Clermont Travel Guide

Explore the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and cultural customs of Clermont. Plan your trip with our detailed itinerary and transportation guide.


Introduction to Clermont

Nestled in Charlevoix, Central Quebec, is an idyllic town called Clermont. Its picturesque charm, rich culture, and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for travelers. Clermont is home to stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions that offer visitors a chance to explore and discover new wonders. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will introduce you to the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and cultural customs of Clermont. Plan your trip with our detailed itinerary and transportation guide and explore Clermont to the fullest!

List of Places to Visit in Clermont

Clermont offers a myriad of attractions and places to visit. Whether you are interested in history, culture, outdoor adventures, or stunning landscapes, Clermont has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit places in Clermont.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Économusée du Fromage: Learn about the history and art of cheese-making at this museum. Watch artisans crafting cheese and sample various types of cheese on display.

  • Musée de la Mémoire Vivante: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the region. Learn about the everyday life of the early settlers and explore the artifacts and documents on display.

  • Église Saint-Clément: This stunning church was built in the early 19th century and is a testament to the rich religious history of Clermont.

Natural Attractions of Clermont: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc national des Grands-Jardins: This national park offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of the region. Hike or bike along the trails, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

  • Mont Grand-Fonds: Ski or snowboard on the slopes of this mountain in the winter, or hike along the trails in the summer and fall. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Baie-Saint-Paul: This picturesque town is situated along the St. Lawrence River and offers visitors a chance to explore the charming streets, quaint shops, and beautiful landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Clermont

Clermont is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and biking. The region is dotted with trails that offer stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Clermont.

  • Sentier Mont du Lac des Cygnes: Hike along this trail and enjoy the stunning views of Mont du Lac des Cygnes. Watch for wildlife along the way, including deer and moose.

  • Le Chemin des Chutes: This trail takes you along the waterfalls and rapids of the River du Gouffre. Enjoy the sound of the rushing water and the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

  • La Route des Montagnes: This biking route takes you through the mountains and valleys of Charlevoix. Enjoy the stunning views of the landscape and the fresh mountain air.

Best Things to Do in Clermont: Activities and Tours

Clermont offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours to choose from. Here are some of the best things to do when you are in Clermont.

  • Parcours des Crèches: This Christmas-themed event takes place during the holiday season and features a trail of over 160 nativity scenes throughout the town.

  • Bar à Pitons: Enjoy a drink and some live music at this cozy bar located in the heart of Clermont.

  • Le Gouffre: Go on a whale-watching tour and see these majestic creatures up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Clermont

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Clermont:

  • Day 1: Visit the Économusée du Fromage and the Musée de la Mémoire Vivante
  • Day 2: Hike along the Sentier des Caps and enjoy the scenic views of the St. Lawrence River.
  • Day 3: Ski or snowboard on Mont Grand-Fonds.
  • Day 4: Explore the charming town of Baie-Saint-Paul and its quaint shops and streets.
  • Day 5: Take a whale-watching tour at Le Gouffre.
  • Day 6: Sample the local cuisine and enjoy live music at the Bar à Pitons.
  • Day 7: Relax and unwind at one of the local spas, such as Spa du Verger.

Food and Drink Scene of Clermont

Clermont is home to a vibrant food and drink scene that offers visitors a chance to sample the local cuisine and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: This iconic Quebec dish is made with french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. Try it at Chez Boulette’s.

  • Tourtière: This savory pie is filled with meat and spices and is a staple of Quebecois cuisine. Try it at La Maison de la Pomme.

  • Tarte au Sucre: This classic Quebecois dessert is made with maple syrup and sugar. Try it at Le Comptoir de la Pomme.

Local Beverages

  • Cider: The region is known for its delicious apple cider. Sample it at Verger Pednault.

  • Wine: The Charlevoix region is famous for its wine. Try it at Les Pervenches.

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

Clermont offers visitors a wide range of accommodations to choose from. Here are some of the best options:

  • Auberge Couleurs de France: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of Clermont and offers cozy rooms and homemade breakfasts.

  • Manoir Charlevoix: This luxurious hotel offers breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and top-notch amenities.

  • Gîte Les Colibris: This cozy bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.

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

Clermont offers visitors a chance to bring home some unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best options:

  • Cheese: Bring home some of the delicious cheeses from Économusée du Fromage.

  • Cider: Get some of the famous apple cider from Verger Pednault to take home.

  • Artisanal Products: Bring home some handmade products from local artisans. Check out the Christmas market during the holidays.

Local Culture and Customs of Clermont

Clermont is known for its rich culture and customs. Visitors should be aware of the following customs:

  • Language: French is the official language of Quebec, although many people in Clermont speak both French and English.

  • Tipping: It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants and for services such as haircuts and massages.

  • Religion: Christianity is the dominant religion of the region, and many of the local traditions and celebrations are rooted in the Catholic faith.

Best Time to Visit Clermont

The best time to visit Clermont is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities abound. However, the fall foliage also makes for a stunning landscape, and winter sports attract many visitors as well.

Do’s and Don’ts of Clermont

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Clermont:

Do:

  • Learn some basic French phrases before you go.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

  • Respect the customs and traditions of the region.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Don’t be loud or disruptive in public spaces.

  • Don’t ignore the customs and traditions of the region.

Safety and Health

Safety in Clermont

Clermont is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should take standard precautions to ensure their safety. Keep an eye on your valuables and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Clermont

Clermont has good healthcare facilities, and visitors should have no trouble receiving necessary medical care. Make sure you have adequate health insurance before you go.

Getting to Clermont: Transportation Options and Logistics

Clermont is easily accessible by various means of transportation. Here are some of the best options:

Airports Near Clermont

  • Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport: This airport is approximately 100 km from Clermont.

  • Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport: This airport is approximately 350 km from Clermont.

Bus Stations Near Clermont

  • Gare Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré: This station is approximately 25 km from Clermont.

  • Gare de La Malbaie: This station is approximately 40 km from Clermont.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a great way to get around the region and explore its many attractions.

  • Biking: Biking is a popular mode of transportation in the region and a great way to explore the local landscape.

How to Get Around in Clermont

Clermont is a relatively small town, and most attractions and places of interest are easily accessible on foot or by bike. However, renting a car is also an excellent option for exploring the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Clermont: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Clermont is situated in a beautiful region with many nearby destinations and excursions to visit. Here are some of the best options:

  • Quebec City: Explore the historic city, enjoy the famous carnival, and try the local cuisine.

  • Tadoussac: Go whale-watching and explore the charming town.

  • Montreal: Enjoy the dynamic city, explore the museums and galleries, and try the famous bagels.

Conclusion

Clermont is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to explore a charming town with stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide and make the most of your trip to Clermont!

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