Your Guide to Abitibi-Témiscamingue: Restaurants, Attractions & Hidden Gems

I have a confession to make. As a Torontonian who loves my province, the province of Ontario, I’ve been secretly having an affair with Quebec—please don’t tell Ontario. From the historically beautiful Quebec City and Trois-Rivières, to the vibrant energy of Montreal and Laval, and the stunning nature of the Mauricie Region, Lanaudière, Mont-Tremblant, and the Laurentians. Quebec never stops impressing me!

This time, we are exploring the history and beauty of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, hanging out specifically in the Temiscamingue area! It is located along the border of Ontario, with the gorgeously long Témiscamingue Lake running in between the two.

We spent the weekend based in Ville-Marie, enjoying its little cozy beaches, picnics by the lake, and paddleboarding. Here you’ll find the best poutine (Casse-croûte La Fringale) and unassuming breakfast spots like La Gaufrière, where the locals start their day chatting with people 2-3 tables over. Everyone here greets you with a cheerful “bonjour” and a wide grin in the morning. We love this place!

How to Get To Abitibi-Témiscamingue

If you’re coming from Toronto, there are several options to travel north to Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Quebec. For those interested in a fun road trip, the drive will take approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on the part of the region you plan to visit. This drive will take you up Highway 11, passing through many charming towns like Orillia, Bracebridge, Huntsville, and North Bay.

For those who prefer enjoying the trip without having to drive or don’t have access to a vehicle, consider starting your weekend trip to Abitibi-Témiscamingue with a scenic bus or train ride. You can take VIA Rail from Toronto to Sudbury (tickets starting at $66) or board a bus with Ontario Northland from Toronto to North Bay (tickets starting at $77). From there, you will need to either rent a car or transfer to another bus line.

Autobus Maheux has a route from North Bay to Rouyn-Noranda in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Tickets start at approximately $85.

The quickest mode of travel would be to take a flight. Airlines like WestJet and Porter fly from Toronto to Val-D’Or, Quebec (with a layover in Montreal). However, with tickets starting at $635, one-way, it is a much more costly option. 

Best Accommodations in Abitibi-Témiscamingue

The first step in finding Abitibi-Témiscamingue hotels or accommodations is deciding what part of the region you want to spend your time in. If most of the attractions you’re interested in are located near one another, it would make sense to stay there. However, if your plans are spread out across a larger area, you may be better off finding something centrally located or positioned close to the start or end of your itinerary. 

Here are a few great options to help start your search: 

La Bannik

862 Chemin du Vieux Fort, Duhamel-Ouest

If you’re looking for a stunning view, La Bannik is an excellent option. Located on the shores of Lake Témiscamingue in Duhamel-Ouest, near Ville-Marie, they offer a variety of different accommodation options for all travellers, including traditional hotel-style rooms, cottages, and a campground with nearly 100 campsites. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a weekend trip to Abitibi-Témiscamingue with friends, this place is perfect!

Our room had its own walk-out private patio. In between the branches of the beautiful birch trees, Gordy and I could see the stunning view of Lake Témiscamingue. In addition to the view, you can relax while listening to the water waves splashing, the birch trees blowing in the wind, and the birds chirping. Sitting out there each morning to start our day was truly magical.  

In addition to the great places to rest your head, there is also a spa where you can enjoy a massage or Reiki treatment, as well as the on-site restaurant Bistro Clau Clau (more on that to follow). 

Auberge Nouvelle-France

6 Notre-Dame Street South, Ville-Marie

If your idea of the ideal hotel experience is a blend of modern luxury and historical charm, the Auberge Nouvelle-France may be the best option for your trip. This inn, originally built in 1907 as Villa Nouvelle-France, was completely renovated in 2023. Located near Lake Témiscamingue, it has a large veranda that’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying the lake view (especially during the stunning sunsets). The marina is just a short walk away, making it convenient for anyone arriving by boat or looking to spend time on the lake. 

Each of the inn’s luxury rooms is beautifully designed. During our visit, we stayed in a room called Le Météor. The room was named after a legendary steamboat that played a key role in the development of the region. Our room had everything we could need or want, including a fully equipped kitchenette and a walk-in shower. It’s a great “home base” as you explore the many attractions in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. 

