The most beautiful lakes in the Laurentians: 10 places to bathe this summer
The most beautiful lakes in the Laurentians attract thousands of visitors every summer looking for beaches, nautical activities and natural landscapes. With its mountains, forests and many water bodies, the Laurentian region is an ideal destination to enjoy the summer.
Whether you are planning a day outing, a weekend or a family holiday, you will find a lake suitable for your desires. Some attract by their sandy beaches, others by their calm waters perfect for kayaking or canoeing, while several allow to combine swimming, hiking and accommodation.
In this guide, we selected 10 beautiful lakes of the Laurentians to help you choose your next summer destination.
The most beautiful lakes in the Laurentians: which one to choose?
Each lake has its atmosphere and its peculiarities. Here is a quick overview to find the one that best fits your desires.
| You're looking... | Our recommendation |
|---|---|
| Family Day | Lac Legault, Lac des Sables |
| kayaking | Lake Legault, Lake Monroe |
| Camp by water | Lake Legault, Grand Lac Nominingue |
| An animated beach | Lac des Sables |
| A quieter place | Lake Mercier |
| Combine swimming and hiking | Lake Legault, Lake Monroe |
Why choose a Lake Laurentides for your vacation?
Lakes of the Laurentians are not all alike. Some are perfect for a day at the beach, others invite you to explore nature by kayak or canoe, while many offer access to hiking trails, picnic areas or even nearby accommodation.
Thanks to their proximity to Montreal and the variety of activities offered, the Laurentians are a top destination for a summer getaway, whether you are with family, friends or a couple.
Lake Legault (Sainte-Lucie-des-Laurentides)
Legault Lake: an open-air day in L
Located in Saint-Lucie-des-Laurentides, Legault Lake is one of the best places in the region to enjoy a day in the wilderness. Easily accessible to overnight visitors, it combines beach, water activities, hiking and accommodation on the same site, making it an ideal destination for families, couples and outdoor enthusiasts.
Unlike several municipal beaches, a visit to Legault Lake allows you to experience a true nature experience. After a swim, you can go hiking, rent a canoe or kayak, picnic by the water or extend your stay in one of the accommodation in L的Interval.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Range
- Kayak
- Canoe
- Hiking
- Picnic
Services available
- Rental of boats
- Parking
- Toilets
- Showers
- Camping
- Accommodation on site
- Breaker
- Rental of equipment
Good to know
The lake is accessible to visitors for a day. Access fees are charged and certain activities, such as boat rental, are offered as a supplement.
Our crush: If you want to combine swimming, outdoor activities and accommodation without having to go back on the road, Legault Lake is an excellent choice.
Would you like to extend your day? Discover the chalets, gîtes, campings and the Inn in the heart of the Laurentians.
@amandinedujardin
Lac des Sables (Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts)
Lake des Sables: a must-see destination in the heart of Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts
Located in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Lake des Sables is a popular destination to enjoy a day by the water in the Laurentians. Its beaches, outdoor activities and welcoming surroundings make it a popular place for families and nature lovers alike.
In addition to swimming, the lake allows you to enjoy different nautical activities, enjoy a walking corridor or extend your stay thanks to the campsite located on the site. Nearby, Major Beach offers several services to make your visit even more enjoyable.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Nautical activities
- Sailing
- Fisheries
- Camping
- Walking corridor
Good to know
Major Beach is open during the summer season and includes a swimming area, picnic tables, toilets and several other services. Consult the schedules, conditions of access and services offered on the official site of the City of Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts.
👉 Official website of the City of Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts
Ideal for: families and visitors who want to combine beach, activities and urban life.
Lac Tremblant – Mont-Tremblant
Lake Tremblant: a beach with spectacular mountain views
Lake Tremblant is one of the most emblematic destinations in the Laurentians. With its sandy beach and views of Mount Tremblant, it offers an ideal setting to enjoy a summer day with family or friends.
In addition to swimming, visitors can enjoy different nautical activities, on-site facilities or simply relax by the water.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Kayak and other nautical activities
- Playground for children
- Beach volleyball
Good to know
The beach is monitored during the summer season. Services such as boat rental, restaurant bar and shop are also nearby
Ideal for: families, water port enthusiasts and those who want to enjoy a beautiful landscape.
Further information
Lake Monroe (Mont-Tremblant National Park)
Lake Monroe: a getaway in the heart of the national park
Located in Mont-Tremblant National Park, Lake Monroe is a must for nature lovers. Surrounded by forests, it allows you to enjoy a day combining swimming, hiking and discovering the landscapes of the Laurentians.
Whether you want to paddling on the lake or walking the park trails, this destination offers a complete outdoor experience.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Kayak
- Canoe
- Pagay board
- Hiking
Good to know
The Lake Monroe area includes several beaches, including those of La Crémaillère and Lac-Provost, where swimming is permitted. It is also possible to rent a canoe or kayak to explore the lake. As the cellular network is limited in the park, it is recommended to download your itinerary before your visit.
