Abitibi-Témiscamingue with open arms!

Abitibi-Témiscamingue lies in the western part of Quebec along the border with Ontario. From north to south, its 65,000 km2 of lavish forests, fish-rich waters, vibrant cities and picturesque villages stretch north-south from the 49th to the 47th parallel. Some 145,000 people have chosen to live here.

The strength of our young roots explains our determination to make this land our home and to build a healthy life of exceptional quality.

Its history is closely linked to exploitation of the region's natural resources development. The region came into being in the late 18th century with the discovery of its agricultural and mineral riches. However, there is evidence of Algonquin presence in Témiscamingue for more than 8,000 years. Their contribution to the region's growth is very significant and their heritage is still alive in seven communities.

The 22,000 lakes and rivers found in Abitibi-Témiscamingue have been a facilitating factor of the region's growth. Water, the only passageway for more than two hundred years, provided explorers the means to crisscross the region. Lakes and rivers are still key assets to the people of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and the development of this vital resource constitutes a major issue.

If the northern part of the region is famous for the abundance of its mineral resources and boreal forest, the southern part has earned recognition for its fertile soil and mixed stands. From north to south, the diversity of wildlife, flora and relief gives uniqueness to the region. Abitibi-Témiscamingue is much more than two names connected with a hyphen. Abitibi-Témiscamingue is two regions in one bonded by a watershed divide. On one side, water travels north to James Bay and on the other, it flows south and drains into the St. Lawrence River.

Discover a collectivity bubbling with ideas, contrasting landscapes and lakes traveling far and wide in just one visit. From Val-d'Or to Témiscaming, via Rouyn-Noranda, Amos, La Sarre and Ville-Marie, the people of Abitibi-Témiscamingue look forward to welcoming you with open arms!