Plan your stay by choosing a destination from among our tourist regions. Each offers landscapes, history and activities that reflect the uniqueness of our territory.
For more information and travel tips about cities and what they have to offer, we suggest visiting our city guide with over 100 cities in the USA, Canada and many other countries around the world.
THE WEST:
Abitibi-Témiscamingue:
Untouched nature, a unique history, a vibrant culture, friendly encounters... What more could you ask for!
Spanning northwestern Québec and eastern Ontario, this vast region, boasting some 22,000 lakes and rivers, covers two territories bearing Anishinabe names (from the Algonquin family of languages): Témiscamingue (deep water) and Abitibi (where the waters divide).
Mont-Vidéo
The Mont-Vidéo holiday centre is the top destination in Abitibi-Témiscamingue for skiing or snowboarding or learning these disciplines. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy a multitude of services: equipment rental, sale and repair, food services, ski school, reception hall.
Tour de l'Abitibi
UCI Nation's Cup men's junior road cycling competition, featuring the world's finest. The Tour de la Relève for younger Québec cyclists (age 6 to 16) is presented in conjunction.
Osisko en lumière
Come and vibrate with us on the Presqu’île du Lac Osisko and discover dozens of artists of all kinds, for all tastes. A weekend of music and lights that will amaze young and old alike. A major pyromusical festival for the whole family.
Laurentides:
These wide-open spaces, forests, lakes, rivers and lively towns and villages are also a playground for Montréalers.
This fabulous, fun-filled region—biking, hiking, climbing and swimming—is at Montréal’s doorstep! Foodies can enjoy local products, sports enthusiasts can appreciate the outdoors activities in the mountains, and history buffs will be astounded by the wealth of the region’s heritage.
The Chemin du Terroir
Signposted for over 226 km, the Chemin du Terroir in the Laurentides region passes through a rural territory bursting with treasures.
This 226-km (140-mi.) route is a foodie’s paradise, featuring 20 or so gourmet events, 22 stops that will make your mouth water with delight, a museum and two parks—after all, you’ll need a break to digest!
The Route des Belles-Histoires
It’s all based on a novel set in the 19thcentury. The beautiful Donalda marries the wealthy but miserly and nasty Séraphin Poudrier. He was as wicked as they come—otherwise there wouldn’t have been much of a plot!
Author Claude-Henri Grignon parachutes his fictional characters into the true story of Curé Labelle, a parish priest and veritable hero who fought for a railway to be built between Montréal and Mont-Laurier to ensure the region’s survival. That’s the backstory for this 284-km (176-mi.) tourist route.
The P’tit Train du Nord linear park
Linked to the region’s history, the old railway line of the P’tit Train du Nord has become a bike path. This 234-km section of the Route Verte runs through nature and villages. In the summer, take to the trail on foot or by bike (your luggage can be transported). In the winter, enjoy cross-country skiing in the south and snowmobiling in the north.
With a delightful blend of rural and urban elements, the park has a certain romantic air about it, following rivers and flirting with mountains, lakes and forests.
Lanaudière:
Natural, authentic and inviting. Nestled between the river and the mountains, this region offers plenty to see... and hear. With its vast open spaces and unspoiled wilderness, its 10,000 lakes and rivers—yes, they’ve all been counted!—and its waterfalls, Lanaudière is a true paradise for outdoor activities and fishing. Foodies thrive on the local products, and traditional or classical music enthusiasts can choose from an abundance of festivals.
Festival de Lanaudière
What a wonderful sight: the young and young-at-heart sitting on the grass together listening to classical music at the Festival de Lanaudière, which takes place at an impressive outdoor amphitheatre built to accommodate 8,000 people. The venue’s natural acoustics have seduced thousands of music lovers and musicians from here and abroad.
For five weeks starting in early July, Joliette turns into one big musical picnic ground. Some of Lanaudière’s churches transform into concert halls and the Rolland-Brunelle hall hosts concerts and recitals. To make it easier to attend, the Festival provides shuttle service between Montréal and Joliette. Packages are available including meals, tours of the Musée d’art de Joliette and accommodation. See you there?
