples who called this land home before the arrival of the Europeans. We didn’t know enough about the men and women who mined and were involved with the lumber trade — the sweat that was spent by everyday people to help Canada grow.
In short, we didn’t have the context yet to fully appreciate the stories that swirl around Abitibi-Témiscamingue, if only you can pause long enough to listen.
So, that’s what we did. We set out to intentionally listen, to learn, and to explore, and it all resulted in a deeply meaningful foray into a region that Bri and I are already excited to return to.
About Abitibi-Témiscamingue
First, it should be acknowledged that Indigenous Peoples (and in particular the Algonquins) were here long before the first French expeditions started all the way back in 1670. The fur trade is what initially spurred development here, exemplified by the the Obadjiwan-Fort-Témiscamingue National Historic Site, which was built in 1720, and was a critical stop on the Hudson Bay trading route. The Fort was built on the east banks of Lake Timiskaming, on what would be considered Anishinaabe lands.
Agriculture, forestry and mining started to develop here in the 19th and 20th century, and many of the sites you can visit will tell the stories of the people who were involved with these trades. Parc national d'Opémican is a good place to come and learn about the history of the logging industry in particular.
Where there are resources, there’s often rich geology and remarkable natural surroundings, and that’s certainly the case here. There’s a very different, relaxed pace here, and this sense that things haven’t always been easy, but that almost anyone would give you the shirt off their back if it’d help you along your way.
Personally, as I noted above, I didn’t know the history of this region, and it revealed itself with each town and city we visited, each historic site we learned about, each person we met, each meal we shared.
A stroll along the water in Rouyn-Noranda. Photo Credit: Christopher Mitchell
The region is anchored by its five regional county municipalities, with key urban hubs like Rouyn-Noranda, Val-d'Or, Amos, Ville-Marie, and La Sarre. Each community brings its own flavour, with a strong sense of place and pride.
From a tourism lens, Abitibi-Témiscamingue is all about authenticity. This is a place for travellers who love big landscapes and small, meaningful experiences with the peoples who continue to carry on the traditions of the people who came before them.
It’s unspoilt, unpretentious, and somewhere that Bri and I felt like there were stories (and lessons to be learnt) everywhere. Plus, it was a lot of a fun as well. We learned a lot, and returned from the trip all the better for it.
Please note this article contains affiliate links. Simply put, this means we may receive a small commission for some of our honest and heartfelt recommendations at no additional cost to you.
How Can You Make the Most of Your Visit to Abitibi-Témiscamingue?
Visit the Obadjiwan–Fort Témiscamingue National Historic Site
You’ll find the Obadjiwan–Fort Témiscamingue National Historic Site in Duhamel-Ouest, Quebec, on the eastern shore of Lake Témiscamingue. We learned early on in our tour that “Témiscamingue” actually means “deep water” in the Anishinaabe language. This area has been important to Indigenous communities for over 6,000 years, and while much of the interpretation onsite focuses on the European fur trade, Parks Canada has worked closely with the Temiscaming First Nation to honour the deeper layers of story embedded here.
The French established a trading fort here as early as the 17th century, recognizing the site as roughly the halfway mark between Montreal and James Bay. Though none of the original buildings remain standing, Parks Canada acquired the site in 1970, and archaeologists were able to identify the original foundations, sparking new ways to tell the fort’s story.
Here, you’ll learn about the voyageurs—men who transported up to three tons of cargo in canoes sealed with pine gum and bear fat. They were chosen not for swimming ability (in fact, non-swimmers were apparently preferred because they’d be more incentivized not to tip their canoes by accident and, thus, would keep goods dry), but for grit.
These were men who might make $25 working the fields all year, or $100 in a single summer paddling, repairing canoes, and singing rhythmic rowing songs under the command of a stern “driver.” Meals were often little more than pea soup, though extra rum was apparently at the ready for a job well done.
I was particularly taken by some of the instruments the voyageurs played with along the way, including the “jaw harp,” which our guide could actually play!
After spending some time learning more through the exhibitions, we headed to the “Enchanted Forest.” Here you’ll see gnarled white pines twist and lean like you’ve probably never seen before (I know I hadn’t). Our guide told us that locals tell the tale of a chief’s daughter who played her flute so beautifully that the trees began to dance and, as such, they’ve been frozen in time ever since. Scientifically speaking, he did note, perhaps it could also be the result of light and wind patterns — but I prefer the poetry of the former story.
You’ll want to watch the film in the Visitor Centre, and interact with some of the exhibits there, but a major takeaway from this site is that long before European boots hit this soil, Indigenous communities had already recognized and valued this land.
Come here to appreciate the scenery, to better understand the stories of the Indigenous Peoples and Europeans who once stood on these lands and, quite honestly, to better contextualize the story of how Canada came to be.
Spend Time at Nordvie farm
Nordvie Farm is proof that passion, family roots, and a deep respect for the land can come together to create something truly special. Established in 1984, Nordvie has become the region’s only commercial strawberry farm. As Madeleine, who now leads the charge on the farm (and was as good a tour guide as you could ask for), puts it, “being north, it does make the strawberries sweeter!”
