Snowmobiling, lakes, and living heritage in the heart of the forest
Immerse yourself in nature in Mulgrave-et-Derry, an area where lakes, hills, and forests create a spectacular backdrop in every season. True to its motto , "Ad harmoniam cum natura, " which means "In harmony with nature, " the municipality reflects its residents' commitment to a lifestyle that is in balance with the environment.
The second largest territory in the Papineau RCM with an area of 317 km², Mulgrave-et-Derry is divided into two distinct sectors. Mulgrave, accessible via Route 315, extends eastward, while Derry is located to the west and can be reached via Route 309. With more than 130 lakes dotted throughout the territory, the region has long attracted fishermen, vacationers, and outdoor enthusiasts in search of unspoiled landscapes and wide open spaces.
In winter, snowmobile enthusiasts find an exceptional playground here. The Club Les Voyageurs des Collines et Ravins maintains more than 155 km of trails that crisscross forests and hills. The network extends around Lake La Blanche, an area prized for its beautiful scenery. North of the lake, the club's relay station is a popular stop to refuel, grab a bite to eat, and swap a few trail stories before setting off on another adventure.
In every season, the region also attracts mountain bikers, fishermen, and hikers who come to enjoy this wild and generous territory. Despite the vastness of its landscapes, the municipality retains an intimate character. Approximately 500 citizens reside there year-round, a population that doubles on weekends and holidays when vacationers return to their cottages to recharge their batteries by the lakes.
Mulgrave-and-Derry also has a vibrant historical heritage. Founded in 1870 by mainly German and Irish immigrants, the municipality is still home to several families descended from these pioneers. This continuity reflects the deep attachment of the inhabitants to their land.
The Mulgrave-et-Derry Historical Society actively contributes to preserving and sharing this collective memory. By appointment, visitors can view an exhibition in the rectory of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church. Artifacts, photographs, and historical documents recount the daily lives of the first inhabitants and the evolution of this community rooted in its territory.
Several historic buildings also bear witness to this past. The former Catholic church of Our Lady of Light now houses a cultural center where various activities are held throughout the year. St. Matthew's Lutheran Church and its parsonage, as well as the charming Ave Maria Chapel, remain important landmarks in the local landscape.
With its unspoiled nature, living traditions, and warm welcome, Mulgrave-et-Derry offers an authentic experience where visitors can slow down, breathe, and discover a region deeply attached to its history... and its harmony with nature.