SAINT-ALEXIS-DES-MONTS | If you are looking for an interesting snowmobile destination with excellent service and the opportunity to practice various activities, you should have a visit to the Auberge du Lac-à-l'Eau-Claire outfitter in Mauricie on your agenda.
• Also read: Outfitters can welcome you in winter
Located two hours from Quebec and an hour and a half from Montreal in the municipality of Saint-Alexis-des-Monts, this outfitter can be considered a winter outdoor base.
“We have a great way to welcome snowmobilers, whether they come on the trails or with their van and trailer. “If someone wants to discover snowmobiling and doesn’t have a machine, they can rent one from us,” explains operations manager Philippe Tousignant. In addition to the region's accessibility via the various hiking trails, snowmobilers who stay with us can enjoy numerous activities. »
Snowmobilers are welcome at the outfitter, whether they are experts or beginners. Photo provided by Lac-à-l'Eau-Claire
For snowmobilers who want to go directly to the outfitter, you will need to turn north on trail 349 very close to Saint-Alexis-des-Monts and then have direct access to the area.
“From here, snowmobilers can go to the Mastigouche Reserve and explore the entire region. For people who want to rent a snowmobile, we offer two-hour or one-day rides with or without a guide. It is certain that after assessing the participants' skills in driving a snowmobile, we will propose routes adapted to their abilities. We want people to have fun with us. »
Among the available packages there is one called “Winter Power”. “For us it is a way to introduce people to snowmobiling and our activities,” the director continues. So people come to us for two nights, including certain meals and a day of snowmobiling for two people, including clothing, oil and gas. You can also do other activities that we offer in winter. »
Other activities
During your stay, you have the opportunity to practice various activities on site between two snowmobile excursions.
First of all, there is ice fishing.
“We offer ice fishing at Bienvenue Lake, with a maximum of ten brown trout or rainbow trout allowed per angler. We provide the equipment, drill the holes, and a guide advises people on how to be successful. We also installed a wooden structure, a bit like a small gallery, where the guide can fillet the trout and offer them to the fans with his secret recipe. The rigs are fully equipped so anglers only need to attach their bait. »
The second option available to you is a dog sled ride.
“We organize one-hour trips with five sleighs each. There are two people in each, one sitting and one standing at the back. A guide accompanies the group. He takes the lead with his sleigh. This package is offered in collaboration with Fred Manseau's 100 Lakes Expedition, an expert in the field. Great experience in sledding is not required. »
Other activities are also offered.
“There is off-piste snowshoeing, ice skating on an ice rink or on an illuminated track in the middle of the forest, cross-country skiing, sliding and more.” Of course, our health center with its semi-Olympic swimming pool is also available to visitors. A stay with us is truly special,” concludes Philippe Tousignant.
A whole organization
On site there is the activity center where you will find all the equipment you need to practice any activity. The illuminated forest path is accessible 24 hours a day. So if you get skates before the center closes, you can also skate at night.
When it comes to accommodation, the outfitter offers a very unique offering. There is the Auberge, which offers different room types. You also have the option to stay in a chalet, condo, or lodge. There really is something for every taste and budget. Whatever you choose, you will always enjoy comfort and quality services.
After all, food is not a problem. In the Auberge's dining room you will find a menu that is sure to offer you what you are looking for.
To find out more about the costs related to the practice of activities or accommodation, you can consult the website lacaleauclaire.com or call 819 265-3185 or toll free 1 877 265-3185.