By Audrey-Anne Poirier, in collaboration with Tourisme Rouyn-Noranda (CLD RN)
Wishing for an excursion bringing nature, relaxation, culture and urban life together? Here is a sneak peek of my summer discoveries in Rouyn-Noranda, a vibrant authentic and welcoming territory. Here, we cultivate happiness at the heart of biodiversity and every stop allowed me to slow down, to reconnect, and to enjoy the present moment fully.
Quartier Centre piétonnier
Downtown | Accessible everyday from June 19th to August 17th, 2025
Downtown Rouyn-Noranda is a location to discover on foot, one step at a time. That’s what the Quartier Centre proposes all Summer long. As soon as I arrived, I was charmed by the unique atmosphere: a sweet fragrance of flowers mixing to the scent of the lively terraces, both animated and casual. The street has been set up with flower arrangements, tables, lounge spots and well decorated stores.
We take our time to wander around, to shop, and to discover small local stores. The neighbourhood overflows with restaurants offering tasty summer menus, an ideal way to meet the locals, always welcoming and curious to chat for a while. Moreover, a dynamic Summer program sets the vibe on the street all Summer long.
Osisko Multi-Use Trail
RécréOsisko : 191, du Lac Avenue | Everyday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Two steps away from downtown, the 8 km cycling path around Lake Osisko is your perfect destination for an active time in the heart of the city. Set up directly on the shores of the lake, RécréOsisko is the perfect spot to borrow a bicycle or a wate craft (yes, it's free!) to go on an adventure.
The equipment choice is impressive: electric bikes, tandems, tricycles for adults, seats and carts for kids, and that is besides the kayaks, canoes and pedal boats you can borrow too. Everything is in place for you to explore the surroundings of the lake to your own rhythm, whether on wheels or on the water.
What I loved the most? The friendly welcome and the caring service of the staff. Under a few minutes, here I am, on a bike, wind in my hair, discovering nature in the middle of the city. A must-see stop to move and fully enjoy the location.
Kiwanis Beach and the Agnico Eagle Recreational Area
Rideau Boulevard and 15th street | From June 14th to September 1st, 2025
A little urban paradise | Whether it’s to play volleyball, to run through the water play installations, walk on the trail or simply relax under the Sun, the Kiwanis beach and the Agnico Eagle Recreational Area have everything to please you.
It’s crazy how we can go from the effervescence of downtown to the softness of a lake’s shores in only a few minutes!
Parc national d’Aiguebelle
12373, D'Aiguebelle Road | Everyday from 9 AM to 6:30 PM from May 30th to September 1st, 2025
The Parc National d’Aiguebelle, it’s pure nature. We go there for the grand landscapes, the hiking trails, the famous suspended bridge and the unique ambiance of camping in the forest.
I chose the Sentier de la Passerelle (Suspended Bridge trail) (reopened recently!) and I must warn you: the hike is well worth it. Every effort is rewarded with breathtaking point of views, perfect for a picture break or simply to marvel.
For even better views of Lake Lahaie and of the suspended bridge, I highly recommend a rabaska excursion!
Jardin Spa - Thermal Circuit
41, 6th Street | Everyday from 9:30 AM to 9 PM
After a very active day, time for relaxation. Head towards the Jardin Spa to live the thermal circuit experience. Hot and cold baths, three saunas with different ambiances, inviting and warm resting areas. Everything is thought of so the body and the mind can rest.
The mood is comforting: appeasing fragrances, relaxing music, dimmed lighting. A pure wellness moment. The in-house bistro even allows you to prolong your break in your bathrobe. Once installed, I only wished that time would stop.
Osisko en lumière Westwood
Grande place Edmund-Horne | August 5th to 9th, 2025
In August, the city comes alive with Osisko en Lumière Westwood, a musical festival that transforms the shores of Lake Osisko into a true outdoors stage. On the menu: concerts, luminous installations, festive ambiance and wild crowds.
This musical rendez-vous, that extends over many days of festivities, offers an immersive experience with dozens of both local and international artists performing on five different stages.
It’s one of the grand cultural Summer rendez-vous in Rouyn-Noranda, and for me, it’s an event I will not miss!
A Dynamic Summer in Rouyn-Noranda
Rouyn-Noranda offered me a melting pot of emotions, landscapes and simple pleasures. We can feel the harmony between men and nature, between the city and the forest. It’s a destination where we can both cultivate our happiness and explore biodiversity in all of its richness. And you, when do you plan your next stay?