Auberge du Lac Taureau
You’ll begin to unwind as soon as you turn onto Chemin de la Baie-du-Milieu, leading to the Auberge du Lac Taureau nestled deep in the woods. Set on the shores of Lac Taureau, this four-star log-structure inn oozes luxurious, rustic charm.
Its locally inspired cuisine is nothing short of exquisite, hitting the spot after a day in the great outdoors: choose from more than 30 activities, including mountain biking, canoeing, swimming, kayaking, horseback riding, hiking and tennis. Or relax at the spa, with a massage, whirlpool bath or sauna... It’s the ideal spot for taking in the lake view.
Goûtez Lanaudière! Agritourism Tours
Foodies: you’ve come to the right place. Here, the producers are not just enthusiastic, they’re downright zealous, treating their farms like living laboratories.
The result is a vast array of local products guaranteed to make any self-respecting epicure’s mouth water. Along the country roads, stop in at livestock, crop and processing farms, all showcasing Lanaudière’s knack for boldly exploring, creating and reinventing.
Mauricie:
A warm welcome always awaits you in the stunning Mauricie region.
Nestled in the heart of Québec, less than 90 minutes from major urban centres, Mauricie has much to offer. Explore this life-size playground boasting vast forests, parkland, outfitters and 17,500 lakes. It is home to a rich culture: museums, poets, storytellers, authors and musicians. Authentic and friendly... All that’s missing is you.
La Mauricie National Park
An outdoor paradise: 536 km2 (207 sq. mi.) of pure nature, 140 km (87 mi.) of trails and more than 150 lakes. Enjoy the scent of the conifer forest by day, and the aroma of toasted marshmallows over the campfire by night.
Outdoor enthusiasts are in their element: hiking, canoeing, swimming, fishing and more. True adventurers can hunker down for the night (or longer!). Pitch your tent, park your trailer, sit around the bonfire and count the stars. Or test out the oTENTik ready-to-camp accommodation—part tent, part rustic cabin—to enjoy the forest year-round, in comfort.
Amphithéâtre Cogeco and its diverse shows
Trois-Rivières has a lot to boast about: its amphitheatre features what is likely the most famous circus in the world. Cirque du Soleil has an agreement to create a series of 10 exclusive shows (suspended during the pandemic). This magnificent venue also presents a number of local and international productions in a cabaret format during the winter.
On stage and in the air, singers and acrobats dazzle the crowds. Nestled at the confluence of the St. Lawrence River and the Rivière Saint-Maurice, the stunning site provides the perfect acoustics for Cirque du Soleil to work its magic.
Highway 155 between Grandes-Piles and La Tuque
As one of the prettiest panoramic routes in Québec, the 155 is an attraction in and of itself.
Being the only highway between Trois-Rivières and La Tuque doesn’t make it a necessary evil. On the contrary: even motorcyclists seek out its delightful curves and scenery. The charm of Route 155 reveals itself in the town of Grandes-Piles, where it begins flanking the majestic Rivière Saint-Maurice. This 110-km (68-mi.) stretch toward La Tuque boasts breathtaking swaths of forest and river. In summer, the road flirts with the brilliant blue sky and white sailboats. In the fall, it snakes through the trees in full autumn colours.
Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean:
Home to abundant wilderness, a fjord, whales, an inland sea and, especially, mouth-watering blueberries!
In one area, the Saguenay River runs through a spectacular fjord. Upstream, the immense Lac Saint-Jean appears like a veritable inland sea. When the water temperature approaches 25 °C, the surrounding territory, steeped in history, offers up a variety of cultural and adventure activities in the heart of magnificent landscapes that the eyes never tire of contemplating.
Lac Saint-Jean
Covering 1,100 km², Lac Saint-Jean is almost as big as a sea. But, of course, it’s not salt water. Nonetheless, with its white sandy beaches, you’d swear you were at the seaside. Water temperatures can climb to 25 °C in summer. You can circle the lake by car or bike, and enjoy lots of family-oriented activities along the way!
