Why European Families Choose Canada for Unique Vacations

Canada is a destination that attracts European travelers—especially families seeking nature-based holidays in Quebec or in great wild regions like British Columbia or the Rockies. It conjures a dreamlike imagination that already inspires the journey: endless spaces, breathtaking nature, rich and unique wildlife…

For us Europeans, going to Canada means living an exceptional experience to remember for a lifetime—ideally with loved ones and children: an adventure to share as a family or with friends!

It’s a safe, affordable, and refreshing trip that—with a bit of planning—lets you enjoy outdoor activities beyond your usual routines and comfort zone.

Here are some testimonials and tips to make your trip to Canada a success.

Choose where you want to go!

Canada isn’t just one destination—it’s almost infinite nature stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic, with immense distances.

Take Quebec for example: three times the size of France, yet only 17% of Canada’s area. This French-speaking province teems with wild lands, perfect for a nature stay among lakes, forests, and mountains.

Once in Quebec, what are the must-sees? The St. Lawrence estuary, the Saguenay Fjord, historic towns, parks and forest outfitters, whales, the Gaspé Peninsula… it’s hard to choose.

My view—backed by many conversations with families returning from Canada—is that what makes the country truly unique isn’t so much the cities, monuments, or historic sites (worth a stop, of course!) but above all the incredible nature experiences.

Choose your season!

I’ve been lucky to visit Canada in every season, and each offers something unique.

Snowmobiling and dog sledding in mid-winter; fishing and nature’s awakening in spring; lakeside days with a canoe or mountain bike in summer; wildlife viewing among the colors of Indian summer.

My two favorites for a European family with children?

Winter—for its landscapes and crystal-clear blue skies at -20°C, and for the memorable activities you’ll find only in Canada: a snowshoeing day, ice fishing, driving a dog sled… Plus the joy of hot chocolate—or a glass of wine—by the fire in the evening.

Summer—for active families, because the possibilities are endless. Kayak or canoe, an introduction to fly fishing, mountain biking and hiking, black bear watching, camping in Quebec’s natural parks, campfires under starry skies, side-by-side rides through the forest…

Make the most of your time!

Even in several weeks, you won’t do and see everything—but you can already do and see a lot!

Especially with a little help and organization.

My first tip: shorten distances (and fly if you must cover long routes, e.g., between Montreal and the Gaspé, or from Toronto to the Rockies). By focusing on one or two regions, you can discover a multitude of landscapes and experiences. Here are two, among many:

The Upper Laurentians—easily reached from Montreal—offer thousands of lakes in forests and mountains, rustic or comfortable lodging, and multi-activity programs that can fill an entire week without repeating the same thing!

Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean and the St. Lawrence up toward the North Shore. In the wake of early explorers, you travel back in time amid the incredible scenery of this mythical river: whale watching, the Monts Valin for hiking lovers, fishing villages, salmon rivers…

For reference, here’s a 20-day itinerary that made for a memorable trip in 2021—with some driving and just one round-trip flight:

Montreal: 2–3 days (Old Montreal strolls, museums, francophone vibe)
Lodging in 2 Upper Laurentians outfitters: 5 days (guided nature activities and a stay deep in Quebec’s forests)
Inn in the Saguenay as a base camp: 4–5 days (Saguenay Fjord, hiking and kayaking, Monts Valin Park)
Quebec City: 2 days (Old Quebec, UNESCO-listed heritage)
Sept-Îles and the North Shore: 5 days (whales, wild beaches, Indigenous villages)

Pick lodgings that offer multi-activity!

Let’s be honest: if you want to organize fly-fishing, bear watching, a river kayak run, and snowmobile rentals all by yourself—good luck! You’ll likely spend more time organizing than actually enjoying. 😁

Here’s a useful recommendation from my 10 years of regular trips to Canada—especially Quebec and the northern regions: get help, and use outfitters that offer bespoke multi-activity stays.

The main benefit is spending the maximum of your day outdoors, discovering and living in the environment where you’re staying.

In 2023, I helped a group of friends plan three intense winter days: one day of dog sledding, one of snowshoeing and ice fishing, and one of snowmobiling. Everything was ready by 8 a.m., and we returned at nightfall—perfect optimization with the right gear, plus maximum guidance and safety. Thank you @Mekoos and @Notawissi!

Another benefit: you can often choose the level of service and comfort you want—meals included or not, fully equipped cabins versus isolated cabins, equipment and guides available according to your needs.

This is the philosophy at the heart of the MITIK adventure and the network of lands and outfitters gathered under this brand:

Making infinite nature accessible year-round, in Quebec and elsewhere in Canada
Offering authentic, exclusive experiences—ideal for European families seeking to disconnect
Guaranteeing absolute comfort on our own adventure territories

Tell us about your project—live your Canadian adventure—explore with the family!

And tell us about your experience afterwards.