Rivière-aux-Outardes Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to eat, and local culture of Rivière-aux-Outardes. This guide covers everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip.


Introduction to Rivière-aux-Outardes

Nestled in the heart of Quebec, Rivière-aux-Outardes is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The town is located on the North Shore of the St. Lawrence River, just a short drive away from the popular destinations of Quebec City and Montreal. With its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and welcoming locals, Rivière-aux-Outardes is the perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Canadian experience.

List of Places to Visit in Rivière-aux-Outardes

When exploring Rivière-aux-Outardes, visitors have a wide range of places to explore, including culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking trails, and more.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the highlights of the town is the Musee de la Petite Anglicane, a historical museum that offers a glimpse into the town’s past. Visitors can also explore the Sanctuaire de Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pointe-au-Père, a beautiful shrine and religious site with stunning architectural details. The Chute-aux-Outardes Hydroelectric Power Plant is also worth a visit.

Natural Attractions of Rivière-aux-Outardes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The town is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, and visitors can explore many of the area’s natural attractions. The Parc National de la Gaspésie is a must-see destination known for its rugged landscape and incredible wildlife. The stunning forest, hiking trails, and scenic views will leave nature lovers speechless. The Baie de Sept-Iles is a beautiful coastal area with endless natural wonders, including sandy beaches, clear water, and untouched wilderness.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rivière-aux-Outardes

Rivière-aux-Outardes is an excellent destination for those who love outdoor activities. The area boasts numerous well-marked hiking and biking trails for visitors of all ages and skill levels. The Sentiers des Marais, the trail in Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook, and the Montagne du Diable are the most popular hiking and biking trails in the area.

Best Things to Do in Rivière-aux-Outardes: Activities and Tours

There’s a lot to do in Rivière-aux-Outardes, regardless of your age or interest. Cultural tours, water activities, snowmobiling and ATV tours, as well as rock climbing and zip-lining, are just a few of the activities on offer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rivière-aux-Outardes

Here’s our recommended itinerary for a week-long stay in Rivière-aux-Outardes:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Musee de la Petite Anglicane
2 Hike or bike the Sentiers des Marais trail
3 Visit the Chute-aux-Outardes Hydroelectric Power Plant
4 Tour the area’s best cultural attractions
5 Go kayaking or canoeing in the Baie de Sept-Iles
6 Enjoy a guided ATV or snowmobile tour
7 Relax and enjoy the town’s local cuisine and culture

Food and Drink Scene of Rivière-aux-Outardes

Rivière-aux-Outardes’s food scene centers on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. From the traditional poutine to the local microbreweries, there are plenty of great dining options to try.

Must-Try Dishes

When visiting Rivière-aux-Outardes, be sure to try traditional dishes such as tourtière, a savory pie filled with pork, beef, or game, as well as pea soup, creton, and poutine. The wood-fired oven-baked sourdough bread is also a must-try.

Local Beverages

The locals of Rivière-aux-Outardes take their beer and wine seriously, and there are plenty of fantastic locally-produced options to try. The microbreweries in the Baie-Comeau area are famous for their beer, cider, and innovative alcoholic beverages.

Where to Stay in Rivière-aux-Outardes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several lodging options in Rivière-aux-Outardes, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.

What to Buy in Rivière-aux-Outardes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Rivière-aux-Outardes, take home some local souvenirs such as hand-knitted woolens and local cheeses.

Local Culture and Customs of Rivière-aux-Outardes

Rivière-aux-Outardes is a friendly, hospitable community steeped in tradition. Visitors will find the locals welcoming and proud to share their culture and customs with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Rivière-aux-Outardes

Rivière-aux-Outardes is a year-round destination, but its different seasons offer different experiences. Summer is popular for outdoor activities, festivals, and warm weather. In autumn, visitors can enjoy the stunning fall foliage, while in winter, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy winter sports such as snowmobiling, skiing, and ice fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rivière-aux-Outardes

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take time to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Visit the area’s many natural attractions and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Disregard local rules and regulations, especially when it comes to wildlife and outdoor activities.
  • Leave your trash behind on trails and other outdoor locations.
  • Disrespect the local way of life.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rivière-aux-Outardes

Rivière-aux-Outardes is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should exercise normal precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on their belongings.

Health in Rivière-aux-Outardes

Rivière-aux-Outardes has high-quality healthcare providers and medical facilities for those who require medical assistance during their visit.

Getting to Rivière-aux-Outardes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rivière-aux-Outardes is easily accessible by land, sea, and air. Many visitors choose to fly into Quebec City and then drive or take public transportation to the town.

Airports Near Rivière-aux-Outardes

The nearest airport is in Baie-Comeau, which is approximately an hour’s drive from Rivière-aux-Outardes.

Bus Stations Near Rivière-aux-Outardes

Visitors can take a bus from Quebec City to Baie-Comeau, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to get to Rivière-aux-Outardes.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Rivière-aux-Outardes or take a ferry from Rimouski or Matane.

How to Get Around in Rivière-aux-Outardes

Rivière-aux-Outardes is a small town, and most of the area’s attractions are within walking distance or a short drive away. Rental cars, taxis, and public transportation are also available.

Where to Go Next from Rivière-aux-Outardes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors who have explored all that Rivière-aux-Outardes has to offer can explore nearby destinations such as Quebec City, Montreal, or the beautiful Gaspe Peninsula.

Conclusion

Rivière-aux-Outardes is a beautiful destination with plenty of natural and cultural attractions to explore. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, there’s something for everyone in this charming Canadian town. Plan your visit today to experience the best of Quebec.

Daniel-Johnson Dam (Manic-5) Daniel-Johnson Dam (Manic-5) Photo of Route 389 (linking Baie-Comeau and Labrador City) taken 23 km northeast of Manic-5, on the east side of the Manicouagan River Photo of Route 389 (linking Baie-Comeau and Labrador City) taken 23 km northeast of Manic-5, on the east side of the Manicouagan River