Rivière-au-Tonnerre Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Rivière-au-Tonnerre, Quebec, Canada, from natural attractions to cultural landmarks and more. Plan your trip with our insider tips and recommendations.


Introduction to Rivière-au-Tonnerre

Rivière-au-Tonnerre is a small municipality located in the North Shore region of Quebec, Canada. The town is known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and rich cultural heritage. With a population of just over 400 people, Rivière-au-Tonnerre offers a serene and peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. This travel guide will provide you with insider tips and recommendations to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Rivière-au-Tonnerre.

List of Places to Visit in Rivière-au-Tonnerre

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in history and culture, Rivière-au-Tonnerre has several attractions to offer. The following are some must-visit museums and historical places in the area:

  • Rivière-au-Tonnerre Lighthouse
  • Réserve Faunique de Port-Cartier-Sept-Îles
  • Église St-Paul de la Croix

Natural Attractions of Rivière-au-Tonnerre: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Rivière-au-Tonnerre is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some must-visit natural attractions in the area:

  • Cap de Bon-Désir
  • Parc National d’Anticosti
  • Tadoussac Bay

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rivière-au-Tonnerre

Rivière-au-Tonnerre is the perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The town has several trails and routes that offer incredible views of the surrounding scenery. Here are some of the popular hiking/biking trails in the area:

  • Sentier des Caps
  • Sentier de la Pointe-de-l’Islet
  • Sentier Joseph-Armand Bombardier

Best Things to Do in Rivière-au-Tonnerre: Activities and Tours

Rivière-au-Tonnerre offers a range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Whale Watching Tour
  • Kayak Tour
  • Wildlife Safari Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Rivière-au-Tonnerre

If you are planning a week-long trip to Rivière-au-Tonnerre, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Rivière-au-Tonnerre and check-in at your accommodation.

Day 2: Explore the town and visit the Rivière-au-Tonnerre Lighthouse.

Day 3: Take a whale watching tour in the Tadoussac Bay.

Day 4: Hike the Sentier des Caps trail.

Day 5: Visit the Réserve Faunique de Port-Cartier-Sept-Îles.

Day 6: Take a wildlife safari tour.

Day 7: Departure from Rivière-au-Tonnerre.

Food and Drink Scene of Rivière-au-Tonnerre

Rivière-au-Tonnerre offers a unique culinary experience, with dishes that incorporate the local ingredients and flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tourtière: A meat pie that is a staple of Quebec cuisine.
  • Poutine: French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy - a Canadian classic.
  • Sagamité: A traditional Native American dish made with cornmeal and berries.

Local Beverages

  • Ice Cider: A sweet dessert wine made from frozen apples.
  • Caribou: A warming alcoholic beverage made with red wine, whiskey, and maple syrup.

Where to Stay in Rivière-au-Tonnerre: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rivière-au-Tonnerre offers several accommodation options for every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Auberge de la Pointe: A hotel with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
  • Gîte aux Flots Bleus: A cozy guesthouse with a homey feel.
  • Le Manoir Baie-Comeau: A luxurious hotel with a spa and restaurant.

What to Buy in Rivière-au-Tonnerre: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking to bring back some souvenirs and local products, here are some things to consider:

  • Traditional Québécois handicrafts such as wood carvings and pottery.
  • Local food products such as maple syrup and smoked salmon.
  • Artisanal jewelry and clothing made by local designers.

Local Culture and Customs of Rivière-au-Tonnerre

Rivière-au-Tonnerre has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. Here are some customs and traditions you should be aware of:

  • French is the official language, but English is also widely spoken.
  • The town has a strong connection to its Native American roots and celebrates their culture and traditions.
  • The locals are proud of their heritage and are happy to share it with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Rivière-au-Tonnerre

The best time to visit Rivière-au-Tonnerre is between May and September when the weather is mild, and the town offers a range of outdoor activities. However, if you want to see the winter landscapes, you can plan your visit between December and February.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rivière-au-Tonnerre

Do:

  • Explore the natural landscapes and take part in outdoor activities.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash in natural areas.
  • Speak loudly in public places.
  • Disrespect the locals or their traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rivière-au-Tonnerre

Rivière-au-Tonnerre is generally a safe place to visit. However, visitors should still take precautionary measures to ensure their safety:

  • Keep your belongings secure at all times.
  • Be cautious when hiking or biking on trails.
  • Keep emergency numbers handy.

Health in Rivière-au-Tonnerre

The town has medical facilities that can provide emergency medical care if needed. However, it is always advisable to have travel insurance before embarking on your trip.

Getting to Rivière-au-Tonnerre: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rivière-au-Tonnerre

The nearest airport to Rivière-au-Tonnerre is Baie-Comeau Airport, which is approximately 50 kilometers away. Another option is Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport, which is 400 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Rivière-au-Tonnerre

The town is not accessible by bus, but the nearest bus station is in Baie-Comeau.

Other Options

Driving to Rivière-au-Tonnerre is the preferred mode of transportation, and there are several car rental options available. You can also take a train to Sept-Îles and then drive to Rivière-au-Tonnerre.

How to Get Around in Rivière-au-Tonnerre

The best way to get around Rivière-au-Tonnerre is by car. However, the town is small enough to explore on foot or by bike.

Where to Go Next from Rivière-au-Tonnerre: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can plan:

  • Parc Naturel Régional de la Pointe-aux-Outardes
  • Baie-Comeau
  • Port-Cartier

Conclusion

Rivière-au-Tonnerre is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks and delicious food, this town is the perfect destination for a peaceful and memorable getaway. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Rivière-au-Tonnerre.

Riviere au tonnerre.jpg Riviere au tonnerre.jpg The Saint-Hippolyte church in Rivière-au-Tonnerre is one of the only Norman-style churches in North America. The Saint-Hippolyte church in Rivière-au-Tonnerre is one of the only Norman-style churches in North America. Interior view of the church Interior view of the church