The Most Beautiful Lakes in the Laurentians: 10 Places to Swim 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.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Beach
- Kayak
- Canoe
- Hiking
- Picnic
Services available
- Boat Rentals
- Parking
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Camping
- On-Site Accommodation
- Convenience Store
- Equipment Rentals
Good to know
The lake is accessible to day visitors. An admission fee applies, and some activities, such as boat rentals, are available at an additional cost.
Our Pick: If you want to combine swimming, outdoor activities and accommodation without having to go back on the road, Legault Lake is an excellent choice.
Want to extend your stay? Discover L’Interval’s cottages, lodges, campsites and inn, and make the most of your time in the heart of the Laurentians.
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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, Lac des Sables is a popular destination for enjoying a day by the water in the Laurentians. Its beaches, outdoor activities and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular spot for families and nature lovers alike.
In addition to swimming, the lake offers a variety of water activities and a walking trail, as well as an on-site campground for those who wish to extend their stay. Nearby, Major Beach offers several services to make your visit even more enjoyable.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Water Activities
- Sailing
- Fishing
- Camping
- Walking Trail
Good to know
Major Beach is open during the summer season and offers a swimming area, picnic tables, restrooms and several other amenities. Check opening hours, access conditions and available services on the official website 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
Lac Tremblant: A Beach with Spectacular Mountain Views
Lac Tremblant is one of the most iconic destinations in the Laurentians. With its sandy beach and views of Mont Tremblant, it offers an ideal setting for enjoying a summer day with family or friends.
In addition to swimming, visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, take advantage of the on-site facilities, or simply relax by the water.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Kayaking and Other Water Activities
- Children’s Playground
- Beach volleyball
Good to know
The beach is supervised during the summer season. Boat rentals, a restaurant-bar and a shop are also available nearby.
Ideal for: Families, water sports enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy beautiful scenery.
Learn More
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-visit destination for nature lovers. Surrounded by forests, it’s the perfect place to spend a day swimming, hiking and discovering the landscapes of the Laurentians.
Whether you want to paddle on the lake or explore the park’s trails, this destination offers a complete outdoor experience.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Kayak
- Canoe
- Paddleboarding
- Hiking
Good to know
The Lake Monroe area includes several beaches, including La Crémaillère and Lac-Provost, where swimming is permitted. You can also rent a canoe or kayak to explore the lake. Since cellular service is limited in the park, it is recommended to download your itinerary before your visit.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers and water activity enthusiasts.
Learn More
👉 Visit the official page of Mount Tremblant National Park (Sépaq)
Grand lac Nominingue
Grand lac Nominingue: An Ideal Destination for Enjoying the Summer
With its vast body of water and natural surroundings, Grand lac Nominingue is a popular destination for outdoor activities and beach days. Its peaceful setting makes it an excellent place to relax with family, friends or as a couple.
The municipal beach, located on the shores of the lake, offers a designated swimming area and several amenities to make your visit more enjoyable.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Beach
- Beach volleyball
- Picnic
Good to know
The municipal beach is supervised daily during the summer season. You’ll also find restroom facilities, a picnic area and nearby parking.
Ideal for: families, groups of friends and visitors looking to enjoy a day at the beach.
Learn More
👉 View the Nominingue Municipal Beach page on the Tourisme Laurentides website..
Lac Raymond (Val-Morin)
Lac Raymond: A Family-Friendly Beach in Val-Morin
Lac Raymond is an ideal destination for a day of swimming in a peaceful setting. Its municipal beach, located in Val-Morin, is popular with families thanks to its natural surroundings and supervised swimming area during the summer season.
In addition to enjoying the beach, visitors can launch a non-motorized watercraft to explore the lake while respecting its natural environment.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Beach
- Non-motorized watercraft
Good to know
The beach is supervised 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 and parking fees may apply to non-residents.
Ideal for: families and visitors looking for a quiet and safe beach.
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Lac Mercier (Mont-Tremblant)
Lac Mercier: An Ideal Sandy Beach to Cool Off
Lac Mercier is known for its peaceful atmosphere and sandy beach, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. It is a popular spot for visitors looking to enjoy a natural setting while staying close to Mont-Tremblant.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Relaxing on the beach
Good to know
Swimming is permitted only in designated areas. Boats, camping and pets are not allowed on the beach. Before your visit, check the current access conditions and regulations on the official website.
Ideal for: visitors looking for a sandy beach to relax and enjoy the summer.
Learn More
Lac Carré (Mont-Blanc)
Lac Carré: A Welcoming Beach in the Heart of Mont-Blanc
Lac Carré is an ideal destination for a day by the water in the Laurentians. Its free public beach, located in the heart of the village of Mont-Blanc, offers a pleasant setting for swimming and relaxing with family or friends.
In addition to the beach, visitors can enjoy a picnic area and, at certain times, borrow a kayak or paddleboard free of charge to explore the lake.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Kayak (free loan at scheduled times)
- Paddleboard (free loan at scheduled times)
- Picnic
Good to know
The beach is supervised 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.
Learn More
👉 View the Lac Carré municipal beach page on Tourisme Laurentides.
Ideal for:
Lac Saint-Joseph (Laurentides)
Lac Saint-Joseph: A Peaceful Retreat for Nature Lovers
Located in the heart of the village of Lac-Saint-Joseph, Lac Saint-Joseph is a popular destination known for its beautiful scenery and easy access. Connected to Lac Sainte-Marie and Lac Théodore, it offers an ideal setting for a day by the water.
The popular Gratton Municipal Beach welcomes visitors throughout the summer and is a perfect place to spend time with family or friends.
Things to Do
- Swimming
- Recreational boating
- Relaxing on the beach
- Scenic views
Good to know
The lake is navigable and easily accessible from the heart of the village. Gratton Municipal Beach is open during the summer season and is one of the area's main attractions.
Ideal for: families, boaters and visitors looking to enjoy an easily accessible lake in a natural setting.
Learn More
👉 Find more information about Lac Saint-Joseph and Gratton Municipal Beach.
Lac Nantel (Mont-Blanc)
Lac Nantel: An Ideal Destination for Hiking and Nature
Lac Nantel is best known for its hiking trails and natural surroundings. It is an excellent destination for those looking to spend an active day exploring the Laurentians before relaxing by the lake.
The area is also known for its scenic viewpoints and backcountry camping accessible by hiking trails.
Things to Do
- Hiking
- Backcountry camping
- Scenic views
- Photography
Good to know
Several trails run through the area, including a section of Le P’tit Train du Nord. Bring appropriate footwear and plenty of water if you plan to explore the surrounding area.
Ideal for: hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Which Lake in the Laurentians Will You Choose?
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly beach, a place to go kayaking or simply a peaceful spot to enjoy nature, the Laurentians are home to many beautiful lakes waiting to be discovered.
If you want to combine swimming, hiking, water activities and accommodation in one place, L’Interval is an excellent destination for extending your getaway.
👉 Plan Your Next Visit to L’Interval