You could take up a different type of challenge with the Traversée internationale du lac Saint-Jean open-water swimming competition in July. This 32-km (20 mi.) athletic undertaking from Péribonka to Roberval has become a major festival featuring shows and a supper held at a table stretching one km (0.6 mi.) long through the streets of Roberval. The festive spirit is just as huge as the local blueberries! Incidentally, Lac Saint-Jean locals are affectionately nicknamed “Bleuets,” and they are always proud to welcome you!
City of Saguenay
For a taste bud explosion, head to the city of Saguenay. Born from the merger of three municipalities, the city has three lively downtown districts. Its restaurateurs serve up local gourmet dishes: broad bean soup, meat pies, blueberry pies and other boreal flavours. The area’s microbreweries and distilleries also produce local brews.
Saguenay offers the best of two worlds: a vibrant city to indulge yourself and explore local culture – a show on the history of the region (the “Royaume”) is presented here – and, nearby, an abundance of nature at the Parc national des Monts-Valin.
The Saguenay fjord
The Rivière Saguenay fjord is among the longest in the world, stretching 105 km (65 mi.) and set between steep cliffs. Admire its sheer immensity by boat as you explore the gorges and capes bearing such divine names as Trinité and Éternité. And you’re sure to wonder how a statue of the Virgin Mary could possibly be perched so high!
Several lookouts punctuate the trails of the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay, providing breathtaking views. The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park protects the marine area. The mouth of the fjord, in the St. Lawrence estuary, attracts belugas and other sea mammals that come to feed from June to October. You can spot them from the shore or take a boat cruise for a closer look.
For more information and travel tips about cities and what they have to offer, we suggest visiting our city guide with over 100 cities in the USA, Canada and many other countries around the world.
THE EAST:
Québec, city and area:
It’s the province of Québec that took its name from the city, and not the other way around. After all, it’s the capital!
We’re proud of it and with good reason: its 4.6-km (2.8-mi.) fortress, the plains where the country’s destiny was played out and the world’s most photographed hotel—the majestic Château Frontenac... A fortified city that’s open to the world. The city of Québec lets you bask in old-European charm in a modern setting.
Old Québec
The only fortified city north of Mexico, Old Québec is best discovered by strolling through its inviting cobblestone streets. You’ll find yourself in an area that’s centuries old yet wired for the future. Shopping and dining experiences await as part of the wintry magic and summer rhythms.
The mix of French, British, Indigenous and North American influences can be felt all around at Place-Royale, where the city was founded. You’ll think you somehow stumbled onto a movie set... and you actually have, as many filmmakers have chosen Old Québec for their backdrop. To go from lower town to upper town, take the challenge of climbing the Casse-Cou stairs or opt for a ride up in the funicular linked to Dufferin Terrace, where Château Frontenac looks out over the St. Lawrence River. You’ll want to continue exploring all the way up to Saint-Louis Gate, the Citadelle, the Parliament Building… before taking a well-deserved break on the Plains of Abraham.
Montmorency Falls
At 83 m (272 ft.) in height, the impressive Montmorency Falls are a full 30 m (98 ft.) higher than Niagara Falls.
Whether by car or public transit, this outing will be the high point of your day: all the lookout points for taking in the falls will have you constantly reaching for your camera, whether it’s from the suspension bridge or the 487-step panoramic staircase. You can also fly past the falls on a zip line, stretching some 300 m (984 ft.), or in a cable car from the station at the foot of the falls. Or admire the falls from the vantage points offered by any of three cliffside adventure circuits (via ferrata); in this case, your hands probably won’t be free for taking photos! But you’ll certainly have lots of exciting stories to tell later.
Île d’Orléans
Feeling a bit hungry? Where better to tempt your tastes buds than on Île d’Orléans, located in the St. Lawrence River across from Montmorency Falls. Vineyard, chocolate maker, vegetable farms, strawberry fields, large orchards, maple groves... the attractions of this agritourism paradise are equalled only by the hospitality of the local producers and artisans.
A trip to the island—67 km (42 mi.) by car or on bike—is a trip back in time. At the Maison de nos Aïeux, you just may discover that your ancestors were among the 300 families that arrived from France and went on to settle all over North America. You’ll also want to visit the 18th-century flour mill now converted into a restaurant as well as the Espace Félix-Leclerc, which pays tribute to the poet and singer in what was his last home. Take in a show at the coffee shop–concert hall, and stroll down the trail to the river. It’s like walking in Félix’s footsteps!
