Abitibi-Temiscamingue
Portrait of the region
Abitibi-Témiscamingue, contrary to popular belief, lies in the western part of Quebec, skirting the natural frontier of Ontario. From north to south, its 65,000 km2 of lavish forests, fish-rich waters, dynamic cities and picturesque villages stretch from the 47th to the 49th parallel. Nearly 145,000 persons have chosen to live in Abitibi-Témiscamingue.
Our closeness to our roots, which are still quite young, has nurtured our determination to make this land our home and to build a healthy life of exceptional quality.
Abitibi-Témiscamingue’s history is closely linked to natural resources development. The region came into being in the late 18th century with the discovery of its agricultural and mining riches. However there is evidence of Algonquin occupation in the region for more than 8,000 years. Their contribution to the region’s growth is very significant and their heritage can still be felt and seen in seven communities.
The 22,000 lakes and rivers found in Abitibi-Témiscamingue have had a catalytic effect on regional growth. The only passageway for more than two hundred years, water provided explorers the means to travel the region. Lakes and rivers are still key assets to the people of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and the development of this vital resource constitutes a major issue.
If the northern part of the region is well known for the abundance of its mining potential and its boreal forest, the southern part has earned recognition for its fertile soil and mixed stands. From north to south, the diversity of wildlife, flora and relief make the region unique. When you visit Abitibi-Témiscamingue, you visit two regions in one that are connected by the watershed divide, not by a hyphen. On one side, water travels north to James Bay and on the other, it flows south and drains into the St. Lawrence River.
Eager to show you our area, we have developed a wide range of deserving sites, fascinating attractions and festive events that truly reflect our authenticity. One visit to Abitibi-Témiscamingue is enough to discover a collectivity bubbling with ideas, contrasting landscapes and lakes traveling far and wide. It is with immense pleasure that the people of Abitibi-Témiscamingue welcome you with open arms!
Nature, omnipresent, is dear to us. It has played a significant role in our history and concurs to our friendly and hospitable nature. The seasons of the year are sources of inspiration for creating activities that shape our lifestyle. Come and discover them!
Summer
Vivid. Vibrant. Vigorous. Summer offers a whirl of events, sites and attractions donning the regional colors. Don’t worry! The temperature, oscillating between 21 °C and 23 °C in average, enables you to enjoy fully what we have to offer.
Summer is ideal to learn about our history and traditions: Cité de l’Or, Refuge Pageau, Parc national d’Aiguebelle, Paradis du Nord and Lieu historique national du Canada du Fort-Témiscamingue National Historic Site are must-see attractions as starters.
In the summertime, not a single weekend goes by without a festival. The festival organizers, gifted with endless imagination, and the community, cultivating a strong sense of involvement, father of little gems of original and nontraditional events fostering total cultural immersion.
Fall
In the fall, the color of nature changes, from the light to the leaves. It’s the perfect time for a hike in the woods. Abitibi-Témiscamingue boasts more than one hundred outfitters who get their lodges and camps all set for hunters from all over the world.
Fall is also when cinema lovers get together to celebrate the Seventh Art to the beat of the Festival du cinéma international en Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Welcome to Abitibi-Témiscamingue’s most awaited parade of reels and moose.
Winter
As soon as winter sets in, snowmobiling is the dominant activity in the region. More than 3,500 kilometers of trails for snowmobile enthusiasts. Our trails are known worldwide for their enviable conditions and width. And when you share your experience in the winter wonderland at a snowmobile halt of your choice, you will understand the true meaning of our hospitable nature.
Spring
While ice fishing is a fun activity in winter, the opening of the fishing season in May remains a much-awaited moment. Try one of Abitibi-Témiscamingue’s outfitters, and reel a big one with the assistance of a seasoned guide. Thrilling emotions guaranteed!
