Cycling the Laurentians just got a little easier thanks to new amenities along the Linear Park, a three-day, 120 mile long recreational trail that stretches from Mont-Laurier in the north to Saint-Jérôme in the south, just 20 minutes from Montreal.
Affectionately known as the Le P’tit Train du Nord (named after the snow train that used to carry Montrealers to the winter ski slopes), the trail passes through a scenic landscape of pine forests, rushing rivers and picturesque villages.
Spa Services Enroute: Now, special cyclist-friendly spa services such as energizing leg tonics and massage are available enroute. All you need to do is pedal and plenty of pampering awaits. Limber up for your journey with a soak in the hot tub or massage at the Comfort Inn at the start of the trail in Mont-Laurier.
Relaxation comes easy with a stop at Le Pimbina Spa and Massage a country inn located in Mont-Tremblant. Charming host, Chantal Beaudry, offers plenty of amenities for cyclists. Be sure to book a one-hour Swedish massage that focuses on “handle bar” shoulders, sore leg muscles and over-worked hip joints. Unwind in the outdoor hot tub before retiring to your comfortable room.
The next leg of the journey takes you to Manoir Sous les Arbes in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts. Situated on 14 acres of peaceful country meadows, this graceful French manor home was the first spa facility in the Laurentians. It boasts 16 treatment rooms and an extensive spa menu featuring options such as therapeutic leg wraps and pedicures.
Next, spend some time at Auberge de la Gare, a heritage railway station in Sainte Adèle that has been converted to a Bed and Breakfast. The genial host, Michel Gossiaux, offers a selection of Belgian beer, a welcoming patio overlooking the bike path and hearty home-style breakfasts.
From there, it’s a short hop to l’Eau a la Bouche hotel, spa and restaurant. The spa boasts waterfalls plus hot and cold outdoor Nordic baths on its outdoor terrace. A diverse spa menu includes maple sap body wraps and volcanic stone massage. It’s a perfect reward at journey’s end.
Tip: Make your cycling even easier with convenient luggage transfer service from Transport du Parc Lineaire. Visit other trails on the Route Verte, North America ’s longest bike path.