Tadoussac Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Tadoussac, Quebec, Canada with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Tadoussac

Tadoussac is a charming village in the Manicouagan region of Quebec, Canada, located at the confluence of the Saguenay and Saint Lawrence rivers. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore scenic trails, admire the stunning wildlife, or go whale watching. The village also boasts historical sites, including a 17th-century trading post and a museum dedicated to the region’s indigenous cultures. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Tadoussac.

List of Places to Visit in Tadoussac

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chauvin Trading Post National Historic Site: This is the oldest trading post in Canada, dating back to 1600. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the fur trade and the role of Tadoussac in the early days of Canada’s colonial period.
  • Maison de Marguerite: This charming house-turned-museum used to belong to the first European woman to settle in Canada. It offers a glimpse into the daily life of a 17th-century settler.
  • Innu Cultiural Centre: This museum showcases the culture, traditions, and art of the Innu people, the original inhabitants of the region.

Natural Attractions of Tadoussac: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tadoussac Bay: The bay is a popular spot for whale-watching tours. You can also take a scenic boat ride to explore the rugged coastline and see the iconic red-roofed Chapel of Tadoussac.
  • Saguenay Fjord National Park: This park is a natural wonder, featuring dramatic cliffs, deep forests, and fjords. It’s a great place for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
  • Parc National des Monts-Valin: This park is a winter wonderland, popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. It’s also home to the famous Valinouët ski resort.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tadoussac

  • Sentier de la Pointe-de-l’Islet: This is a scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and Tadoussac Bay. It’s an easy hike suitable for families.
  • Sentier de la Presqu’ile: This trail explores the beautiful Tadoussac Peninsula and features stunning views of the Saguenay Fjord.
  • Velo Route: This bike trail runs along the scenic Route 138, linking Tadoussac to Quebec City and showcasing the region’s beauty.

Best Things to Do in Tadoussac: Activities and Tours

  • Whale-watching tours: Tadoussac is known for its rich marine life, especially whales, which can be seen swimming in the Saguenay River and the St. Lawrence River.
  • Kayaking tours: Paddle among the whales and get up close and personal with the marine wildlife.
  • Sailing tours: Enjoy the stunning scenery of Tadoussac and its surroundings on a sailing tour.
  • Eco-tours: Explore the natural wonders of Tadoussac with an experienced guide, who will show you the best hiking and kayaking trails and the most beautiful viewpoints.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tadoussac

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at a hotel or guesthouse. Day 2: Whale watching tour and visit to the Chauvin Trading Post National Historic Site. Day 3: Kayaking tour and hiking on the Sentier de la Pointe-de-l’Islet. Day 4: Sailing tour on the Saguenay Fjord. Day 5: Visit to the Maison de Marguerite and the Innu Cultural Centre. Day 6: Eco-tour of the Parc National des Monts-Valin. Day 7: Departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Tadoussac

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: Quebec’s famous dish, consisting of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  • Tourtiere: A savory meat pie served with ketchup or chutney.
  • Maple syrup dishes: Quebec is known for producing some of the best maple syrup in the world, and you can taste it in various forms, including maple sugar pie, maple glazed salmon, and maple butter.

Local Beverages

  • Ice cider: A sweet alcoholic beverage made from frozen apples, a specialty of Quebec’s cider country.
  • Beer: Quebec has a thriving craft beer scene, with many microbreweries producing unique and delicious beers.
  • Wine: Quebec also has a growing wine industry, with vineyards producing high-quality wines from locally grown grapes.

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

  • Hotel Tadoussac: This historic hotel is located on the St. Lawrence River and offers stunning views of the bay. It features a spa, a restaurant, and a heated outdoor pool.
  • Maison Gagne: This cozy bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Tadoussac and offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.
  • Auberge la Merveilleuse: This charming guesthouse is located in a renovated historic house and offers beautiful rooms and a cozy atmosphere.

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

  • Innu arts and crafts: The Innu Cultural Centre has a gift shop where you can buy locally made arts and crafts, such as birch bark baskets, leather goods, and beadwork.
  • Maple products: Bring home some of Quebec’s famous maple syrup and maple products, such as maple candy, maple butter, and maple wine.
  • Whale-related souvenirs: Tadoussac is known for its whale-watching tours, so you can find many souvenirs related to marine life, such as T-shirts, mugs, and keychains.

Local Culture and Customs of Tadoussac

Tadoussac has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of indigenous and European traditions. The Innu people have inhabited the region for thousands of years and are still present today, with their language and culture preserved through museums and cultural centers. Local customs include celebrating the winter carnival and eating traditional foods, such as poutine and tourtière.

Best Time to Visit Tadoussac

The best time to visit Tadoussac depends on your interests. Summer (June-August) is a popular time for outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. Fall (September-November) is a beautiful season, with the colorful foliage and fewer tourists. Winter (December-February) is a great time for winter sports, such as skiing and snowshoeing, and to see the northern lights. Spring (March-May) is the time when the region wakes up after the cold winter and begins to bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tadoussac

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather, which can be unpredictable.
  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife or the natural environment.
  • Leave trash in the natural areas.
  • Ignore the safety rules for outdoor activities.
  • Be loud and disrespectful to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tadoussac

Tadoussac is generally a safe place, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, lock your doors, and avoid walking alone at night. When hiking in the parks, always follow the safety rules and stay on the designated trails.

Health in Tadoussac

Tadoussac has a small hospital and a few clinics, but for serious medical emergencies, you may need to be transported to a larger hospital. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. If you’re hiking or kayaking, bring a first-aid kit and any necessary medication.

Getting to Tadoussac: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tadoussac

The nearest airports are Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) and Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL), both of which are around four hours by car from Tadoussac.

Bus Stations Near Tadoussac

There are no bus stations in Tadoussac. The closest bus stations are in Saguenay and Baie-Comeau, both of which are approximately two hours away by car.

Other Options

The easiest way to get to Tadoussac is by car. You can rent a car at the airports or in Quebec City. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle or taxi from the airports or bus stations.

How to Get Around in Tadoussac

The best way to get around Tadoussac is on foot or by bike. The village is small, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. If you want to explore the national parks or surrounding areas, you can rent a car or take a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Tadoussac: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Saguenay: This city is a cultural and historical hub, featuring museums, theaters, and festivals. It’s also a gateway to the Saguenay Fjord.
  • Charlevoix: This region is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and charming villages. It’s a great place for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
  • Quebec City: This historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring beautiful architecture, museums, and restaurants. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Quebec.

Conclusion

Tadoussac is a beautiful and unique destination in Quebec, with something to offer for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, Tadoussac has it all. Plan your trip now and discover the magic of this hidden gem in Canada.

The Saguenay Fjord between Baie-Sainte-Catherine and Tadoussac The Saguenay Fjord between Baie-Sainte-Catherine and Tadoussac Maison du tourisme de Tadoussac (Tadoussac Tourist Office) Maison du tourisme de Tadoussac (Tadoussac Tourist Office) Tadoussac Beach Tadoussac Beach A pretty house and church A pretty house and church