Shawinigan Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty and rich culture and customs of Shawinigan through our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking trails, food and drinks, accommodations, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Shawinigan

Nestled in the heart of the Mauricie region, Shawinigan is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located in central Quebec, Canada, Shawinigan boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture that attracts tourists from all over the world.

With breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the many parks and trails in the area. Culture buffs will delight in exploring the various museums and historical sites, while foodies will love indulging in the local cuisine. Whatever your interest, Shawinigan has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll highlight the must-see attractions, best activities, food and drink options, accommodations, and nearby destinations for your perfect Shawinigan experience.

List of Places to Visit in Shawinigan

To help plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the top attractions in Shawinigan:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musée de la Femme: This museum showcases the important role of women throughout history and their contributions to society.
  • Domaine seigneurial Sainte-Anne: A historic manor house dating back to the 19th century that has been restored to its former glory.
  • La Cité de l’énergie: Explore hydroelectricity and energy production at this interactive museum.

Natural Attractions of Shawinigan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc national de la Mauricie: Experience the great outdoors with hiking trails, lakes for swimming, and opportunities to spot wildlife such as moose and bears.
  • Vallée-du-Parc: A ski resort in the winter and a mountain bike destination in the summer, with stunning views of the St-Maurice River Valley.
  • Parc de l’île Melville: A beautiful park on an island in the St-Maurice River with stunning views, walking trails, and a beach.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shawinigan

Shawinigan is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of hiking and biking trails to explore:

  • Le Rocher de Grand-Mère: A popular trail that takes hikers to a scenic lookout with views of the Saint-Maurice River and surrounding mountains.
  • La Promenade du Saint-Maurice: A scenic bike path that winds along the St-Maurice River.
  • Les sentiers Lac-à-la-Tortue: A series of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding forest.

Best Things to Do in Shawinigan: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural beauty and cultural attractions, Shawinigan offers a range of activities and tours to make your stay even more memorable:

  • Boat tours on the St-Maurice River
  • Canoe and kayak rentals
  • Fishing expeditions
  • Snowmobiling in the winter

Week-Long Itinerary for Shawinigan

To fully experience Shawinigan and the surrounding area, we recommend the following itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day Activity
1 Explore La Cité de l’énergie and the historic district of Shawinigan-Sud
2 Hike Le Rocher de Grand-Mère and visit the Musée de la Femme
3 Spend the day in Parc national de la Mauricie
4 Take a boat tour on the St-Maurice River and visit the Domaine seigneurial Sainte-Anne
5 Explore Vallée-du-Parc and enjoy a mountain bike tour
6 Enjoy a day in Parc de l’île Melville and take a swim in the lake
7 Take a trip to nearby Trois-Rivières for more shopping and dining options

Food and Drink Scene of Shawinigan

Shawinigan boasts a diverse food and drink scene that showcases the best of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to add to your list:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: A Quebec classic featuring French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. Try it at Aucoin de Larue.
  • Tourtière: A savory meat pie that is a staple of French-Canadian cuisine. Try it at Boulangerie La Mie Lotoise.
  • Tarte au sucre: A traditional sugar pie that is a popular dessert in Quebec. Try it at Les Secrets du Midwest.

Local Beverages

  • Shawinigan Handshake: A potent cocktail made with whisky, cream, and maple syrup in honor of former Prime Minister Jean Chretien’s response to the 1996 Shawinigan golf course protest. Try it at Bar Le National.
  • Microbrews: La Pécheresse, La Vannière, and La Cachée du Mineur are some of the local breweries offering unique and flavorful options.
  • Local Wines: The surrounding area is home to a number of vineyards that produce delicious wines with a distinctive local flavor.

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

Shawinigan has a variety of accommodations to fit every need and budget:

  • Auberge Gouverneur Shawinigan: A modern, full-service hotel with deluxe amenities.
  • Auberge Escapade Inn: A quaint and cozy inn with all the charm of a bed and breakfast.
  • Auberge Comfort Inn & Suites Shawinigan: A budget-friendly option with comfortable suites and a convenient location.

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

Here are some unique products to bring home and remember your time in Shawinigan:

  • Maple Syrup: Quebec is famous for its maple syrup, and Shawinigan is no exception. Pick up a bottle or two at any local grocery store.
  • Shawinigan Handshake Merchandise: Celebrate this iconic cocktail with a T-shirt or shot glass from Bar Le National.
  • Local Artwork and Crafts: Explore the charming boutiques and galleries in town for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Shawinigan

As with any destination, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. In Shawinigan, you may notice that many signs and menus are in French, as it is the primary language spoken in the region. However, most locals also speak English, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance if needed.

Best Time to Visit Shawinigan

Shawinigan offers something for every season, but the best time to visit depends on your interests:

  • Summer: June to August is ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
  • Fall: Mid-September to October is the best time for fall foliage viewing and harvest season.
  • Winter: From December to March, Shawinigan is a winter wonderland with skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.
  • Spring: From late March to May, the snow melts, and the flowers bloom, making it the perfect time for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shawinigan

To ensure a pleasant and respectful trip, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local language and customs.
  • Leave no trace when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly or disrespectfully in public.
  • Litter or damage natural areas.

Safety and Health

Shawinigan is generally a safe destination, but it is always wise to take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your trip:

Safety in Shawinigan

  • Avoid walking alone late at night.
  • Keep valuables hidden and secure.
  • Always lock your vehicle doors when parked.

Health in Shawinigan

  • Bring any necessary medications with you.
  • Stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
  • Use sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against sunburn and bug bites.

Getting to Shawinigan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shawinigan is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane:

Airports Near Shawinigan

  • Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) is the closest major airport, located about 1.5 hours away.
  • Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is a larger airport located about 2.5 hours away.

Bus Stations Near Shawinigan

  • The Shawinigan bus station is served by several bus lines, including Orléans Express and Intercar.

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available at the airports and in Shawinigan.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

How to Get Around in Shawinigan

While a car is the most convenient option, there are other transportation options available:

  • Taxi services are available in the area.
  • Bike rentals are available for exploring the city and nearby trails.

Where to Go Next from Shawinigan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Shawinigan is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Trois-Rivières: A historic city located about 30 minutes southwest of Shawinigan.
  • Parc national du Canada de la Mauricie: An expansive national park located to the east of Shawinigan.
  • Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc: A picturesque village located just a short drive from Shawinigan.

Conclusion

Shawinigan is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, culture buffs, and foodies alike. With stunning natural surroundings and a rich cultural heritage, this hidden gem in central Quebec is waiting to be discovered. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect Shawinigan adventure today!

The The "Trou du Diable" falls View of the Promenade du Saint-Maurice, in the lower town of Shawinigan, along the Saint-Maurice River View of the Promenade du Saint-Maurice, in the lower town of Shawinigan, along the Saint-Maurice River The Pines Island (Île aux pins) in Lake Wapizagonke, Parc national de la Mauricie The Pines Island (Île aux pins) in Lake Wapizagonke, Parc national de la Mauricie


    La Mauricie National Park