Charlevoix:
The Charlevoix region boasts exceptional natural beauty and is the ideal spot to relax and re-energize.
Charlevoix is steeped in more than 200 years of tourist adventures and fascinating discoveries. It exudes a particular energy and an unrivalled richness and diversity. Its varied landscapes from sea to mountains inspires exceptional creations, products, flavours and memorable moments.
Observing marine mammals
Sculpted between the sea and the mountains, the Charlevoix landscape is modulated by the majestic St. Lawrence River. Marine mammals migrate through this area between May and the end of October. The town of Baie-Sainte-Catherine welcomes visitors keen to observe the whales and snap photos when they surface. A fun challenge!
Discovering local flavours
“Oh, you’re going to Charlevoix? Lucky you, you’ll just love the food!” This common reaction is because the region is known for its outstanding local fare: cheese, lamb, beer and other high-quality products many of which bear the Table agro-touristique de Charlevoix certification (“Certifié Terroir Charlevoix”).
The Flavour Trail agritourism circuit promises a gastronomical tour to visit livestock operations, vegetable growers, restaurateurs, producers, processors... all of them passionate, creative and innovative. Chat with them and you’ll see!
A hiking paradise
There’s nothing better than the wide-open spaces of Charlevoix, where you’ll be mezmerized by some of the most spectacular scenery in Québec. From the charming coastal village of Petite-Rivière-Saint-François to Baie-Sainte-Catherine, through an impressive range of backcountry mountains, more than 550 km of hiking trails criss-cross the region.
Walkers get a bird’s eye view of the shades of blue in the St. Lawrence River and of the green hues of the forests and mountains. And how about a splash of sunny yellow with that? There’s a good reason why artists adore this region!
Côte-Nord:
Côte-Nord is a region of endless larger-than-life scenery. A road trip you need to take at least once in your lifetime.
The Whale Route (Route des Baleines) stretches for over 800 km (497 mi.) along the St. Lawrence River, from Tadoussac to Kegaska, at the end of Route 138. You can also explore toward the north, heading out from Baie-Comeau, to see the gigantic hydroelectric facilities―our very own modern-day pyramids!
Tadoussac
Sitting along the majestic St. Lawrence River, Tadoussac is the starting point of the Whale Route (Route des Baleines), at the mouth of the Fjord du Saguenay. It’s where the sea giants come to feed in summer and fall. In addition to whale-watching cruises, Tadoussac is also known for its history, lively summer seasons and Festival de la Chanson.
Tadoussac was New France’s first fur trading post in 1600. Today, the beavers and other animals live quietly in nature. Visitors can discover the way of life of long ago at the Chauvin Trading Post.
Whale Route (Route des Baleines)
It’s not the squirrels in our backyard that grab our attention; it’s the whales in our river. In fact, from Tadoussac onward, Route 138 takes on a new name, becoming the Whale Route (Route des Baleines), marked with attractive blue signs with a little white whale, to make sure you don’t miss the many sites devoted to our marine mammals.
The route runs for 880 km (547 mi.), following the path of these sea giants. Thirteen whale species roam the St. Lawrence River during the summer and fall. You can catch sight of them from the shore or on the water, aboard a cruise boat, sea kayak or Zodiac boat, and you will even hear them sing!
Mingan Archipelago
Protecting more than 1,000 islands and islets over 110 km2 (43 sq. mi.), the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve has the largest concentration of monoliths in Canada. Mono what? Monoliths are colossal upright limestone outcroppings. An unusual Côte-Nord geological feature, these rocks erode over time as they are sculpted by the sea and wind. They take the shape of flower pots and other surprising artistic forms created by Mother Nature.
Whether from a boat, kayak, sailboat or stand-up paddleboard, or on foot on the islands, you’ll be able to immortalize this corner of the world by photographing the unbridled landscapes, unique flora—including rare plants—and bustling wildlife. By the way, if you’re looking for sea parrots on the Île aux Perroquets island, you should know that “perroquet” is the nickname given to the comical Atlantic puffin.
