The family-orientated ski and snowboard resort of Vallee Bleue is just north of Montréal and the Saint-Sauveur-des-Monts ski region. There are slopes here for all levels of ability and a snow park for snowboarders, while the ski school for children comes highly recommended.

Accommodation can be had in the nearby town of Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, which is also loaded with sightseeing opportunities and a host of winter activities. Hotels, condos and bed-and-breakfasts offer hundreds of reasonably priced beds, or for more of a choice, you can stay in Montréal.

The 17 runs at Vallee Bleue are divided into 25 per cent for beginners, 55 per cent for intermediates and 20 per cent for advanced and expert snowboarders and skiers. Four efficient lift systems, featuring a quadruple chairlift, can carry nearly 6,000 people per hour and provide access to all slopes, the longest of which is one kilometre.

Other, non-ski activities and facilities at Vallee Bleue ski resort include: swimming, hiking, fishing, and a playroom and entertainment for the children. For après-ski, there are shops and boutiques, and a number of restaurants and bars.

The mid-November to mid-April ski season at Vallee Bleue has its best natural snow conditions in February and cheaper rates for children and senior sliders. Flying to Montréal and catching a taxi to Vallee Bleue is the fastest way to get to the ski resort; while the bus/shuttle option, via the city, is more practical.