Shawinigan - the perfect balance between city and nature

Destinations to explore, February 13, 2023 2023-02-13
quebecvacances.com
quebecvacances.com
Shawinigan Shawinigan © Raphael Sévigny

Halfway between Montréal and Québec City in the beautiful Mauricie region, Shawinigan captivates with its vast landscapes that welcome outdoor recreation and warm urban vibes. The city invites you to combine the best of both worlds and enjoy adventure and pleasure, all in good company. Here are some suggestions of things to do this winter in Shawi!

Ski de fond
Photo credit: Étienne Boisvert

Greet nature

With a ton of natural attractions and outdoor activities, you may just have a hard time deciding what to do first this winter! At La Mauricie National Park, go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing and then try out winter camping in oTENTik accommodations, halfway between a tent and a rustic cottage. Reconnect with your inner child while tubing at Val Mauricie's outdoor station, or introduce the family to winter sports at this accessible spot. Discover Melville Island Park, a natural setting with breathtaking river views just a few steps from downtown, and explore its trails on snowshoes, cross-country skis, or even fatbikes. Attention adrenaline junkies: the Vallée du Parc sliding centre will give you alpine luge style thrills! You could also take the scenic route and explore the backcountry by snowmobile.

Enjoy creature comforts in town

After all that action, enjoy some well-deserved down-time. No matter where your curiosity leads, you're never far from a warm and welcoming urban oasis. Craving a wood-fired pizza, local products, exotic flavours, or gourmet food? You’ll find all that and more, for every taste and budget. Check out local microbreweries, like Trou du Diable - a genuine institution! - or Le Broadway, where you can create your own tasting menu. Looking for creative finds? Head to the city's many boutiques that offer clothing, shoes, books, local and ecological products, original gifts, bonsai trees... there's so much to choose from! For evening entertainment, the Centre des arts de Shawinigan and the Maison de la culture Francis-Brisson will appeal to fans of theater, comedy, and music.

bonne table
Photo credit: Raphael Sévigny

Ask the locals!

Who better than the denizens of Shawinigan to offer you advice on what to do in their great city? Discover locals’ favourites, and see this beloved city through their eyes. Check out the spots they adore, including their favourite activities, restaurants, and hiking trails, and make your stay extraordinary and personal!

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