Saint-Maurice, Quebec: A Hidden Gem in Canada
Saint-Maurice is a small community located in the province of Quebec, Canada. It is situated in the Mauricie region, approximately 200 kilometers northeast of Montreal. Despite its small size, Saint-Maurice is a hidden gem that offers a variety of attractions and natural wonders for tourists to explore.
Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in Saint-Maurice is the Saint-Maurice National Park. The park covers an area of 536 square kilometers and is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, black bears, and beavers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing in the park.
Another popular attraction in Saint-Maurice is the Saint-Maurice River. The river is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for kayaking and rafting. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the river, which is home to a variety of fish species, including trout and bass.
For those interested in history, the Saint-Maurice Ironworks National Historic Site is a must-visit. The site was established in 1730 and is one of the oldest industrial sites in Canada. Visitors can explore the remains of the ironworks and learn about the history of the site.
Other attractions in Saint-Maurice include:
- The Saint-Maurice Museum of Fine Arts
- The Saint-Maurice Wildlife Reserve
- The Saint-Maurice Botanical Garden
- The Saint-Maurice Covered Bridge
Natural Wonders
Saint-Maurice is home to a variety of natural wonders that are worth exploring. One of the most popular natural wonders in the area is the Saint-Maurice Gorge. The gorge is a deep, narrow canyon that was carved by the Saint-Maurice River. Visitors can hike along the edge of the gorge and enjoy the stunning views.
Another natural wonder in Saint-Maurice is the Lac-aux-Sables. The lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and picnicking in the surrounding area.
Other natural wonders in Saint-Maurice include:
- The Saint-Maurice Mountains
- The Saint-Maurice Forest
- The Saint-Maurice Waterfalls
Festivals
Saint-Maurice is home to a variety of festivals throughout the year. One of the most popular festivals is the Saint-Maurice Winter Carnival. The carnival takes place in February and features a variety of winter activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
Another popular festival in Saint-Maurice is the Saint-Maurice Summer Festival. The festival takes place in July and features live music, food vendors, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Other festivals in Saint-Maurice include:
- The Saint-Maurice Fall Festival
- The Saint-Maurice Christmas Market
History
Saint-Maurice was established in 1730 by Jacques Le Moyne de Sainte-Marie, a French explorer and fur trader. The community was named after the Saint-Maurice River, which runs through the area.
Saint-Maurice was officially incorporated as a municipality in 1855. The community has a rich history, with many of its buildings and landmarks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
Conclusion
Saint-Maurice is a hidden gem in Canada that offers a variety of attractions, natural wonders, and festivals for tourists to explore. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Saint-Maurice has something for everyone.
Sources:
- Saint-Maurice National Park: https://www.sepaq.com/pq/sma/index.dot?language_id=1
- Saint-Maurice River: https://www.tourismemauricie.com/en/activities/saint-maurice-river/
- Saint-Maurice Ironworks National Historic Site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/qc/saintmaurice
- Saint-Maurice Museum of Fine Arts: https://www.musees.qc.ca/en/museums/museum-of-fine-arts-of-saint-maurice
- Saint-Maurice Wildlife Reserve: https://www.sepaq.com/rf/sma/index.dot?language_id=1
- Saint-Maurice Covered Bridge: https://www.tourismemauricie.com/en/activities/saint-maurice-covered-bridge/