Over the seasons
Getting there: Spring - Summer - Autumn - Winter - Information Point
Spring
In spring, Lake Matagami loses its thick ice. The sun warms the earth. Animals emerge from hibernation. It's also maple syrup season; birch sap begins to flow, much to the delight of Quebecers.
In May - Opening of the site for the summer season
Come and enjoy the still-cool weather by warming up in the Nordic bath on your balcony and experience the benefits of fresh birch sap! Make it a part of your stay! A unique experience guaranteed!
© Mathieu Dupuis
It's fishing season open! Come and enjoy this sport on Lake Matagami ! Be a good sport, practice catch and release! (For more details, visit the ministry's website )
From May 15th to June 30th, it's black bear hunting season. Want to see how the locals do it? Now's your chance! Please note, we do not offer outfitter services.
Come and overcome your fears of nature, and awaken to the nourishing springs of Mother Nature. Take a forest survival course with Les Primitifs !
June
© Pixabay
© Aude Rokosz
In early June, come join us for morel mushroom picking! Late June/early July: Come discover Quebec's largest butterfly, the luna moth (Actias luna). Learn the art of moth hunting.
SUMMER
Take advantage of the summer season to discover nature, local produce and the people of this area.
On the agenda: water sports, canoeing and kayaking, relaxing on the beach...
WARNING : From mid-June to the end of August, it's mosquito season. For comfort, the best protection is clothing. Ideally, wear light-colored, slightly loose-fitting (not too tight) trousers that you can tuck into your socks if necessary. Wear a light-colored, loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirt. Mosquitoes can bite even through tight-fitting clothing.
July
© Wikimedia
© Mathieu Dupuis
Rent your canoe or kayak and set off to explore Lake Matagami ! And for mushroom lovers, it's time to pick pholiota mushrooms!
August
© Wix
It's time to harvest berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, wild cherries...)
Autumn is the perfect season to awaken your five senses and enjoy the last moments of good weather before winter arrives. It's also the ideal time to harvest the bounty of the earth and stock up on provisions for winter.
September-October
In the old pine forests of Northern Quebec, come and pick Matsutake , from the end of August to the beginning of October.
Winters
September and October are the best months to admire the spectacular Northern Lights, with the Écogîtes beach offering a 360° view of the sky.
This is the perfect time for beautiful hikes in the forest and admiring the warm colors of its foliage.
An autumnal experience guaranteed!
© Andrea. S
For more information about this magical event, click here.
© Andrea.S
© Mathieu Dupuis
Winter
Winter is the longest season here. From November onwards, the first snowflakes appear and many winter sports activities are practiced.
Like our ancestors practiced it, ice fishing is a unique experience not to be missed.
January and February are the coldest months in Quebec, so you will need to dress warmly.
From November to March
The region is covered in snow; it's time to enjoy winter in the forest.
April
© Wix
© Aude Rokosz
© Aude Rokosz
Early to mid-April: last chance to enjoy the snow for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Nature awakens, winter begins to end, and the snow gradually melts. The days grow longer, and the sun warms up.
Depending on the seasons
All along the 8 km road leading to the Eco-lodges from the James Bay road, depending on the season, you can go in search of wild mushrooms, spot a beaver building a dam, hear the cry of wolves, notice bear tracks in the ground or even see them crossing the road, as well as moose crossing the forest.
You can also go wild berry picking along our way.
Information point
