Route Blanche Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Route Blanche with this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from cultural attractions and outdoor adventures to food and drink scene and transportation options.


Introduction to Route Blanche

Route Blanche is a scenic road that runs along the North Shore of the St. Lawrence River in Quebec, Canada. Known for its stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains, Route Blanche is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers looking to experience the beauty of Canada’s natural landscape.

List of Places to Visit in Route Blanche

Whether you’re looking for cultural attractions or outdoor adventures, Route Blanche has something to offer. Here are some of the must-visit places on this scenic road trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Manoir Fraser: A historic mansion built in the early 19th century that now serves as a museum and cultural center.
  • Musee Regional de la Cote-Nord: This museum showcases the history and culture of the North Shore region of Quebec.
  • Site Historique Maritime de la Pointe-au-Pere: This historic site features a museum, lighthouse, and shipwreck exhibit.

Natural Attractions of Route Blanche: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc national du Bic: This national park is known for its stunning vistas of the St. Lawrence River, as well as its hiking and biking trails.
  • Tadoussac: This charming village is known for its whale-watching tours and stunning natural scenery.
  • Saguenay Fjord National Park: This park features a 100 km long fjord that is home to several species of marine mammals and a popular spot for kayaking and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Route Blanche

If you’re looking to explore the outdoors on foot or bike, Route Blanche has plenty of options. Some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area include:

  • Sentier Les Caps: A 22 km hiking trail that runs along the Cap-Chat River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Parc national du Bic: This national park has over 25 km of hiking trails that offer scenic views of the St. Lawrence River and surrounding landscape.
  • Piste cyclable du littoral: A 256 km bike path that runs along the St. Lawrence River and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Route Blanche: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for unique and exciting activities to do in Route Blanche, here are some ideas:

  • Whale-watching tours: Take a guided boat tour and spot humpback and beluga whales.
  • Zip-lining: Soar over the treetops and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Fishing: Cast your line and try your luck at catching salmon or trout in the rivers and lakes of Route Blanche.

Week-Long Itinerary for Route Blanche

If you’re planning on spending a week in Route Blanche, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Quebec City and start your drive to Route Blanche
2 Explore Tadoussac and take a whale-watching tour
3 Visit the Site Historique Maritime de la Pointe-au-Pere and hike in Parc national du Bic
4 Spend the day fishing or biking in the Saguenay Fjord National Park
5 Zip-line through the trees of a local adventure park
6 Visit Manoir Fraser and Musee Regional de la Cote-Nord
7 Depart from Route Blanche and drive back to Quebec City

Food and Drink Scene of Route Blanche

Quebec is known for its delicious cuisine, and Route Blanche is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: A classic Quebecois dish made with french fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  • Tourtiere: A savory meat pie that is a staple of Quebec cuisine.
  • Sugar pie: This dessert is made with maple syrup and has a sweet, gooey texture.

Local Beverages

  • Ice cider: This sweet, dessert-like cider is made with apples that have been frozen on the tree.
  • Caribou: A warm alcoholic drink made with red wine, whiskey, and maple syrup.
  • Craft beer: Route Blanche is home to several local breweries that offer a variety of craft beers.

Where to Stay in Route Blanche: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Route Blanche has plenty of options for places to stay. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hôtel Tadoussac: This iconic hotel is located in the heart of Tadoussac and offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
  • Auberge Saint-Antoine: This boutique hotel in Quebec City offers luxurious rooms and a prime location in the heart of the city.
  • Auberge Beausejour: This charming inn is located in the village of Saint-Simeon and offers cozy rooms and a cozy atmosphere.

What to Buy in Route Blanche: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home a piece of Route Blanche, here are some souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Maple syrup: Quebec is known for its delicious maple syrup, so be sure to pick up a bottle to take home.
  • Artisanal crafts: Route Blanche is home to several artisans who create unique handcrafted items, such as pottery and jewelry.
  • Local wine and beer: Route Blanche is home to several local wineries and breweries, so be sure to pick up a bottle or two to enjoy at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Route Blanche

Quebec has a rich history and unique culture that is well worth exploring during your visit to Route Blanche. Here are some customs and cultural practices to be aware of:

  • Language: French is the primary language spoken in Quebec.
  • Dress: The culture in Quebec tends to be more formal than in other parts of North America, and visitors may want to dress accordingly.
  • Festivals: Quebec is known for its festivals, and there are several throughout the year that offer a chance to experience local culture and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Route Blanche

The best time to visit Route Blanche is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the fall is also a popular time to visit, as the leaves change colors and create stunning landscapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Route Blanche

To make the most of your visit to Route Blanche, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities and natural attractions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Be disrespectful to the local culture and customs.
  • Litter or damage the natural landscape.

Safety and Health

While Route Blanche is generally a safe destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of potential health risks during your visit.

Safety in Route Blanche

  • Be aware of your surroundings when participating in outdoor activities, and follow all safety guidelines.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and in a secure location.
  • Use caution when driving on the winding roads of Route Blanche.

Health in Route Blanche

  • Insect bites and ticks can be a concern during the summer months, so be sure to use insect repellent and check for ticks after spending time outdoors.
  • Be aware of the risks of sunburn and heat exhaustion during the summer months.

Getting to Route Blanche: Transportation Options and Logistics

Route Blanche is located in the North Shore region of Quebec, and is accessible by car or bus from Quebec City.

Airports Near Route Blanche

  • Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB)

Bus Stations Near Route Blanche

  • Gare de La Malbaie: This train station is located in La Malbaie, which is a town on Route Blanche.

Other Options

  • Rental car: Renting a car is a great option for those who want to explore Route Blanche at their own pace.
  • Private shuttle: Private shuttles are available for those who want to avoid the hassle of driving themselves.

How to Get Around in Route Blanche

The best way to get around Route Blanche is by car. However, for those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, there are several hiking and biking trails in the area.

Where to Go Next from Route Blanche: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Quebec after your visit to Route Blanche, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Quebec City: This historic city has a rich history and culture, and is home to several must-visit attractions, such as the Chateau Frontenac and the Plains of Abraham.
  • Charlevoix: This picturesque region is known for its stunning natural beauty, charming villages, and delicious cuisine.
  • Montreal: This vibrant city is a cultural hub of Canada, and offers a variety of attractions, such as the Montreal Botanical Garden and the Old Port of Montreal.

Conclusion

Route Blanche is a stunning scenic road that offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to Quebec. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, indulge in local cuisine, or immerse yourself in Quebec’s unique culture, Route Blanche has something to offer.