Your Next Adventure
Your Next Adventure
P'tit Train du Nord Bike Tour
Trip Overview
Embark on an exciting 6-day cycling adventure through the picturesque valleys and mountains surrounding Montreal in the lovely province of Quebec, following Le P’tit Train du Nord (Little Train of the North), a hidden gem in the heart of the Laurentians. This trail is a 160-mile linear park offers cyclists scenic riding through breathtaking countryside, charming towns and villages … and an easy no-traffic route, which is well-signed and perfect for cycling. Along the trail, former railway stations have been transformed into museums and cafés, providing excellent points of interest for visitors. The trail's name honors the Le P’tit Train du Nord, a train that transported passengers and luggage between Mont-Laurier in the north and Saint-Jérôme in the south, built between 1891 and 1901. After the train ceased service in 1981, the old railway bed was converted into a multi-use trail for everyone to enjoy.
Throughout the tour, you stay at some of the most charming and unique boutique hotels in the area, where you are treated with warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine. Indulge in the region's delicacies such as croissants, crepes, pea soup, and poutine — a savory dish of French fries and cheese curds smothered in gravy, and more. Each day, you explore the area's natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural landmarks, discovering new vistas and experiences.
Surfaces for this tour: 76% Paved and 24% Gravel.
Itinerary
From start to finish, check out the route.
Begin your trip at one of two places: either meet at Hotel Vermont in Burlington for a shuttle to Montreal or at the Hilton Garden Inn at the Montreal Airport. After a brief introductory meeting, have lunch and then finish the drive to the northern terminus of the trail in Mont-Laurier. There you are fitted to your bike and have time to settle in before heading to dinner at Lémarettes, featuring gourmet cuisine showcasing local Quebec products.
This morning you begin your cycling journey. You bike a short distance from the hotel to the official start of the P’tit Train du Nord route. Make sure to take a photo at the start of the route — it’s a tradition. As you cycle along the trail today, pass through picturesque peat bogs and serene wooded countryside with peek-a-boo views of ponds tucked away in the trees. You can travel back through time, if you wish, by stopping to read the numerous interpretive signs along the route. Stop for a picnic lunch mid-route to refuel yourself for the rest of the ride. Then continue pedaling until you reach the Le Club et Hôtel du Golf Nominingue. Dinner will be at Restaurant le 2100.
After a hearty breakfast at the auberge, begin today’s pedal. The first few miles of the morning will take you along the shores of Lac Nominingue. From there, the trail turns to follow the Rivière-Rouge. When you pass through the town that bears the river’s name, stop to explore the train station (“gare,” in French) that was built in 1903. Next you pedal through La Macaza, which was colonized by immigrants who arrived via the same route you are now cycling. Have a group lunch at Le Cheminot, which is located in the old train station at Labelle. Built in 1924, this edifice is one of the most magnificent stations in the province. After lunch, cycle past pastures of lambs, sheepdogs, horses, and Galloway cattle. In your final miles of the day, make sure to stop by the old train station on the east side of Lac Mercier. Consider treating yourself to a relaxing latte or a cold beer and a refreshing dip in the lake. You end your ride at the village of Mont Tremblant, where you spend the next two nights. You’re on your own for dinner tonight, so enjoy the evening as you wish.
Today is your day to explore Mont Tremblant, known to the local Algonquins as the “trembling mountain.” The area is a popular ski resort in the winter. In other seasons, it’s a gathering place for events such as the Ironman and Formula One. There is so much to do and see today. Consider taking the gondola to the top of the mountain for impressive 360° views. You can then walk down from the top, visiting shops and restaurants along the way. Other things to do include hiking, boating, rafting, horseback riding, ziplining, taking a dune buggy tour, watching a birds of prey show, playing in a virtual reality arcade, or flying in a helicopter or an ultralight aircraft over the area. Of course, biking is an option as well. There’s an optional route that is popular with the locals. Make sure you dedicate at least a little of the day to resting, as tomorrow is a full day of riding on the trail. You’re on your own for breakfast and lunch; there are plenty of options for both in the village. Meet in the lobby later this evening to walk to A Mano Trattoria, a popular Italian restaurant.
Today begins with a filling on-site breakfast at Le Comptoir. You can either begin your ride from the hotel or allow the shuttle to take you to a starting point further along the route. Consider an optional walk on the Sentier des Cimes Laurentides (aka “The Laurentian Peaks Treetop Trail”). An ecotourism destination for nature lovers, this trail includes a wooden footbridge through the forest to a 130-ft (40-meter) observation tower where you can enjoy a unique panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Once back on your bike, visit the Mont Blanc station, built in 1893, where you find a number of impressive sculptures such as the “Tree of Love.” As you pass through Val-David, you ride along the gorgeous Rivière du Nord, as sounds of the rapids from one of the wildest parts of the river fill your ears. On today’s route, you also pass gardens of herbs used for making teas as well as the Coupe-de-Pierre, which is two large rock walls on either side of the path. You’re on your own for lunch — suggestions are provided along the route. You end your pedaling at the Manoir St Sauveur. Have a celebration this evening at a local restaurant in honor of our final evening together.
The final day starts with an early morning breakfast delivered to your room. After filling your belly, pack up your belongings and head out for the final miles of the trail. Today you ride past the cliffs of Prévost. Keep your eyes peeled, as the escarpments are home to many species of birds of prey. Stop at the nearby heritage station dating from 1897, where you can purchase a memento from your trip. Make sure to take your photo at the end of the route under the arch with the trail’s name – it’s a tradition, too. Having seen new landscapes and made new memories, have a final lunch together before making the trek back to where you started in Montreal or Vermont.
Map
Dates & Pricing
Prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). Single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. A deposit of $750 holds your reservation for most tours. For tours less than 6 days, the deposit is $500.
What’s Included
5 nights' lodging, 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners, donation to support the P’tit Train du Nord trail. Free transfer at one time provided from/to Hotel Vermont in Burlington or at the Hilton Garden Inn at the Montreal Airport. We also include detailed maps and itineraries, experienced guides, full van support — plus use of a bike and helmet. Up to 8 e-bikes per departure at no extra charge. Airfare is not included.
Dates & Pricing
Prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). Single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. A deposit of $750 holds your reservation for most tours. For tours less than 6 days, the deposit is $500.
What’s Included
5 nights' lodging, 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners, donation to support the P’tit Train du Nord trail. Free transfer at one time provided from/to Hotel Vermont in Burlington or at the Hilton Garden Inn at the Montreal Airport. We also include detailed maps and itineraries, experienced guides, full van support — plus use of a bike and helmet. Up to 8 e-bikes per departure at no extra charge. Airfare is not included.
Inns
Where you stay along the way.
Gallery
Images from this tour. Click each to see it larger.
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