Motel Louise 

25 rue des Oblats Nord, Ville-Marie

Located right on the city’s main stretch, Motel Louise is a great option. The motel offers 33 rooms that are perfect for both short and long stays, with cozy décor and all the amenities you could need during your visit at a budget-friendly price. The central location puts you directly across from local shopping centers and a variety of things to do in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, including cycling, golfing, and cross-country skiing. 

Beyond its cozy and welcoming rooms, Motel Louise features an on-site bar and restaurant that each provide a warm and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious options, while the bar features a selection of microbrewery beers and a pool table. If the weather is nice, you can also enjoy the relaxing outdoor terrace. They are a great spot to relax at the end of the day. 

The Ultimate Abitibi-Témiscamingue Weekend Itinerary

Looking for the best things to do in Abitibi-Témiscamingue on your next getaway? Look no further! This region has so much to offer, from stunning locations to explore for outdoor adventure lovers to cultural opportunities and historic attractions. The following is the Temiscaming itinerary from our recent visit. With a mixture of different activities, this includes something for everyone. 

Day 1 (Friday Afternoon)

Gare Museum (Musee de la Gare) 

15 Rue Humphrey, Témiscaming

Located right near the Ontario border, the Gare Museum is a great spot to start your exploration. The museum is housed in the former Témiscaming station. This key piece of Quebec’s railway history was initially built in 1927 and restored in 1996, transforming it into the museum we see today. The exhibitions here are all related to the history and heritage of the Témiscaming region and the culture that helped to define this area. 

Both Gordy and I were moved by the many stories showcasing the commitment people in this area had to one another. One story that really resonated was when the people of Témiscaming, working for a paper company, required a lower salary to prevent layoffs, thus saving their community. 

During our visit, I had the pleasure of interviewing Aurélie St-Jean, one of the dedicated museum staff. She talked about the history of the Canadian International Paper Company (CIP) and the logging industry. Her face lit up every time she mentioned her grandfather, who helped build the town while working as a log driver. She also mentioned that now and then, he’ll hang out with her at the museum, sharing his first-hand experiences. 

Ruisseau Gordon Waterfalls

Less than a 5-minute walk from the Gare Museum, you will discover the Gordon Creek and Ruisseau Gordon Waterfalls. When we first arrived, I sent Gordy off to look at the waterfalls while I flew the drone around to get some aerial shots. It wasn’t long until she came back, insisting that I needed to go see the falls, describing them as “breathtaking.” If you’re looking for a chance to immerse yourself in nature, this is a must-see! 

Forced Pipelines Circuit (Circuit des conduits forces)

The former penstock circuit played a significant role in the history of Témiscaming, helping to shape the city as you see it today. For over 50 years, these impressively large pipes ran through the town, carrying water from the Lumsden Dam to the Kipawa hydroelectric power station on Lake Témiscamingue. 

Today, the remains of these large, ancient pipes have been transformed into the Témiscaming Penstock Interpretive Trail. The trail will take you through and around the pipes, where both Gordy and I enjoyed admiring the graffiti. It creates such a fun backdrop to take selfies! I’m a massive fan of art installations of all types, especially when they are on trails, and it’s even better when it’s something repurposed from the past. 

Dinner at Bistro Clau Clau 

862 Chemin du Vieux Fort, Duhamel-Ouest

Of course, no itinerary is complete without discussing where to eat in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. As I mentioned above, the Bistro Clau Clau is on-site at La Bannik, where we stayed. The patio here overlooks Lake Témiscamingue, creating a stunning backdrop to enjoy during your meal. All meals come with a Bannik (Bannock) bun with maple butter. We ate here twice, which allowed us to sample many different options on their menu, including: 

• Bannik Beer Blond
• The Fish of the Day (Picorol)
• Brie Cheese with Apple Butter and Pecan 
• Breaded Shrimp with Thai Sauce
• Le Sandwich au Steak Philly 
• Servie Avec Salade César
• 12” 4 Viandes Pizza

Everything we ordered was super fresh and delicious, but if I had to pick a favourite, it would easily be the brie. DAMN! That was incredible! 

Day 2 (Saturday)

Obadjiwan-Fort-Témiscamingue

834 Chemin du Vieux-Fort, Duhamel-Ouest

Step back in time at the Obadjiwan-Fort-Témiscamingue. Dating back approximately 6,000 years, this former fur trading post is a place where Algonquin heritage and the history of commercial trade converge. Here, you can learn from stories of the past, from the Indigenous people who first inhabited the land to the European traders who later arrived and called this area home. 

