Some days stay with you forever — when time seems to slow down, and every moment feels like a perfect snapshot. In the Laurentians, this magic happens naturally.
Here, mountains ripple like a frozen sea, lakes mirror the sky with almost surreal intensity, and villages exude Quebec’s art of living.
Staying in a Chalets Zenya property already means choosing the exceptional. But dedicating an entire day to exploring the region takes the experience to a whole new level.
Whether you’re here as a couple, with family, or with friends, this day trip will guide you step-by-step to the very best the Laurentians have to offer: breathtaking nature, local gastronomy, authentic encounters, and deep relaxation.
8:00 AM – A Gentle Wake-Up at your Chalet Zenya property
Morning at a Chalets Zenya property is an experience in itself. The first rays of sunlight stream through large bay windows, playing across the clean lines of the décor. The air is crisp, carrying hints of forest and warmed wood, blending perfectly with the aroma of freshly ground coffee.
Take your time. Settle on the terrace with your mug, let your gaze drift across the scenery, and savor the inhabited silence, broken only by birdsong or the rustle of leaves. It’s in this serene atmosphere that you prepare for your day.
Zenya tip: prepare a gourmet breakfast with local products — rustic breads, homemade jams, artisan cheeses, and fresh fruit — to start light in spirit but full of energy.
9:00 AM – Head to the Sentier des Cimes: A New Perspective
About 20 minutes’ drive from Saint-Faustin, the Sentier des Cimes Laurentides is one of the region’s most spectacular experiences. This elevated wooden walkway winds above the forest canopy for 1.3 km, ending in a stunning 40-meter-high panoramic tower.
As you climb, each level offers a new perspective: first the ferns and trunks, then the vibrant canopy, and finally, a 360° view over the mountains, valleys, and shimmering lakes. Depending on the season, the colors change dramatically: deep green in summer, a blaze of reds and golds in autumn, sparkling white in winter, or soft shades of green in spring.
Why it’s a Zenya favorite:
- Accessible to all, including strollers and wheelchairs
- Immersive and educational (interpretive panels on local flora and fauna)
- Open year-round, offering a unique perspective with each season
Practical tip: allow 1.5 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the site, take photos, and relax at the top.
11:00 AM – On to Val-David: A Village of Art and Flavor
Leaving the Sentier des Cimes, head to Val-David, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Laurentians, about 25 minutes away. It’s the perfect place to stroll the streets, admire local artwork, and discover Quebec craftsmanship.
Don’t miss:
- Art galleries and boutiques: pottery, glasswork, jewelry, textiles — each shop feels like a mini gallery.
- The public market (seasonal): a concentration of local flavors, perfect for stocking up for dinner.
- Parc régional Val-David–Val-Morin: for a short, scenic hike along the Rivière du Nord.
12:00 PM – Lunch With Local Flavor
Val-David and its surroundings are full of places where local products shine. Here are some Zenya picks:
- Le Mouton Noir: creative cuisine with local influences in a warm setting.
- La Station B: a welcoming, warm bistro offering characterful cuisine that blends passion, flavor, and expertise.
- L’Épicurieux: for those seeking a refined gastronomic experience.
Zenya tip: book ahead, especially in high season.
2:00 PM – An Afternoon Your Way
Your Laurentians afternoon can take many forms, depending on your mood and the season.
Nature and relaxation:
Head to Plage Major or Plage Tessier (Saint-Sauveur) for a relaxing time by the water. These family-friendly beaches are ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply lounging.
Culture and discovery:
Visit galleries and artisan studios in Sainte-Adèle, or explore the pedestrian village of Mont-Tremblant for a mix of shopping, entertainment, and stunning views.
Active adventure:
Rent a bike and ride the P’tit Train du Nord, the region’s iconic trail following rivers, lakes, and forests for miles.
5:00 PM – Back to your Chalet Zenya property: Serenity Restored
After a day full of discoveries, returning to your chalet becomes a cherished ritual. Fill the outdoor hot tub, prepare an aperitif with your market finds, and let your physical tiredness melt into pure relaxation.
Ideas to extend the evening:
- Book an on-site massage with one of our partner therapists
- Host a raclette or fondue night with local cheeses and charcuterie
- Enjoy an outdoor fire under a blanket, stargazing
In Every Season: Magic Happens
What makes the Laurentians special is their ability to offer an unforgettable experience in every season.
- Summer: swimming, hiking, cycling, public markets
- Fall: fiery panoramas, apple picking, food festivals
- Winter: alpine skiing, snowshoeing, skating along forest trails
- Spring: sugar shacks, birdwatching, the return of farmers’ markets
This itinerary can easily be adapted for any time of year.
Zenya Practical Tips
- Ideal duration: one full day for this itinerary, but two if you want to explore at a slower pace.
- Transport: a car is recommended to link each stop easily.
- Reservations: some activities and restaurants require advance booking, especially in summer and fall.
- Gear: dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and pack a camera.
Conclusion: A Day That Measures Up to Your Expectations
Spending a day exploring the Laurentians from a Zenya chalet is about combining discreet luxury with untamed nature. It’s a complete experience: gaining new perspectives at the Sentier des Cimes, savoring local products, discovering lively villages, and ending the day in a cocoon of comfort.
Here, every moment counts, every landscape inspires, and every return to the chalet carries a promise: naturally, you’ll come back.
