Le Baluchon, King of Green
The Baluchon’s owners have long embraced the notion of sustainable development, being rewarded for its efforts with a Grand Prix du tourisme québécois in 2010.
The Baluchon Inn sits on the banks of the picturesque Rivière du Loup, a waterway whose history alone is representative of all Mauricie’s richness and culture. Over the course of 20 years, the inn’s owners have planted entire forests of magnificent trees to preserve it’s natural environment. Le Baluchon has also banned engines on the property, inviting visitors to explore on foot, horseback, sleigh, ski or snowshoe. Even its “river theatre” was created to bypass the need for heavy infrastructure. Several years ago, the inn opted for a unique and innovative wastewater treatment system that uses reeds as a filter! I n the same eco-responsible vein, the owners gave the local economy a boost with its Éco-café Au bout du monde, a bistro and delicatessen serving only regional products that are supplied by 30 or so partners.
“Engines are banned and visitors are invited to explore on foot, horseback, sleigh…”