Îles de la Madeleine:
Everything is appealing and mouth-watering when it comes to this archipelago of a dozen islands in the heart of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
The inhabitants’ warm hospitality is equalled only by the diversity and talent found here, from a cultural standpoint and in terms of gastronomy and local products. It’s also a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers. The many white sandy beaches that stretch for as far as the eye can see and the spectacular sunsets will leave a lasting impression.
300 km of beaches
Put end to end, the Islands’ 300 km of beaches represent more than the distance from Montréal to Québec City (250 km) and slightly less than the distance from Boston to New York (350 km). That makes for a pretty nice playground. And with so many beaches, it’s practically your duty to spend a day basking in the sun or making sandcastles!
The sea, red cliffs and pale dunes are ever present, providing a postcard setting that has established the Islands’ reputation. Take time to slow down, contemplate the sea, go swimming (the water can actually reach 18–20 °C / 64–68 °F!), or get an adrenaline rush through windsurfing... There’s no shortage of fun activities.
Savouring the sea’s bounty
On the Islands, the sea offers us its most prized treasures. It’s particularly in May and June that the curious gather on the docks, teeming with activity, to watch the fishing boats arrive. And it’s no surprise that later, we’re able to savour a meal of fresh snow crab, tender scallops or the incomparable Island lobster.
Fish and seafood are the main features of the local cuisine. You’ll savour unforgettable gastronomical delights with tender scallops, delicious snow crab and the incomparable Island lobster. And you’ll also want to taste the local beers, fine cheeses and smoked products, such as cured herring. The culinary know-how of the Madelinots is found in the local Island products. Search for the label “Le Bon Goût Frais des Îles de la Madeleine” during your stay!
Gaspésie:
At the end of the world, or almost, the peninsula reigns over the Gulf of St. Lawrence, with Percé rock as its crowning jewel
Gaspésie... home to spectacular seascapes, mountains and crystal-clear rivers, as well as a vast array of activities and impressive cuisine drawn from the sea, land and forests. Discover the world’s most accessible Northern gannet colony, moose, whales and towering peaks reaching over 1,000 m in height. But best of all is Gaspésie’s legendary hospitality.
The Gaspésie Tour
This roughly 900-km loop route is tucked in between the sea and the mountains and features valleys, bays, shores and rivers. The north route follows the coastline of the vast St. Lawrence River to the tip of the peninsula where you can take in the immense gulf. The south route follows the lush Matapédia valley—salmon country.
The long, sandy beaches and temperate waters of Chaleur Bay make it a favourite among water sports enthusiasts. The bay also hugs the cliffs of the Parc national de Miguasha, a site featuring well-preserved fossils dating back 380 million years.
Percé and its magnificent rock
In 1603, Samuel de Champlain came upon an islet consisting of a huge sheer rock formation with a natural arch, which he baptized “Isle Percée” (pierced island). With time, both the town and the rock took on the name of Percé. Today, only one arch remains on the giant monolith, which loses 300 tonnes of rocks each year. Too much erosion to allow for anyone to get close to the site. But that’s okay because you actually have a better view from an excursion boat.
It will take you to the Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé, where you can explore the trails on the island, which is the sanctuary of the largest colony of Northern gannets in the world. Nearly 116,000 of these elegant white birds nest there from April to October. You just need to listen: the distant cackling becomes an assault of raucous calls when you come within a few metres of these winged creatures that are the delight of photographers.
Wildlife observation
Visitors from all over come to observe the most accessible colony of Northern gannets in the world. Each year, 200,000 birds belonging to 11 different species, including more than 100,000 Northern gannets, travel to nest on the cliffs of Bonaventure Island, North America’s largest migratory bird sanctuary.
Between May and October, seven whale species come to the Forillon-Percé area, including the gigantic blue whale.
Bas-Saint-Laurent:
The Bas-Saint-Laurent region invites you to its World Good Life Reserve of rivers, lakes and mountains.
You could say the good life is our specialty, seeing as there’s so much for you to see and do here: from islands, lighthouses, national parks and sea mammals, to sunsets, bike paths and local products... Come make the good life yours!
