Springtime in Portneuf with family
By David C, February 16 2026
Spring is the perfect season to enjoy Portneuf with your family: As nature awakens from its winter slumber, outdoor activities become accessible again, and local producers open their doors. Here are our suggestions for fun outdoor activities that are packed with discoveries and tasty treats.
The great outdoors
In Saint-Alban, be sure to check out Parc naturel régional de Portneuf, in the gorge sector of the Sainte-Anne River, a magnificent spot with easy trails that let your children burn off some energy without breaking a sweat. For an even more enjoyable experience, create a small nature treasure hunt: find a round rock, an insect, or a tree with an unusual shape! You will also find an obstacle course on site that is free to use and offers different challenges: a small suspension bridge, a maze, and a zip line are sure to keep the kids smiling.
In Neuville, take a stroll through Réserve naturelle du Marais-Léon-Provancher, an exceptional site for observing migratory birds as they make their springtime stopover. Families with young children can enjoy two scavenger hunt-type games along the trails. Don’t miss the “Les saisons au marais Provancher” podcast tour and learn about the reserve’s unique environment and its inhabitants.
Donnacona’s Parc familial des Berges is the ideal place for a short hike along its interpretive trails winding through a large marsh on the banks of the Jacques-Cartier River. And let’s not forget the children’s playground! The park’s audio guide is a great way to observe different ecosystems and animals in their natural habitat (bring your binoculars!). Visit the Ville de Donnacona website for information on nature bingo, outdoor hide-and-seek, nature checklists and much more.
Come rain or shine!
Whether it’s raining or the sun is shining, Portneuf has a warm welcome and lots to offer. From foodie stops to visits with local artisans, or a cozy night’s stay in a quaint accommodation, there’s always a way to turn a grayish day into a warm memory.
Whatever the weather may be, nothing beats a foodie stop. The region has traditional bakeries, chocolate shops, and cozy coffee shops where families are welcome. Children can enjoy a pastry, hot chocolate, or a small treat, while adults sit back and relax. Simple, comfortable and always a winning choice.
There are several villages with lovely craft shops, soap factories, and small art galleries. It is a relaxing way to spend time with your family, discover local products, and show your support for local artisans. Find out more here.
Want to see farm animals? At the end of spring, you may be lucky enough to spot the lovely Swiss brown cows from the Fromagerie des Grondines on their first outing in the fields! You can also visit the barn, the cheese shop and its ripening room. At Ferme Toudou, keep an eye out for weekend open houses so you can meet their charming alpacas.
On rainy days, head to Saint-Raymond and take on the escape room challenge at Alouette Cinema’s “Centre de formation PARAPOMPO.” And while you’re at it, why not make the most of your day by catching a movie?
Whether you’re staying at a cottage, a motel, or elsewhere, create your own family activities with your newfound discoveries: cookie baking, hot chocolate with marshmallows and whipped cream, or tasting the products you bought during the day. Light the fireplace, get out the board games and puzzles, or flip through the photos taken during your trip to create a family travel album.
Check our events calendar regularly! Shows, family activities, and community events are added every week.
Where to eat
If you want to experience the unique atmosphere of early spring in Quebec, a sugar shack is the perfect choice. Kids will love the maple taffy on snow, the fun-filled tables, and the traditional dishes.
If it’s a more casual meal you’re after, a foodie picnic made with local produce is just as enjoyable. Along the coastline, the village wharves offer perfect places to sit and enjoy the magnificent view of the river.
If you want to stock up on local delicacies, check out shops like Chez Médé, Ferme Syldia, Fromagerie des Grondines, and Fromagerie Alexis de Portneuf, which offer tons of great stuff from the region. For local pastries, stop by Le Soleil Levain bakery, and for delicious chocolates and desserts, pop into Julie Vachon Chocolats. Plan your foodie visits here.
There are several family-friendly restaurants in the area. From microbreweries to cafés and restaurants, you’ll have no trouble finding kid-friendly menus. Be sure to keep an eye out for when snack bars open, which is usually around the same time as the nice weather returns! Discover the restaurants here.
Accommodation
Looking for a place to stay overnight, there are several types of accommodations ideal for families. Chalets in the countryside and holiday centres offer a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, with direct access to walking trails and plenty of space to play outdoors.
If you prefer a cozier stay, holiday cottages, guesthouses and hotels offer comfortable rooms and, in some cases, a home-cooked breakfast that will delight both children and adults.
Finally, if you’re in the mood for a little adventure, ready-to-camp sites, yurts and rustic forest cabins are sure to be a hit with young and old alike. Discover Portneuf accommodations here.
It’s springtime in Portneuf! Come explore our marvellous region and its savours with friends and family! It’s your turn to enjoy your own family adventure. Feel free to share your best moments using the #PortneufInegalable tag.