Centre-du-Québec Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Centre-du-Québec with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover natural attractions, cultural landmarks, food scene, and more.


Introduction to Centre-du-Québec

Located in the heart of Quebec, Centre-du-Québec is a scenic and culturally rich region that is ideal for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and vibrant local culture. The region boasts natural attractions like forests, hills, and rivers, which offer opportunities for activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. The region is also home to several museums, parks, and other cultural landmarks that provide a glimpse into the past and present of Quebec.

List of Places to Visit in Centre-du-Québec

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the must-see landmarks in Centre-du-Québec is the Village Québécois d’Antan, located in Drummondville. The village offers a glimpse of life in Quebec during the 19th century. The exhibits include more than 70 historic buildings, such as houses, shops, and schools. Visitors can also witness demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as blacksmithing and wheat threshing.

Another cultural attraction is the Musée National De La Photographie, located in Drummondville as well. The museum showcases works of some of the most renowned photographers in Canada and around the world. The museum also holds workshops, guided tours, and other educational programs.

Natural Attractions of Centre-du-Québec: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Centre-du-Québec offers a plethora of natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Parc National de la Mauricie is a vast wilderness area with forests, lakes, and rivers, which is ideal for activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.

The Parc régional du Mont-Ham, located in Stoke, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can hike to the summit of Mont Ham, which stands over 700 meters above sea level. They can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and admire the colorful fall foliage.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Centre-du-Québec

Centre-du-Québec offers many scenic routes and trails for hikers and bikers. Les sentiers de la rivières blanche, in Victoriaville, is a network of over 20 kilometers of trails, which pass through forests, meadows, and along the White River.

Another popular route is the Véloroute des Appalaches, which stretches for over 500 kilometers. The trail connects Quebec with the United States, passing through Centre-du-Québec, and offers scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Centre-du-Québec: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking, biking, and exploring cultural landmarks, there are many other exciting things to do in Centre-du-Québec. For example, the region offers horseback riding, camping, and water sports at several locations, such as Parc national de la Mauricie.

Travelers looking for adventure can also try zip-lining and aerial obstacle courses at Arbraska Rawdon, near Saint-Jean-de-Matha.

Week-Long Itinerary for Centre-du-Québec

Day 1 - 2: Start your journey by visiting Drummondville and exploring the Village Québécois d’Antan and Musée National De La Photographie.

Day 3 - 4: Take a trip to Parc National de la Mauricie and try canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.

Day 5 - 6: Visit the Véloroute des Appalaches and go on a scenic bike ride.

Day 7: Explore Saint-Jean-de-Matha and try zip-lining and aerial obstacle courses at Arbraska Rawdon.

Food and Drink Scene of Centre-du-Québec

Must-Try Dishes

The region’s food scene is renowned for its hearty traditional cuisine, featuring ingredients such as pork, beans, and maple syrup. One of the signature dishes of the region is tourtière, a savory meat pie made with pork and spices.

Pouding chômeur is another popular dessert made with cake batter, maple syrup, and cream.

Local Beverages

Quebec is famous for its craft beer and cider production, and Centre-du-Québec is no exception. One of the best-known breweries in the region is Le Bilboquet, in Saint-Hyacinthe, which offers a variety of beers made with traditional methods and locally grown hops.

Where to Stay in Centre-du-Québec: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Centre-du-Québec offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. There are several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Drummondville, offering amenities such as Wi-Fi, fitness centers, and swimming pools.

For those who prefer a more rustic experience, there are several camping sites and cabins available in Parc national de la Mauricie, which is perfect for a weekend getaway in nature.

What to Buy in Centre-du-Québec: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Besides tourtière, there are many other local products worth bringing home from Centre-du-Québec. The region is home to several maple syrup producers, such as La Sucrerie Du Domaine, in Princeville. The syrup can be found in many forms, from the traditional glass bottle to gourmet gift baskets.

Local Culture and Customs of Centre-du-Québec

Centre-du-Québec is known for its strong sense of community and pride in its heritage. The region celebrates many local festivals, such as the Festival Western de Saint-Tite, which showcases the traditions of the western lifestyle, including rodeos, concerts, and parades.

Best Time to Visit Centre-du-Québec

The best time to visit Centre-du-Québec is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. The fall season, from September to November, also offers the chance to see the brilliant autumn foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Centre-du-Québec

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including tourtière and maple syrup-based dishes.
  • Visit local museums and galleries to learn about the region’s history and culture.
  • Respect the environment and wildlife when exploring natural parks and forests.

Don’t:

  • Go hiking or camping alone without proper preparation and equipment.
  • Ignore the rules and regulations at natural reserves and parks.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment during your visit.

Safety and Health

Safety in Centre-du-Québec

Overall, Centre-du-Québec is a safe region to visit. However, visitors should take basic precautions like locking their cars and valuables and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Centre-du-Québec

The region has several hospitals and clinics, which cater to basic medical needs. Visitors should carry their medical insurance details and any necessary medication.

Getting to Centre-du-Québec: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Centre-du-Québec

The nearest airport to Centre-du-Québec is the Jean Lesage International Airport in Quebec City, which is about 120 kilometers from the region.

Bus Stations Near Centre-du-Québec

Greyhound Canada operates several bus routes, connecting Centre-du-Québec with major cities in Quebec and Canada.

Other Options

Driving is the most practical way to get around Centre-du-Québec. The region has well-maintained highways connecting all major destinations.

How to Get Around in Centre-du-Québec

Car rentals and taxis are easily available in the region. Visitors can also take public transport in major cities like Drummondville and Victoriaville.

Where to Go Next from Centre-du-Québec: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Centre-du-Québec is located in the heart of Quebec and offers easy access to several nearby destinations, including Quebec City, Montreal, and Sherbrooke.

Conclusion

Centre-du-Québec is a region that has something to offer for everyone. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, foodie experiences to scenic routes, this region should be on every traveler’s itinerary for their visit to Quebec.

Open farmland — a typical scene in the Centre-du-Québec Open farmland — a typical scene in the Centre-du-Québec Poutine Poutine


    Drummondville