Les Escoumins Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Les Escoumins with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking routes, delicious local cuisine, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Les Escoumins

Located in the Manicouagan region of Quebec, Canada, Les Escoumins is a charming coastal town that boasts beautiful beaches, scenic vistas, and a thriving marine ecosystem. The town is popular among outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and nature lovers due to its various outdoor activities and natural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Les Escoumins

Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or with friends, Les Escoumins offers a wide range of attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-visit places in Les Escoumins:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Les Escoumins lighthouse
  • Bergeronnes church
  • Cap-de-Bon-Desir Interpretation and Observation Centre
  • Archéo-Topo Museum

Natural Attractions of Les Escoumins: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Les Escoumins Beach
  • Parc Naturel du Fjord-du-Saguenay
  • Marine mammal observation cruises
  • Whale-watching tours
  • Kayaking or canoeing on the Escoumins River

Hiking/Biking Routes of Les Escoumins

The Escoumins region boasts an extensive range of hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the town and its surroundings. Here are a few notable routes you might consider checking out:

  • Pointe-des-Monts Lighthouse Trail
  • Parc Naturel du Fjord-du-Saguenay Trail
  • Ruisseau Clair Trail
  • Sentier des Caps
  • Sentier de la Pointe-aux-Outardes

Best Things to Do in Les Escoumins: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the top things to do while in Les Escoumins:

  • Visit the Cap-de-Bon-Desir Interpretation and Observation Centre to see whales, seals, and other marine mammals up close.
  • Take a scenic boat tour of the Saguenay Fjord.
  • Explore the marine ecosystem while kayaking or canoeing on the Escoumins River.
  • Join a fishing excursion to catch salmon or trout.
  • Hike or bike on one of the many scenic trails in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Les Escoumins

Day 1 - Arrive in Les Escoumins and relax at the beach. Day 2 - Head to the Cap-de-Bon-Desir Interpretation and Observation Center for a whale-watching tour. Day 3 - Visit Parc Naturel du Fjord-du-Saguenay for a nature hike or bike ride. Day 4 - Take a day trip to Tadoussac for more whale-watching possibilities or visit the Ruisseau Clair trail. Day 5 - Experience kayaking or canoeing on the Escoumins River. Day 6 - Join a fishing excursion to catch salmon or trout. Day 7 - Explore local cultural attractions such as the Les Escoumins Lighthouse or Archéo-Topo Museum before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Les Escoumins

Les Escoumins is known for its delicious local cuisine. The town has many restaurants that serve fresh seafood, traditional Quebecois cuisine, and other international dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine
  • Tourtière
  • Sugar pie
  • Smoked salmon

Local Beverages

  • Unibroue beer
  • Ice cider
  • Maple syrup cocktails

Where to Stay in Les Escoumins: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Les Escoumins offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some top accommodations in the area:

  • Les Chalets de la Mer: This is a great option for families or groups of friends, as it offers private chalets with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
  • Hotel Motel Bon Accueil: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and is located close to the town’s major attractions.
  • Gîte du Goéland: This charming bed and breakfast is perfect for couples looking for a quiet and romantic escape.

What to Buy in Les Escoumins: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are many unique local products that you can bring back home from Les Escoumins, such as:

  • Maple syrup
  • Caribou antlers and hides
  • Handmade woolen clothing
  • Handcrafted jewelry made from local stones

Local Culture and Customs of Les Escoumins

Les Escoumins has a unique culture, with its residents practicing a mixture of French and Indigenous traditions. Many festivals and events are held throughout the year, such as the Les Escoumins Winter Carnival and the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day celebration.

Best Time to Visit Les Escoumins

The best time to visit Les Escoumins is during the summer months (June to September), where the weather is at its warmest and sunniest. However, the town is open year-round, so visitors can experience the beauty of the area in all seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Les Escoumins

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take precautions for outdoor activities.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Learn some basic French phrases.

Don’t:

  • Litter in natural areas.
  • Feed wild animals or approach them too closely.
  • Damage local artifacts or historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Les Escoumins

Les Escoumins is considered a safe place for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still take standard safety precautions, such as locking their vehicles and securing valuables.

Health in Les Escoumins

Les Escoumins has a well-equipped hospital and clinic that offers emergency medical care. Still, visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance in case of an emergency.

Getting to Les Escoumins: Transportation Options and Logistics

Les Escoumins is easily accessible from various locations in Quebec. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Les Escoumins

  • Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport
  • Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport

Bus Stations Near Les Escoumins

  • Intercar operates buses to Les Escoumins from major cities in Quebec, like Quebec City and Montreal.

Other Options

  • Visitors may opt to drive to Les Escoumins, as the town is accessible via Quebec’s main highway system.

How to Get Around in Les Escoumins

The town is relatively small, and several attractions are within walking distance. Still, visitors may opt to rent a bike or car to explore the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Les Escoumins: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tadoussac: A popular destination for whale watching, culture, and scenic views.
  • Parc National de la Gaspésie: A breathtaking national park with stunning landscapes.
  • Quebec City: The historic capital city of Quebec is known for its culture and architecture.

Conclusion

Les Escoumins offers visitors a unique mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. With marine life observing, scenic hiking and biking trails, and delicious local cuisine, Les Escoumins is the perfect destination for nature and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Plan your trip today and experience everything this charming coastal town has to offer.

View of the bay at low tide from the promenade along the shore View of the bay at low tide from the promenade along the shore ''L'Héritage I'' ''L'Héritage I'' Saint-Marcelin Les Escoumins Church Saint-Marcelin Les Escoumins Church Waterfall at the river park, southwest of the village Waterfall at the river park, southwest of the village