Charlevoix Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Charlevoix with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best restaurants, attractions, and things to do in this charming Quebecois region.


Introduction to Charlevoix

Nestled in Central Quebec, Charlevoix is a charming region known for its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore museums and historical sites, hike or bike through stunning landscapes, and enjoy local cuisine and beverages. Here’s a comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Charlevoix.

List of Places to Visit in Charlevoix

Charlevoix offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musée de Charlevoix: Explore the region’s history through paintings, artifacts, and objects relating to everyday life in Charlevoix.
  • Moulin Seigneurial de Pointe-Aux-Trembles: A beautifully restored watermill which is still operational today.
  • Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive Maritime Museum: A fascinating museum which showcases exhibits on the maritime history of the St. Lawrence River.

Natural Attractions of Charlevoix: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie: Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Charlevoix area with a hike through the park’s majestic canyons and mountains.
  • Parc National des Grands-Jardins: Famous for its diverse range of flora and fauna, this park offers numerous hiking trails and camping opportunities.
  • Les Jardins de Quatre-Vents: A stunning botanical garden located in La Malbaie, with a fascinating collection of plants from around the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Charlevoix

Charlevoix is home to some of the best hiking and biking opportunities in Quebec. Here are some routes to consider:

  • Sentier Les Palissades: A 4.6 km hiking trail that offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and Charlevoix’s rugged landscape.
  • Sentier des Caps: A 54 km hiking trail that offers incredible views of the Charlevoix coast, mountains, and forests.
  • Le P’tit Train du Nord: A 232 km bike trail that stretches from Saint-Jérôme to Mont-Laurier and passes through Charlevoix.

Best Things to Do in Charlevoix: Activities and Tours

Charlevoix offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some highlights:

  • Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to observe whales in their natural habitat in the St. Lawrence River.
  • Helicopter Tour: Get a bird’s eye view of Charlevoix’s stunning countryside from a helicopter.
  • Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of dog sledding through Charlevoix’s winter wonderland.

Week-Long Itinerary for Charlevoix

For a week-long visit to Charlevoix, consider the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit Musée de Charlevoix and Les Jardins de Quatre-Vents.
  • Day 2: Hike Sentier des Caps.
  • Day 3: Take a whale watching tour and enjoy a local seafood dinner.
  • Day 4: Explore Moulin Seigneurial de Pointe-Aux-Trembles and Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive Maritime Museum.
  • Day 5: Bike Le P’tit Train du Nord.
  • Day 6: Hike Parc National des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie.
  • Day 7: Take a helicopter tour and enjoy a dog sledding adventure.

Food and Drink Scene of Charlevoix

Charlevoix’s food and drink scene is known for its locally sourced ingredients and traditional Quebecois cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: A Quebecois classic, made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  • Tourtière: A meat pie made with beef, pork, or veal.
  • Maple Syrup Products: Charlevoix is known for its maple syrup which is used in everything from salad dressings to desserts.

Local Beverages

  • Ice Cider: A sweet and refreshing cider made with frozen apples.
  • Unibroue Beer: Locally brewed beer that is renowned throughout Quebec and North America.

Where to Stay in Charlevoix: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Charlevoix offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style. Here are some options:

  • Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu: A luxury hotel that boasts stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and offers world-class amenities.
  • Auberge La Muse: A charming bed and breakfast located in Baie-Saint-Paul that offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.
  • HI-Charlevoix Hostel: A budget-friendly option that offers dorms and private rooms, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge.

What to Buy in Charlevoix: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Charlevoix is famous for its local products, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts. Here are some must-buy items:

  • Local Cheese: Charlevoix is known for its cheese, particularly the famous Le Migneron de Charlevoix.
  • Artisanal Soap: Handmade soaps that are made with natural ingredients and scented with local botanicals.
  • Antiques and Vintage Finds: Explore the antique shops in Baie-Saint-Paul to find unique vintage treasures.

