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Downhill skiing is the draw here in winter, but in summer the artisans’ shops, restaurants and galleries tempt visitors to town.

The historic homes in this laid-back village were built to house workers of the Rolland Mill, once the main employer of this forested domain.

Spectacular outdoor recreation within easy reach of Montréal attracted the first tourist train to Ste-Adèle in 1891, and the town continues to welcome ski enthusiasts today.

This lush, rolling area includes Ste-Marguerite-du-Lac-Masson, the village where renowned artist Jean-Paul Riopelle painted for many years. The area was originally developed by a Belgian aristocrat in the 1930s.

Along the P’tit Train du Nord cycle path, this tiny Francophone village beguiles visitors as the trail meanders around Lac Raymond. Skiers can enjoy slopes at Belle Neige.

An enthralling town peppered with art galleries, music and poetry festivals, and mountain-biking contests.

With its fishing, swimming and skiing, this became the first resort in les Laurentides over 100 years ago.

The gateway to the Mont-Tremblant commercial district, the village of St-Jovite offers visitors boutiques and traditional Québecois restaurants. Visit the palatial Monastère des Apôtres de l’Amour Infini just east of town.

This is the highest peak in les Laurentides at over 900 m (2,950 ft) and one of the most popular ski resorts in North America. Spas, shops, excellent dining and live entertainment all add to the appeal.

The largest of an awe-inspiring inventory of provincial parks, it provides a safe haven for black bears, white-tailed deer, moose, wolves, and raccoons, and over 200 species of birds. Outdoor activities include hiking, canoeing, fishing, and cross-country skiing.