I highly recommend taking a guided tour to get the full experience and learn about Indigenous culture in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Our guide, Émile, was knowledgeable and passionate. I mean, he REALLY knows his stuff! During our tour, he shared not only the site’s history but also a deep respect for local traditions. One of my favourite parts was exploring the “enchanted forest,” a trail of uniquely shaped trees that feels like something out of a storybook. We also had the incredible opportunity to meet Karl, a traditional craftsman and member of the Timiskaming First Nations community. He shared what goes into building a canoe and spoke about the Indigenous concept of the circle of life.

At the time of writing this, the site is temporarily closed to the public. It will reopen in summer 2026. If you’re visiting before that point, you can still explore the outdoor grounds free of charge, but the visitor centre and restrooms are not accessible. 

Visit the Town of Ville-Marie

Founded in 1642 as a French colony, today the town of Ville-Marie is an adorable little community with much to explore. Sitting on the shores of Lake Témiscaming, you can enjoy the beautiful views along with spots to swim, boat, and fish. You can even see Ontario in the distance! The sunsets along the waterfront are truly something out of a fairy tale. 

I recommend taking some time to walk the streets, checking out the many cafés, boutique shops, and historic buildings. Everyone I met was incredibly friendly, creating such a special, welcoming atmosphere. 

Lunch at Casse-Croûte La Fringale 

52 Rue Ste Anne, Ville-Marie

While you are in Ville-Marie, stop by Casse-Croûte La Fringale for lunch. While there are many delicious options to choose from, I’m a firm believer that you can’t visit Quebec without trying poutine. There is no option to pay by debit, but you can withdraw cash across the road at the Caisse Desjardins. 

No lie, the poutine here was incredible! After picking up our poutine, we went to sit by the harbour, which was relaxing. Who doesn’t enjoy a meal with a view? It was fun watching people paddleboard and soaking up a little sun before heading out on our next adventure. 

Brother Moffet House 

7 rue Notre Dame de Lourdes, Ville-Marie

Built in 1881 and classified as a heritage building in 1978, Brother Moffet House is the oldest house still standing in Témiscamingue. Today, it shares the story of the brother Joseph Moffet and how he helped to build the Abitibi-Témiscamingue as both a visionary and a seasoned businessman. A permanent exhibition titled “Of the Land and of Men” will transport you back in time, showcasing the first wave of colonization in the area and what life was like from 1881 to 1920. 

Additionally, each year, the property welcomes a temporary exhibit in the hangar located behind the building. While the themes of the exhibits change, they are all focused on helping to educate visitors on the history of the region. 

Our Lady of Lourdes & Parc de la Grotte

98 Rue Notre Dame de Lourdes, Ville-Marie

If you’re looking for a place to go hiking in Abitibi-Témiscamingue while also learning about local history, I recommend adding Our Lady of Lourdes and Parc de la Grotte to your itinerary. This beautiful site was created by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate in 1904 and has served as a place of pilgrimage for over a century. 

The cave in the mountain has been sealed, but visitors can still follow the Way of the Cross and a set of stairs that lead to the grotto. The trails offer breathtaking viewpoints where you can enjoy panoramic views of Ville-Marie, Lake Témiscamingue, and even the province of Ontario across the water. Don’t forget your camera (or phone) to capture some stunning photos. 

The Guigues Western Festival 

10 Rue Piché Est, Saint-Bruno-de-Guigues

A hidden gem that may not have crossed your mind as you started putting together your Abitibi-Témiscamingue itinerary. While I thoroughly loved my time in Calgary, I didn’t get a chance to attend the Calgary Stampede and forgot to buy a cowboy hat! I did not know that this region was home to its own Western celebration, the Guigues Western Festival, a top stop on the professional rodeo circuit.

The Guigues Western Festival has been drawing crowds for over four decades. As one of the largest Western festivals in Quebec, this is definitely a must-see for any Wild West lovers if your visit lines up with the festival dates. Here, you’ll find everything from professional rodeos to country music shows. 

