ZEC de la Bessonne Travel Guide

Plan your trip to ZEC de la Bessonne, the hidden gem of Quebec, with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, food and drink scene, and where to stay.


Introduction to ZEC de la Bessonne

ZEC de la Bessonne is a hidden gem in the La Tuque region of Mauricie in Central Quebec, Canada. This wilderness area covers over 1,500 square kilometers and features more than 400 lakes and rivers. ZEC de la Bessonne is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience nature in its purest form. The area is home to various wildlife species, including moose, black bears, and bald eagles.

List of Places to Visit in ZEC de la Bessonne

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Historical Village of Val-Jalbert: This restored company town was once home to a pulp and paper mill and features over 40 original buildings.
  • Museum of the Fur Trade: Learn about the role of fur trading in Canada’s history at this museum located in the village of La Tuque.

Natural Attractions of ZEC de la Bessonne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Carillon: This stunning lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
  • Mount Otis: Hike to the summit of Mount Otis for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness area.
  • Le Petit Train du Nord: Rent bikes and cycle along this rail trail that spans across several cities and landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of ZEC de la Bessonne

  • Sentier De La Carrière- The trailhead for Sentier De La Carrière is just outside the town of La Tuque. This hike is approximately 5.5 km long and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The trail winds through dense forest and past several small waterfalls.
  • Sentier de la Pointe Giffard - This 3.5 km hike through the woods leads to a lookout overlooking Lake Carillon. It is a relatively easy hike and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in ZEC de la Bessonne: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing: With over 400 lakes and rivers, ZEC de la Bessonne is a fishing paradise. You can fish for various species, including trout and pike.
  • Canoeing: Rent a canoe and paddle through peaceful lakes and streams.
  • Wildlife Watching: Hop on a guided tour, and try to spot moose, black bears, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for ZEC de la Bessonne

Day Activities
1 Explore the historical village of Val-Jalbert
2 Canoe on Lake Carillon
3 Hike to the summit of Mount Otis
4 Go on a guided moose watching tour
5 Try fishing in one of the many lakes
6 Cycle along the Le Petit Train du Nord
7 Relax and enjoy the scenery

Food and Drink Scene of ZEC de la Bessonne

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poulet à la creme: This chicken dish in cream sauce is a regional specialty.
  • Tourtière: A meat pie filled with pork and spices, Tourtière is a traditional French Canadian dish.

Local Beverages

  • Ice Cider: This dessert wine is made from frozen apples.

Where to Stay in ZEC de la Bessonne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Gîte Le Saint-Laurent: This bed and breakfast are located in the village of La Tuque. Rooms are cozy and decorated in a traditional style.
  • Camping ZEC de la Bessonne: This campground is located in the heart of the wilderness area and offers campsites and rustic cabins.
  • Gîte L’Aubergine: This charming guesthouse is located near Lake Carillon and offers comfortable rooms and a shared living room with a fireplace.

What to Buy in ZEC de la Bessonne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maple Syrup: Quebec is famous for its maple syrup, and ZEC de la Bessonne has many local producers.
  • Handmade Crafts: Visit the market in the village of La Tuque and browse handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of ZEC de la Bessonne

The people of Quebec have a rich cultural heritage, and the French language and traditions are still important in daily life. Quebec is famous for its cuisine, music, and arts, and the people are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Best Time to Visit ZEC de la Bessonne

The best time to visit ZEC de la Bessonne is from June to October when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. In the winter, the area is covered in snow and offers opportunities for snowshoeing and ice fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of ZEC de la Bessonne

Do:

  • Respect the wildlife and their habitats.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the wilderness area.
  • Disturb the natural environment in any way.

Safety and Health

Safety in ZEC de la Bessonne

  • Be prepared for the wilderness by carrying proper gear and equipment.
  • Follow safety guidelines while participating in outdoor activities.
  • Keep a safe distance from wildlife.

Health in ZEC de la Bessonne

  • Be prepared for insect bites and carry bug spray.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Getting to ZEC de la Bessonne: Transportation Options and Logistics

The nearest airport to ZEC de la Bessonne is in Trois-Rivières, and the nearest train station is in La Tuque. You can also drive to the area, and there is ample parking available.

Airports Near ZEC de la Bessonne

  • Trois-Rivières Airport: Located about 1.5 hours away from ZEC de la Bessonne.
  • Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport: Located about 2.5 hours away from ZEC de la Bessonne.

Bus Stations Near ZEC de la Bessonne

  • La Tuque Bus Station: Located in the village of La Tuque.

Other Options

  • Drive a car to the ZEC de la Bessonne, as it is easily accessible by road.

How to Get Around in ZEC de la Bessonne

The best way to get around ZEC de la Bessonne is by car. You can also rent bikes or hike to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from ZEC de la Bessonne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mauricie National Park: Located about an hour away from ZEC de la Bessonne, this national park is home to beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife.
  • Saint-Élie-de-Caxton: This picturesque village, located about an hour away, is the hometown of Quebec’s famous author Fred Pellerin and is known for its artistic community.

Conclusion

ZEC de la Bessonne is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. This hidden gem in Quebec offers a range of activities and accommodations to suit any traveler’s needs. With our comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to ZEC de la Bessonne and experience the best of Quebec’s wilderness area.