Fall into Cottage Country

Whether you live in the city or on the countryside, there is a distinct cool lightness in the air when autumn arrives.  Gone are the heavy humid summer days that can drain your energies and allow only for lazy lounging outdoors.  Conversely, autumn’s crisp and lower temperatures appear to invigorate many with a renewed energy.

At Lac de la Sucrerie, you can begin to hear the whispers of the north winds at sunset while you sit by the crackling fire pit and watch the restless lake slap against the shore a little louder than weeks before.  Nature is shifting gears, and subtly preparing us for what is to come.

For us at Chez Mina, vegetation is beginning to stand still so harvesting of our herbs has begun, and flowers and shrubs are being clipped back to rest over the fall and winter months. We are grateful for the rich bounty this land provides. Our neighbours are hurriedly making necessary repairs to their rooftops, windows and decks so that their homes can handle another winter in the Laurentians.

As the days grow shorter we grasp every daylight moment to nourish our senses with every sight, sound, scent, taste and texture of this autumnal return.

Six Activities You Can Still Enjoy During the Fall

1. Swimming:  There is a measurable chill to the lake as you take that initial dip, but surprisingly, our bodies quickly become accustomed to the temperatures and a daily dip in the lake is still possible as it is invigorating!
2. Canoeing and kayaking:  After that early morning mist has faded and the mosaic of autumn colors are visible in the distance, a meditative and relaxing glide across the beautiful Lac de la Sucrerie will fill your soul with renewed sense of purpose and peace.
   
   
   
3. Fishing:  Afternoon-early evenings are the best time to go fishing during the autumnal season since the sun is directly overhead for several hours and the water gets more comfortable near the surface and the fish are hungry and biting!  So get your rods and reels ready, and set out to catch your dinner to cook over the open fire pit or on the BBQ.
   
   
   
4. Hiking: Spending time out in nature during the fall is not only good for the body but uplifting for the soul.  The trails at Chez Mina lead to the most wondrous and breathtaking locations that nourish all our senses.  Fall is also hunting season in nearby Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle and it is encouraged to wear reflective and colorful clothing to stay safe. As part of the local culture, between the months of September to October, the distinct sounds of gunfire can be heard from a distance.
   
   
   
5. Lack of mosquitos: Mosquitos hate the cold as much as they love the summer so enjoying an evening star gazing on the inflatable by the shore without interruption is heavenly.
6. BBQ: Grilling is one of our passions at Chez Mina’s Kitchen so we keep it going until the first snowfall. There is nothing tastier than grilling our autumn fresh produce like squash, peppers and eggplants over an open flame.  That extra char ensures a delicious and moist flesh that you can enjoy as a meal or a side dish.   P.S.  Try our Baby Pumpkin Pie recipe; just in time for Thanksgiving Day celebrations!
   
   
   
    

The property is available for bookings in the Spring, Summer, and Fall.  From fishing to sea-dooing, Chez Mina is a location to please those who enjoy outdoor activities to those who prefer just to re-connect quietly with nature.  Get more details about booking Chez Mina's Guest House.

For a nominal fee, you can ask Chez Mina's Kitchen to cook you up a vegetarian meal during your stay.  Try our favourite dishes:  Grilled Bell Pepper Salad and Baby Pumpkin Pie.

Book now while space is still available!  

Call or text at 514-531-8298.

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Filomena Piccolo, Owner and Operator of Chez Mina.  Lakefront view of  Lac de la Sucrerie in the fall.