The islands of the Bas-Saint-Laurent region
Their charming names bring a smile to your face: Île Verte (Green Island), Île aux Basques (Basque Island), Île Saint-Barnabé (St. Barnaby’s Island), Pot à L’Eau-de-Vie archipelago (Brandy Pot Islands), Île aux Lièvres (Hare Island)… This string of islands dots the St. Lawrence River, and many of them are accessible in the summer, from Rivière-du-Loup, Rimouski or the village of L’Isle-Verte.
Venture out by boat on a guided tour to learn the history of these islands and observe birds, whales, seals, belugas and dolphins... The Estuary Islands National Wildlife Area between Kamouraska and Rimouski protects this stunning natural landscape. Hike, camp, sleep in a lighthouse, bird watch, relax and re-energize: peace and quiet and utter beauty await you.
Parc national du Bic
As legend has it, an angel shook out its pockets over the river, creating the Bic mountains and islands. Set in the St. Lawrence estuary, Parc national du Bic features headlands, bays, coves, islands and mountains spread over 33 km2 (13 sq. mi.). Strangely, before setting foot inside the park, it’s virtually impossible to imagine the countless vistas and vantage points in store. Once inside, the closer you get to the river, the more magical everything becomes.
It’s postcard perfect: some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, numerous species of flocking and nesting seabirds, rare plants blooming on the rocky capes, seals basking in the sun and watchful white-tailed deer and foxes... And what a magnificent playground for camping, kayaking and hiking.
Parc national du Lac-Témiscouata
Surrounding Lac Témiscouata, one of the most magnificent lakes south of the St. Lawrence River, Parc national du Lac-Témiscouata is immense, stretching over 175 km2 (68 sq. mi.)! It boasts 10,000 years of human history, from the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) hunters and stone carvers to 21st century tourists.
We are only just discovering the rich history of this land through the work of on-site archeologists. The public is invited to take part in archeological digs, so who knows what future vocations this might inspire... Imagine your kids discovering an Indian arrow! Visitors can enjoy canoe excursions and many other outdoor activities, including hikes along more than 35 km (22 mi.) of trails.
Chaudière-Appalaches:
The vast Chaudière-Appalaches region, on the south side of the river facing the capital, is one big playground.
We have everything! From the 350 years of history that shaped modern Québec since the pioneers of New France, to country-style restaurants that reveal the know-how of local producers... and more!
Saint-Jean-Port-Joli
In Québec, Saint-Jean-Port-Joli has enjoyed a reputation for its sculptors for more than a century, starting with the Bourgault brothers.
It is also home to a former seigneury manor house that is now a museum of living memory and intangible heritage—providing you with details that aren’t in the history books. Every year, this treasured lore, including the region’s maritime past, is celebrated. In August, you can sway to the sounds of “sea shanties”—traditional maritime work songs... “Hoist, pump, row, drink!” And speaking of drinking, why not kick back with a craft brew, such as a Monsieur Madame, at the Ras l’Bock microbrewery and take in the sea view from beneath the wooden arches of its terrace. For theatre buffs and foodies: don’t miss the La Roche à Veillon theatre and restaurant, featuring top-notch shows and scrumptious traditional Québec cuisine.
Parc régional des Appalaches
A simply phenomenal park: three activity areas reflecting the complex biodiversity of the Appalachians, three summits with breathtaking views. What’s more, the park offers special activities for dog owners and their four-legged friends. Isn’t that the cat’s meow?
The park boasts 140 km (87 mi.) of trails: biking, hiking and cani-RAID (adventure courses with your dog). They’ve thought of everything.
Isle-aux-Grues archipelago
Islands are always a little mysterious, but a 21-island archipelago with so much to offer spells veritable adventure!
These islands are home to no less than 250 bird species. From the timid little penguins known as razorbills that stick together in little groups, to the extroverted snow geese that prefer crowds, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise. To protect this fragile ecosystem, the Jean-Paul-Riopelle Nature Reserve was established on a 300-hundred-year-old maple grove. These maples witnessed a century of immigrants coming up the river to Grosse-Île, home to human tragedy and exceptional dedication.
For more information and travel tips about cities and what they have to offer, we suggest visiting our city guide with over 100 cities in the USA, Canada and many other countries around the world.
