Summer is always long awaited in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. As soon as the temperature rises, the snow melts and the days get longer, we all look forward to these little signs that summer is here confirming that the warmer season is actually truly there. Here are five of them that don’t lie.
1. The neighboring snack-bar has turned on its fryer
There is something magical in the smell of a little golden serving of french fries that floats in the Spring’s fresh air. As soon as the town’s snack-bar open up again, it’s as if everyone answers the call. It’s the non-official sign that summer is here!
The meals are eaten at the corner of a picnic table, the orders are given through the window, and happiness crunches with every bite. And, we must admit: a poutine, it’s always best with local cheese curds. Aren’t we lucky, we have two excellent options:
- Fromagerie La vache à Maillotte in La Sarre
- Fromagerie Le Fromage au Village inc. in Lorrainville
One bite, and signs that summer is here finally become a reality!
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2. Fishing tales, the return
Whether they are 100% true or slightly exaggerated (we don’t judge!), fishing tales come back as soon as the ice leaves the place for the calm reflection on the lakes’ water. The jigs are pulled out of the boxes, the boats reunite with water, and the conversations rapidly switch to this famous "secret spot" we never really reveal completely.
But if you seek the real experience (without having to exaggerate the size of your catch!), team up with a seasoned guide at one of our outfitters.
3. The harmonious sound of the zzzzz in your ears
Yes, mosquitoes and flies. We dread them, we expel them, but we cannot deny that they are part of the Summer Abitibian experience. As soon as we hear this familiar zzzzz, it’s when nature takes back its rights!
And if, instead of simply expelling them, we learned to understand them a little better?
These are a few ideas to reflect on (french content, but you will love it!) in order to love (or at least tolerate) the mosquito in all its glory.
4. The first canoe-camping booking of the season
Planning a canoe-camping excursion, it’s a little like officially opening the Summer season with a bang! Whether it lasts a weekend or many days far from civilization, we begin to dream: sunset on the lake, quiet bonfire… and little freeze-dried meals that we eat as if they just came out of a five-star restaurant.
And good news! We already thought of everything for you!
No need to rack your brain, there are ready-to-go packages:
5. Flip-Flops are back in service
Goodbye boots and socks! The toes can finally breathe. Even if the temperature still plays yo-yo, we cannot wait for Summer to be officially there to get our sandals out, our Crocs or our old worn-out Flip-Flops.
You can see a little sunray? Hop! We put them on to go get the mail, to walk the dog, or just to feel the warmth of the sidewalk under our feet.
And you, what is your sign that summer is here?