Ideal for: lovers of nature, hiking and nautical activities.
Further information
👉 Visit the official page of Mount Tremblant National Park (Sépaq)
Grand Lake Nominingue
The Grand Lake Nominingue: an ideal destination to enjoy the summer
With its huge water and natural environment, the Grand Lac Nominingue is a popular destination for outdoor activities and beach days. Its peaceful setting makes it an excellent choice to relax with family, friends or couple.
The municipal beach, located by the lake, allows you to enjoy swimming in an equipped environment, while offering several services to make your visit enjoyable.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Range
- Beach volleyball
- Picnic
Good to know
The municipal beach is monitored daily during the summer season. There is also a sanitary block, a picnic area and nearby parking.
Ideal for: families, groups of friends and visitors who want to enjoy a day at the beach.
Further information
👉 See the description of the municipal beach of Nominingue on Tourisme Laurentides.
Lake Raymond (Val-Morin)
Lake Raymond: a family beach in Val-Morin
Lake Raymond is an ideal destination to enjoy a day of swimming in a peaceful environment. Its municipal beach, located in Val-Morin, is appreciated by families thanks to its natural setting and supervised bathing area during the summer season.
In addition to the beach, visitors can launch a non-motorized boat to discover the lake in accordance with its environment.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Range
- Non-motorized vessels
Good to know
The beach is monitored from Wednesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer season. Outside these hours, access to the beach remains permitted, but swimming is prohibited. Access fees and parking charges may apply to non-residents.
Ideal for: families and visitors looking for a quiet and safe beach.
Further information
Lake Mercier (Mont-Tremblant)
Lake Mercier: an ideal sandy beach to cool down
Lake Mercier is renowned for its quiet atmosphere and sandy beach, perfect for refreshing during hot days. It is a popular place for visitors who want to enjoy a natural environment while staying close to Mont-Tremblant.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Relax on the beach
Good to know
Bathing is permitted only in designated areas. Boats, camping and animals are not allowed on the beach. Before your visit, consult the terms and conditions of access and the regulations in force on the official website.
Ideal for: visitors looking for a sandy beach to relax and enjoy the summer.
Further information
Lac Carré (Mont-Blanc)
Lake Carré: a friendly beach in the heart of Mont-Blanc
Lake Carré is an ideal destination to enjoy a day at the waterfront in the Laurentians. Its free public beach, located in the heart of the village of Mont-Blanc, offers a pleasant environment for swimming and relaxation with family or friends.
In addition to the beach, visitors can enjoy a picnic area and, at times, take a free kayak or paddleboard to discover the lake.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Kayak (ready according to schedule)
- Paving board (ready according to schedule)
- Picnic
Good to know
The beach is monitored during the summer season. Washrooms, free parking and a picnic area are available on site.
Ideal for: families and visitors looking for an easily accessible beach.
Further information
👉 See the description of the municipal beach of Lake Carré on Tourisme Laurentides.
Ideal for:
Lac Saint-Joseph (Laurentides)
Lake Saint-Joseph: a haven of peace for nature lovers
Located in the heart of the village of Lac-Saint-Joseph, Lake Saint-Joseph is a popular destination for its beautiful landscapes and easy access. Connected to lakes Sainte-Marie and Théodore, it offers an ideal environment to enjoy a day by the water.
The popular Gratton Municipal Beach welcomes visitors throughout the summer and is a perfect place to meet with family or friends.
Activities to be undertaken
- Swimming
- Recreational navigation
- Relax on the beach
- Landscape observation
Good to know
The lake is navigable and easily accessible from the heart of the village. The Gratton Municipal Beach is open during the summer season and is one of the main attractions of the area.
Ideal for: families, boaters and visitors who wish to enjoy an accessible lake in a natural setting.
Further information
👉 Check out information on Lake Saint-Joseph and the Gratton Municipal Beach.
Lake Nantel (Mont Blanc)
Lake Nantel: an ideal destination to combine hiking and nature
Lake Nantel is best known for its hiking trails and natural environment. It is an excellent destination for those who want to spend an active day exploring the Laurentians before enjoying a relaxing moment by the lake.
The area is also appreciated for its views and rustic camping accessible by hiking.
Activities to be undertaken
- Hiking
- Rustic campsite
- Landscape observation
- Photography
Good to know
The area is traversed by several trails, including a portion of the Northern Train. Plan good shoes and water if you want to explore the surrounding area.
Ideal for: hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Which Lake of the Laurentians will you choose?
Whether you're looking for a family beach, a place to kayak or simply a peaceful spot to enjoy nature, the Laurentians are full of beautiful lakes to discover.
If you want to combine swimming, hiking, water activities and accommodation in the same place, Interval is an excellent destination to extend your getaway.
👉 Plan your next visit to L