Local Culture and Customs of Charlevoix

Charlevoix has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Here are some customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind:

  • Language: While most locals speak both French and English, French is the primary language in Charlevoix.
  • Greetings: It is customary to greet people with a handshake or kiss on the cheek.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Charlevoix, but rounding up to the nearest dollar is appreciated.

Best Time to Visit Charlevoix

The best time to visit Charlevoix depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Summer: June to September is the most popular time to visit Charlevoix when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing.
  • Fall: September to November is a great time to visit Charlevoix when the leaves change color, and harvest festivals are taking place.
  • Winter: December to February is a winter wonderland in Charlevoix, with plenty of opportunities for snowshoeing, skiing, and other winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Charlevoix

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Charlevoix:

Do:

  • Try the Local Cuisine: Charlevoix is known for its delicious food and drink scene, so don’t miss out on the local specialties.
  • Pack Appropriate Clothing: Bring layers and outdoor gear depending on the time of year you visit.
  • Respect the Local Environment: Charlevoix is a natural wonderland, so respect the environment by taking only photos and leaving only footprints.

Don’t:

  • Assume Everyone Speaks English: While many locals do speak English, French is the primary language in Charlevoix.
  • Overlook the Small Towns: Charlevoix’s small towns offer charm and culture that you won’t find in the larger cities.
  • Forget Your Camera: Charlevoix’s stunning landscapes and historic architecture are not to be missed.

Safety and Health

Charlevoix is a safe and healthy destination for travelers. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Charlevoix

  • Crime: Charlevoix is a low-crime area, with most incidents involving petty theft.
  • Driving: Be cautious while driving on the winding roads and keep an eye out for wildlife.
  • Hiking/Biking: Always hike or bike with a partner and tell someone where you’re going.

Health in Charlevoix

  • Water: Tap water is safe to drink in Charlevoix.
  • Air Quality: Charlevoix has good air quality overall, but visitors with respiratory issues may wish to consult a doctor before visiting.

Getting to Charlevoix: Transportation Options and Logistics

Charlevoix can be reached by car, bus, or plane. Here are some options:

Airports Near Charlevoix

  • Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport: The closest airport to Charlevoix, about 110 km away.
  • Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport: About 360 km away and connected by bus services to the region.

Bus Stations Near Charlevoix

  • Gare d’autocars de Quebec: The main bus station in Quebec City, which connects to Charlevoix via local bus services.

Other Options

  • Car: Renting a car is a great option for exploring Charlevoix and the surrounding region.
  • Train: The Charlevoix Railway provides service to Baie-Saint-Paul from Quebec City.

How to Get Around in Charlevoix

Charlevoix is best explored by car or bike, but local bus services are also available. Here are some options:

  • Car Rentals: Rental cars are available from Quebec City and other major cities in the region.
  • Bike Rentals: Bike rentals are available in Charlevoix, which is a great way to explore the local countryside.
  • Local Bus Services: Local buses connect major towns and attractions in Charlevoix.

Where to Go Next from Charlevoix: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Charlevoix is well-connected to other destinations in Quebec and North America. Here are some options:

  • Quebec City: Only a 1.5-hour drive away, Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history and vibrant culture.
  • Tadoussac: A 1.5-hour drive away, Tadoussac is famous for its whale watching and stunning natural landscapes.
  • Montreal: A 4-hour drive away, Montreal is one of Canada’s largest cities and boasts a diverse range of attractions, including museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Conclusion

Charlevoix is a fantastic destination for travelers who love nature, culture, and adventure. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip, whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring museums, or trying local cuisine. Don’t forget to take in the unbeatable natural beauty and unique cultural heritage that Charlevoix has to offer. Bon voyage!

Charlevoix is known for its hilly landscape Charlevoix is known for its hilly landscape Landscape just outside Tadoussac Landscape just outside Tadoussac


    Baie-Sainte-Catherine
    Clermont
    Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park
    L'Ange-Gardien
    L'Isle-aux-Coudres
    La Malbaie
    Les Éboulements
    Notre-Dame-des-Monts
    Saint-Aimé-des-Lacs
    Saint-Irénée
    Saint-Tite-des-Caps