Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a lover of cultural discoveries, or just curious, the Vallée-de-l’Or has something for you. This vibrant part of Abitibi-Témiscamingue is brimming with unique places to explore. We’ve put together a list of the 10 must-see spots in the Vallée-de-l’Or, based on the choices and preferences of the people who live here in Abitibi-Témiscamingue.

1. Recreational forest

Man riding a mountain bike that doesn't touch the ground in the forêt récréative.

Hiking, mountain biking, obstacle courses, skating, fat biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, outdoor fire pits, visitor center, equipment rentals: “It’s nature at its best, accessible to everyone!” – Pierre, Val-d’Or.

Here are all the activities and services offered by the Val-d’Or Recreational Forest.

2. Rotary Observation Tower

A woman standing in front of a sunset on the horizon at the Rotary Tower in Val-d'Or.

The Rotary Observation Tower offers a magnificent view of the city of Val-d’Or and its surroundings. The best time of day to visit is during the musical sunset. “It’s moving,” says Normand from Val-d’Or.

Why not go there and enjoy a picnic featuring local products?

3. Canadian Malartic Mine

People posing next to a machine wheel, visiting the Canadian Malartic mine.

To learn about—and have fun discovering—what makes our soil so rich, you absolutely must visit the Canadian Malartic Mine. “It’s impressive, massive, it defines the landscape, and it’s part of who we are”—Tommy, Malartic

4. Abitibi-Témiscamingue Mineralogical Museum

Young girl observing purple amethyst quartz stones at the Mineralogical Museum in Malartic, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Quebec.

A mother and her children are walking through an exhibition at the mineral museum

A visit to the Abitibi-Témiscamingue Mineralogical Museum is a gateway to the world hidden beneath your feet. Whether you’re a mineral enthusiast or simply looking to broaden your horizons, your visit will leave you in awe of the Earth’s beauty and diversity.

5. Playing hooky

A man wearing a blue sweater hiking on the educational trail in Buissonnière Forest.

Valdorians are particularly fond of the École Buissonnière nature trail, a 3-kilometer path through a forest bordering a river. Bring a picnic!

“I recommend it for the beautiful surroundings and the abundance of birds—it’s enchanting!” Rina, Rivière-Héva.

This nature interpretive trail offers 3 km of trails for hiking enthusiasts. The Vigneault, Leclerc, and Desjardins trails are dotted with nature interpretive signs.

6. Cité de l’Or and the Bourlamaque Mining Village

Man dressed as a miner at the Cité de l'Or

A couple walking past the log cabins in the mining village of Bourlamaque.

At the Cité de l’Or in Val-d’Or, you’ll enjoy the unique experience of going underground into a real historic mine. You’ll walk in the miners’ footsteps, helmet on your head and headlamp lit.

Back on the surface, you’ll discover the city’s incredible beginnings through the Bourlamaque Mining Village, with its log cabins that are still inhabited. It’s a journey back in time… right in the heart of the region!

7. Le Prospecteur Microbrewery

Terrasse de la Microbrasserie le Prospecteur

The beer is undeniably good; it’s served by friendly staff in a great atmosphere and paired with perfectly matched dishes! We also love the variety of shows on offer, the terrace overlooking downtown, and the adjoining general store. Le Prospecteur microbrewery is a special place to spend time with friends, a drink in hand, watching the northern sun set over Val-d’Or’s main street.

8. Chocolate-Mango

A display of artisanal chocolates at the Choco Mango chocolate shop in Val-d'Or, a must-visit for foodies.

Olga, who hails from Guatemala, quickly won the hearts of the people of Valdoria with her charming personality, her top-quality chocolates, and her other sweet treats. We love old-fashioned honeymoons, chocolate and wine pairings, ice cream, spiced hot chocolate… in fact, all the products Choco-Mango has to offer!

9. L’Entracte Bar-Bistro

Terrasse du restaurant L'Entracte à Val-d'Or au printemps

Just a stone’s throw from the Bourlamaque Mining Village, L’Entracte is one of the region’s top restaurants. You’ll find a varied menu featuring tapas, sushi, and steaks, all paired with an excellent selection of wines, sparkling wines, beers, and cocktails.

The service is warm, attentive, and always with a smile. On sunny days, take a seat on the terrace to enjoy your meal in a relaxed lounge atmosphere. A great way to end your day after an underground tour!

10. Signature Sushi

Sushi Signature is a must-visit for lovers of unique flavors in Val-d’Or!

Every month, discover their tasting menu featuring 25 or 50 pieces, designed to take you on a journey through a variety of creative sushi creations. To fully enjoy these delicacies, be sure to book online via their website or Facebook page—your taste buds will thank you!

Whether you’re just passing through for a weekend or planning to stay longer, one thing is certain: the Vallée-de-l’Or will leave a lasting impression.

With its bountiful nature, living heritage, and culinary delights, these 10 must-see attractions invite you to immerse yourself in a region that shines with its richness. For the full story of a perfect stay in Val-d’Or, click here!

The Top 10 Picks in the Vallée-de-l’Or