Canadian adventure No2!

After travelling through the Rockies on several occasions, we decided it was time to explore another region of Canada.

Having bought timeshare out there during one of our trips we had a good choice of superb places to stay.

It was going to be a 7 night visit during late September so we were hoping to see the autumn colours.

We chose Tremblant as the Club Intratwest location for our visit as we know the standard of accommodation is good. The nearest international airport was Montreal so we booked to fly there from London Heathrow. Next was a hire car and we always try a book a small SUV as these give you a good view and are better suited to some of the logging tracks that run through most of the forest areas.

So all booked and off we go!

Tremblant is a purpose built holiday village, which is a popular ski resort in winter and a great walking and cycling region at any other time of year. It is a gentle 75 mile drive from the airport and normally take no more than 90 minutes. It always amazes me how quiet the main highways are once you leave the cities of Canada. There is a big supermarket on the main highway just before you turn off so we always stop there to stock up as there is more choice than in the village itself.

The road that leads to the resort from the main highway is well signposted and as good as our main roads here. On this route there are some stunning golf courses for those that play and it is no unusual to see deer wandering across the roads and surrounding areas. We very often had deer wander past our windows at the resort.

After unpacking in our split-level accommodation, we took a 10 minute walk to the village centre to sample one of the many eateries available.

The next day we decided to have a drive into the Tremblant National Park, about a 20 min drive from the village. Knowing that cafes and shops are few and far between, we took flasks and snacks with us.

A with most of the National Parks in Canada, there is an entry fee to help with the upkeep and we never begrudge paying as the scenery along is worth the cost.

As we drove into the park I had to stop and grab a photo of a rainbow that appeared following a short hard shower. The problem that then followed was me stopping every 5 minutes to get pictures of the trees and lakes. The colours were stunning! I have never seen leaves that are such a bright red mixed with gold’s and browns. With these set against a bright blue sky, the views were spectacular.

There are numerous lakes and waterfalls to visit and all are well sign posted with good footpaths from their designated car parks. Not only are the distances displayed but also how easy the route is to walk.

It was getting near to lunchtime and we though we would find a nice spot to take a break and enjoy our snacks. We came across a lay-by with a lake each side of the road. With the engine switched off and the windows and door open we started our picnic. The silence was deafening! All we could hear was a few birds singing. After about 10 minutes we heard the most amazing sound. In the distance we could hear wolves howling. It went on for about 15 minutes and was a sound we will never forget. Absolutely stunning! We were very lucky and have never heard it since!

Those 7 days few past and as you might have guessed, we have been back since. Whilst not as mountainous as the Rockies, still a spectacular place to see with plenty to do. For anybody that enjoys cycling, they have tarmac covered the route of an old railway line and is a wonderful way to see the countryside. There are also boat trips on the lake and float plane rides.

The story continues…….

A stunning country with wonderful people and if you enjoy spectacular scenery it is a must. More photos of our travels at www.carter-creative.com

Click here to read Canadian Adventure No1