We learned that, thanks to the region’s longer daylight hours (in the warmer months), photosynthesis “supercharges the fruit.” At around 25°C, the strawberry actually stops producing sugar and starts consuming it — and this region is far enough north that it’s not regularly moving past those temperatures, thus keeping the strawberries sweeter.
After 11 years working as an engineer, Madeleine felt the call of the land. “The farm was calling me,” she said to us with a smile.
She returned to work alongside her parents, both of whom still help run the show—her father, whom she affectionately calls “Superman,” brings a chemistry background and a nearly encyclopedic agricultural knowledge to the operation. Together, they’ve transformed Nordvie into not only a haven for strawberry lovers, but also a model for sustainable, organic farming in Abitibi-Témiscamingue.
Pesticide-free and deeply committed to biodiversity, the farm encourages the presence of wild insects to help control unwanted pests. They also waste nothing. Whole fruits go into slushes and sparkling juices (their rhubarb slush is legendary), while pulp gets turned into teas and even passed along to local soap makers when it doesn’t meet quality standards to be consumed. And it’s not just strawberries—they grow baby ginger, rhubarb, and other northern delights with the same care and attention.
At Nordvie, it’s about more than just growing food—it’s about growing a philosophy rooted in family, sustainability, and a sense of place. When you sip a rhubarb slush or bite into one of their impossibly sweet strawberries, you’re tasting the north in all its vibrant, carefully cultivated glory.
If farms are your forté, you may also want to pop by L’Eden Rouge in Saint-Bruno-de-Guigues, or Ferme la Poul-a-ries in Poularies.
Don’t Miss the change to Visit Parc Opemican
We loved this place to much that we devoted an entire article to Parc Opemican over on We Explore Canada. Parc national d’Opémican, situated between Lac Témiscamingue and Lac Kipawa, is one of Quebec’s newest provincial parks and it’s an awfully nice introduction to the Southern Laurentians.
The Ready-to-Camp units are fantastic, and once you’re settled, you can stretch your legs with one of the short but rewarding hikes right near the Visitor Centre. Trails like Sentier des Piers and La Prucheraie are relatively easy but offer some stunning lookouts, and a chance to engage with your natural surroundings. There’s also water activities on offer, and we rented kayaks on the beach near Auberge Jodoin.
Fun fact, there was also a local concert on the night we were staying there, so we relished the chance to listen to local music in the most natural of surroundings. It was a local Québec artist, Makenzie. The strumming guitar literally carried out into the look, and reverberated back, making us feel utterly enveloped.
For those looking to dive deeper, take a scenic to the Rivière-Kipawa sector for more hiking. Trails like La Grande Chute, Inukshuk, and Paroi-aux-faucons are well worth the effort, offering views that are nothing short of spectacular. Pack a picnic to enjoy lakeside after your hike, and take your time — Opémican is the kind of place that rewards slowing down, exploring with intention, and letting the landscape leave its mark on you.
We brought food with us, and enjoyed it at a picnic site right near La Grande Chute, and it was something else.
If national parks are your forté, then you’ll probably want to take note of Aiguebelle National Park (parc national d’Aiguebelle) as well, which is most famous for its 22-metre-high suspended walkway over a gigantic fault. As you’d imagine, there’s all the opportunities here for hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and no shortage of geological phenomenon. It’s located about 50 kilometres north of Rouyn-Noranda (a city that Bri and I really enjoyed, partially because of how close it was to nature).
Attend the Festival de musique émergente en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (FME)
Festivals are a brilliant way to ingratiate yourself with the local culture, and getting media passes for FME was a fantastic excuse to explore Rouyn-Noranda.
The FME brings together around a hundred artists and bands from both the national and international alternative music scene. Expect intimate shows, a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere, and immersive musical moments that are very nicely woven into the urban landscape. There were venues all across the city from intimate cafés like L'Abstracto to larger stages such as the Scène Extérieure on 7th Street.
It was a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and the opportunity to taste local beer and eat local cuisine certainly didn’t hurt either. Seeing hometown hero Sara Dufour at la Place de la Citoyenneté was something Bri and I won’t soon forget, but some other big name local, regional, and international talent on the bill included Karkwa, Haviah Mighty, Loud Lary Ajust, NOBRO, Safia Nolin, BODEGA, Orchestra Gold, Ada Oda and The Brooks.
We stopped at Restaurant Olive Et Basil, by the way, during our explorations of the city, and we’d recommend you do the same if you like pizza, paninis and pasta! If you have extra time in the city, then stop by the Bar-Librairie Livresse as well. If you’re a book lover, then don’t miss it.
In terms of other festivals in the region to have on your map, the Festival des guitares du monde in Rouyn-Noranda is a renowned event attracting guitarists from around the globe. Val-d’Or's Festival de la relève indépendante musicale (FRIMAT) focuses on emerging independent music talents. Additionally, the Festival d'humour de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue in Val-d’Or offers a platform for comedians!
