Chertsey contains many amenities: a Provigo, a fruit market, a bakery, a pharmacy, a laundrymat, a CLSC, a Caisse Pop, SAQ outlet (in the local Provigo - how convenient!), a library, a Catholic church and a gas station that also houses a small video store. For those who want to explore the area, Rawdon offers the same amenities on a larger scale - two grocery stores (IGA and Metro), several churches and so on. Rawdon is a bustling little village that has several specialty stores and boutiques. North of Chalet Paré lies the picturesque hamlet of St-Donat. We strongly suggest you take the 40km trip; be sure to bring your camera as the scenery along the way is beautiful. As well, once you arrive you will be enchanted by this town where restaurants, cafes, a well-known bakery and a variety of boutiques line the street.
Local Festivals
Festival de Lanaudière - A festival of classical music at locations in and around Joliette.
Festival Mémoire & Racines - A celebration of Quebec music and heritage.
Hiking and Biking
Just behind Chalet Paré are a few hiking trails. In under 20 minutes you can be on top of Cap L'Ours admiring Lac Paré from above, or, follow the trails back to some secret lakes. The trip to the lakes takes about an hour each way. Approximately 15 minutes away by car is Forêt Ouareau, a network of hiking and biking trails with spectacular lookout points. The east gate of Parc Mont Tremblant is also close by and offers canoe rentals as well as a expansive network of trails for all levels of hikers.
Chertsey
Patate Marco - 7160 Rte 125 (450) 882-3440
This roadside eatery transcends the typical casse-croûte and soars into the sublime world of the perfect French fry: handcut, thick and golden brown. Try them on their own or sample one of Patate Marco's eight types of poutine. Be sure to try the Big Marco burger as well!
Restaurant Chertsey - 443 De L'eglise (450) 882-2100
Weekend mornings finds local residents enjoying breakfast at this family restaurant located in the heart of Chertsey. The sunlight streams through the windows while hot coffee, bacon and eggs are being served up by friendly waitresses. Steaks, chicken and pasta dishes are the mainstay of the dinner menu. Features a charming patio in the summer.
St-Donat
Chez Hayes - 508 rue Principale (819) 424-1755
Whether you choose to sit on the bustling patio, slip into one of the comfortable banquettes inside or retreat to a romantic table for two, this restaurant has it all. Peek at the menu and peruse a variety of appetizers, main dishes and desserts. Offers a table d'hôte.
La Maison Blanche Resto - 515 rue Principale (819) 424-2222
In the mood for a fondue? Investigate this restaurant with the expansive split-level terrasse. The menu also features seafood and steaks.
Le Coin - 458 rue Principale (819) 424-2066
Claims to have the most beautiful terrasse in all of St-Donat! See for yourself at this casual dining establishment.
View many more
fine establishments here.
Better yet, travel
the 40 km from Chalet Paré to St-Donat and explore this delightful town.
Rawdon
Au Parfums de la Nature - 6703 Pontbriand (450) 834-4547
For those looking for something a little different, this restaurant offers game dishes such as bison, stag, guinea fowl, duck and pheasant. Call ahead for weekend reservations.
Restaurant Kenny - 3911 rue Queen (450) 834-5454
Comfortable and welcoming, this restaurant offers pasta dishes, pizzas, chicken, ribs, burgers and steaks.
Here and There
Bistro à Champlain - 75 chemin Masson, Ste-Marguerite de Lac Masson (450) 228-4988
Check out the extensive wine selection at this gourmet restaurant and dine among the masters! Artworks by artists such as Miro, Jean-Paul Riopelle and Joan Mitchell adorn the walls. The menu focuses on modern Quebec cuisine that delivers high-quality regional products.
La Belle Excuse - 524 St-Viateur, Joliette (450) 756-0118
Sample one of the many hot or cold appetizers and then consider main dishes such as braised leg of lamb, osso bucco, filet mignon, salmon or mussels in a wine sauce.
La Distinction - 1505 Base-de-Roc, Joliette (450) 756-6900
Take in the extraordinary surroundings of this historic building and then order from the menu which includes a wide variety of gourmet dishes.
The Lanaudière region is a bountiful farming region and many of the farms open their doors to tourists. While here, be sure to sample the unique flavours of the area and try award-wining cheeses, mouthwatering maple products, baked goods, wines, jams and jellies and an endless assortment of products.
Domaine des Cerfs - Go for breakfast, lunch or dinner and dig into the hearty typically Quebecois fare.
Nect'Art des Fleurs - Offers mustards, honey products, and vinaigrettes in pretty hand-painted bottles.
Ferme Guy Rivest - Pick your own berries or purchase fruit wines. Offers sampling and tasting packages.
Fromagerie Suisse Normande - Learn more about the cheeses made by this charming fromagerie!
Terre des Bisons - Bison, bison, bison! Why not buy some bison meat and throw it on the barbecue at Chalet Paré?
These are just a few of the many places in Lanaudière. We can offer suggestions to suit your interests.