Since I was a child I have travelled to our family cottage, located north of Montreal, several times a year. The 8 hour drive to the remote, small community of St. Donat is always worth it, when you can jump in the lake on arrival.

Lac Ouareau is a fairly large wide and deep body of water, approximately 5km long and 2km wide. My extended family (including grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends) make great use of the lake during all seasons. The name “Ouareau” stems from the native saying “changing winds” and true to character, this always makes for a fun experience on the lake. My summers have consisted of lake swims, snorkelling, kayaking, canoeing, sailing and other water sports. In the fall we have family challenges to see who can stay in the water longest; and in the winter we skate and play hockey or cross country ski on the frozen lake. I wish my favourite lake was closer to home so I could get there more often and spend more time there!