Get More context, through culture
The Musée D'art De Rouyn-Noranda. Photo Credit: Christopher Mitchell
For those interested in the region's history, the Musée minéralogique de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue in Malartic provides insights into the area's mining heritage, the Centre d’interprétation de la foresterie in La Sarre offers educational exhibits on the forestry industry's impact on the region. Religious and spiritual heritage is preserved through sites like the Cathédrale Sainte-Thérèse-d’Avila in Amos and the Circuit du patrimoine religieux et spirituel, which guides visitors through significant religious landmarks.
In terms of art institutions, we visited the Musée D'art De Rouyn-Noranda. Located in downtown Rouyn-Noranda since 2012, it offers large exhibition halls that play a significant role in the visual arts in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. It exposed us to a ton of local and regional talent that may have not been on our radar if we hadn’t popped by.
In La Sarre, the Centre d'art de La Sarre serves as a hub for local and international artists, offering exhibitions and artist residencies. Amos is home to the Centre d’exposition d’Amos, while Ville-Marie features the Centre d’exposition du Rift. Val-d’Or’s Centre VOART and Rouyn-Noranda’s Agora des Arts further enrich the region's cultural landscape, providing platforms for contemporary art and performances.
Make a stop in Ville-marie
Keep your eyes out for historic buildings in Ville-Marie. Photo Credit: Christopher Mitchell
Bri and I stopped here to walk up the main street, grab a bite, and to try the famous “Fleur de Sel” caramel chocolate at Les Chocolats Martine. We grabbed a coffee at the Caféier Brûlerie Bistro & Cafe, and a hearty breakfast at La Gaufriére.
Once filled (and politely caffeinated), we explored the historic buildings. The Maison du Frère-Moffet, built in 1881, is actually the oldest remaining structure in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and it was declared a historic monument back in 1978. If history is your thing, then you’ll probably also want to snap a few photos of the House Ville-Marie, which dates back to 1895.
Generally speaking, traversing this region requires a fair bit of driving, so when you do stop, it makes sense to get out and stretch your legs, walk up main streets, get views from the water, and to support and engage with local businesses.
stay Somewhere INteresting
The first place I’d recommend is La Bannik located in Duhamel-Ouest. It’s an ideal place to base yourself if you want to appreciate the natural wonder of the region, but it’s also not far from some cultural attractions like the Obadjiwan–Fort Témiscamingue National Historic Site.
They’re situated right on the shores of Lake Témiscamingue. They have 14 chalets—11 featuring private spas and 3 with saunas—alongside ready-to-camp trailers and cozy cabins, guests can enjoy amenities like a heated outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and beach access. We actually stayed in the main cabin, and it suited us just great.
We rented bikes from the local spot at the bottom of the stairs leading down to the water and fit in a couple of hours of cycling!
I’d also recommend doing a little camping or glamping at P’tit Paradis in Saint-Eugène-de-Guigues. Our glamping spot was great, but even better was the warm welcome we got from the owners, who invited us to pizza night when we arrived, and we mingled with other guests, as they provided all the ingredients for us to make pizzas in their wood-fired ovens. With views of Lake Sassaganigan, it was just perfect. They also do RV rentals, and welcome those with RVs.
In terms of other options, Les Racines du P’tit Isidore offers insulated yurts and a cozy cottage near the Kinojévis River, and Audacieuses Évasions features floating and on-ice cottages on Lake Preissac.
Take a look at the full map to see what’s available near where you’re heading!
Some Other Attractions to Consider when Exploring Abitibi-Temiscamingue
We’ve tried to do a pretty thorough run-through for you, but here are some other spots to consider if you’re really looking to dive in:
La Vérendrye Wildlife Reserve: Boasting over 800 lakes, making it a haven for anglers, canoeists, and wildlife observers.
Parc Héritage de Saint-Marc-de-Figuery: A reconstructed heritage village featuring a post office and blacksmith shop, offering a glimpse into 1920s rural life.
La Cité de l'Or: Experience the life of a miner by descending into the historic Lamaque gold mine in Val-d'Or.
Fossilarium de Notre-Dame-du-Nord: Home to an extensive collection of fossils, this museum provides interactive exhibits and fossil-hunting activities, making it a hit with families and geology enthusiasts.
Refuge Pageau: A sanctuary for injured or orphaned wildlife, visitors can observe moose, wolves, and bears up close while learning about conservation efforts.
Abitibi-Témiscamingue Awaits!
Perhaps the best part about our travels to Abitibi-Témiscamingue was that we hadn’t read a million articles about the places we visited, and we put our self in a position to be surprised in the best possible way. It’s a region that is coming into its own from a tourism perspective, but it’s not oversaturated, meaning that the outdoor outfitters, the owners of the respective accommodations, the museum curators, and the festival organizers — well, they’re just incredibly enthused to welcome you here.
It’s a different sort of trip, but one where you can find moments of meaning at every turn. Each drive we took, each conversation we had, meal we ate, and hike we did, we deepened our connection to Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and hopefully this article will enable you to do precisely the same.
We want to thank Abitibi-Témiscamingue for hosting us as media. All opinions expressed are completely are own.