The highlight of the festival is, of course, the rodeo, where you can watch professional cowboys compete in events like bull riding and bareback horse riding. The cowboys compete for points, hoping to earn a spot in the International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA) finals in Oklahoma. It’s absolute wild craziness and a complete rush…

Day 3 (Sunday)

Nordvie Farm (Ferme Nordvie)

1049 Chemin des 2e et 3e rangs, Saint-Bruno-de-Guigues

One of the best places to visit in Abitibi-Témiscamingue for a delicious, authentic taste of the region is Ferme Nordvie. This family-run farm has been operating in the Témiscamingue region since 1984. While they offer a wide variety of quality produce, they are most famous for their incredible crops of strawberries. 

The farm began as a small dream by recent graduates and agricultural scientists Normand and Sylvie. As their yearly picking season began to attract visitors from all over, the farm expanded, introducing a variety of other crops, including raspberries and rhubarb. 

What makes Ferme Nordvie so unique is its self-service system. Simply take what you want, from their flavourful strawberries to the refreshing slushies made from their own fruit juices, and write down your purchases in the notebook. It’s a trust-based system that perfectly captures the country charm. Beyond the self-service stand, you can also join one of their short farm tours to learn about their approach to organic farming and biodiversity. It’s a great way to learn more about the farm’s legacy and how the next generation will continue to carry it forward. 

Première‑Chute Hydropower Generating Station

621 chemin Hydro-Québec, Notre-Dame-du-Nord

If you’re interested in an educational experience during your visit, stop by the Première‑Chute Hydropower Generating Station. Situated on the Ottawa River, this hydro-generating station offers a unique opportunity to see how clean, renewable energy is created. 

Due to its smaller size, the Première‑Chute Hydropower Generating Station is the perfect place to learn the basics of how water power is converted into electricity. During your visit, you’ll discover the history of the plant and be introduced to the technology that powers the province. 

We took an awesome tour with Emma, who was incredibly knowledgeable and more than willing to answer all our questions. The 90-minute tour is free for all visitors, but you do need to make reservations at least 24 hours in advance.  

T.E. Draper & Chantier Gédéon

11, rue T.E.-Draper, Angliers

Another great stop for those interested in learning more about the history of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, the sites of T.E. Draper & Chantier Gédéon offer a deeper understanding of the history of the logging industry. These two attractions provide a firsthand look into the lives of the log drivers who helped to shape the area. 

The T.E. Draper is a huge timber tugboat that was known as the “Emperor of the Fifteen.” It was the largest of its kind operating on Lac des Quinze from 1929 to 1972, and has since been designated as a cultural property. You can actually climb aboard and get a feel for what life was like for the loggers who worked on the water at the time. 

Nearby, the Chantier Gédéon is a perfect reconstruction of a 1930s-1940s logging camp. You can walk through five different buildings, including the kitchen, the dorm, and the general store. During this time, you’ll gain real appreciation for the hard work and resilience of the people who came before us. It’s truly like stepping back in time. 

Day 4 (Monday)

La Gaufrière 

18 Rue Ste Anne, Ville-Marie

One of the best restaurants in Témiscamingue (in my opinion anyway), La Gaufrière is the perfect place to start your day. This family restaurant is conveniently located right on the main strip of Ville-Marie. The menu offers a wide variety of options that will make you feel right at home. However, they are best known for their waffles and crepes. You’ll be ready to take on the day. 

Opémican National Park

5555 chemin Opémican, Témiscaming

Opémican National Park is relatively new, having opened in 2018. The park’s name, of Algonquin origin, is a beautiful nod to the Indigenous history of the area and means “the path followed by the Indigenous peoples.” Visiting this park is genuinely one of the best things to do in Abitibi-Témiscamingue for both nature lovers and history buffs. It spans 252.5 km², bordering the waters of Lake Témiscamingue and Lake Kipawa. 

When you visit, you’ll find the park divided into several distinct sectors, each offering a different kind of adventure. Here, you’ll find a wide array of water sports like canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are trails ranging from easy to moderate, winding through the park’s rocky cliffs and offering panoramic lake views and waterfalls. 

The Pointe-Opémican sector has fascinating historical and archaeological remains from the logging era to explore. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the old buildings and the people who worked in the logging industry. 

If you’re interested in extending your vacation, Opémican National Park also offers camping opportunities, including nearly 60 campsites and 11 ready-to-camp “Étoile” units. It’s a great way to give yourself time to explore the hiking trail, waterways, landscapes, and even a small children’s obstacle course in the Kipawa River sector. Honestly, the park offers enough to do an explore that it could be a weekend getaway destination all on its own!

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