Bas-Saint-Laurent Travel Guide

Get to know all the attractions of Bas-Saint-Laurent, Quebec including things to do, where to stay, local culture, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Bas-Saint-Laurent

Located in southeastern Quebec, Bas-Saint-Laurent is a stunning destination that boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. This region is home to charming towns and cities, world-class museums, scenic hiking trails, and delectable local cuisine. Tourists will be amazed by the friendliness of local residents and each town’s hidden secrets waiting to be discovered.

List of Places to Visit in Bas-Saint-Laurent

There is no shortage of places to visit in Bas-Saint-Laurent. From historical sites to natural wonders, this region has something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bas-Saint-Laurent has a rich history and is home to a plethora of museums and historical sites that showcase the region’s culture. A visit to the following places is a must:

  • Musée du Bas-Saint-Laurent
  • Reford Gardens
  • Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père
  • Maison Antoine Vachon

Natural Attractions of Bas-Saint-Laurent: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Bas-Saint-Laurent region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of natural attractions to explore.

  • Parc national du Bic
  • Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer
  • Île aux Lièvres
  • Parc régional du Lac Témiscouata

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bas-Saint-Laurent

Bas-Saint-Laurent is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with its rugged landscape and beautiful scenery.

  • Sentier des Caps: This challenging 140-kilometer route is perfect for experienced hikers with its steep climb and stunning wilderness views.
  • Les Monts Notre-Dame: This 135-kilometer route follows the mountains across the border of Quebec and New Brunswick.
  • Petit Témis: This 134-kilometer converted rail trail follows the Témiscouata Lake and is perfect for a scenic bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Bas-Saint-Laurent: Activities and Tours

For those who want to experience the best the region has to offer, try out these activities and tours

  • Saint-Pascal Golf Club: Tee off with a view at this amazing golf course where visitors have views of the St.Laurent river
  • Whale Watching Tour: Go on a whale watching tour to get up close and personal with the ocean giants.
  • Quad Tour: For adventure seekers, rent a quad and explore the rugged terrain of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bas-Saint-Laurent

Here is a week-long itinerary to help tourists make the most of their visit to Bas-Saint-Laurent:

Day 1: Arrive in Rimouski, Tour Musée du Bas-Saint-Laurent Day 2: Visit the Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père, go whale watching Day 3: Take a road trip to Parc national du Bic Day 4: Go shopping at Les Jardins de Doris Day 5: Go kayaking at Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer Day 6: Visit the Reford Gardens Day 7: Relax at Parc régional du Lac Témiscouata to end the vacation

Food and Drink Scene of Bas-Saint-Laurent

The culinary experience in Bas-Saint-Laurent is unforgettable, with a combination of traditional cuisine and local flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood platters: Bas-Saint-Laurent has some of the freshest and most delicious seafood.
  • Poutine: one of Quebec’s most signature dishes, it is a mix of fries, cheese curds and gravy.
  • “Fipalle”: a meat pie made of local meat such as deer, moose or caribou with a flaky crust.

Local Beverages

  • Lactose-tolerant milk: this milk from the Ferme Symphonie farm is perfect for those who cannot tolerate lactose.
  • La Tête d’Allait: this amber beer from the Microbrasserie la Tête d’Allait has hints of caramel and grain.
  • Blueberry wine: this fruity and full-bodied wine is perfect for those who enjoy sweet wines.

Where to Stay in Bas-Saint-Laurent: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bas-Saint-Laurent offers a wide range of accommodations suitable for all budgets and preferences. Some recommended options include:

  • Hôtel Rimouski
  • Hôtel Universel Rivière-du-Loup
  • Auberge Saint-Paul

What to Buy in Bas-Saint-Laurent: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tourists can buy the following souvenirs as a reminder of their trip to Bas-Saint-Laurent:

  • Blueberry products: there are plenty of farm shops that sell jams, muffins, and pies made from fresh blueberries.
  • Maple products: Quebec is famous for its maple syrup, and visitors can buy a range of products like maple butter and candy.
  • Local crafts: Visit Les Jours Heureux market for local crafts such as pottery, jewelry, and artworks made by regional artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Bas-Saint-Laurent

Bas-Saint-Laurent is rich in cultural traditions, with residents proud of their unique heritage. Tourists are advised to respect the following customs:

  • Greet locals with a friendly smile or a “Bonjour”.
  • Visitors can appreciate the region’s distinct culture at various festivals and events throughout the year.
  • Always try to speak French when initiating a conversation, even if it’s just a few basic phrases.

Best Time to Visit Bas-Saint-Laurent

The best time to visit Bas-Saint-Laurent is in the summer months (June to August), when many outdoor activities are open, and the weather is warm and sunny.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bas-Saint-Laurent

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and the French language.
  • Try the Local cuisine such as poutine, smoked meat, and blueberry pie.
  • Take advantage of the breathtaking landscapes and natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage local natural sites.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t forget to learn basic French.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bas-Saint-Laurent

Bas-Saint-Laurent is a very safe area, but we recommend the following to ensure a safer stay:

  • Be aware when swimming, currents in the St. Lawrence can be strong.
  • Don’t leave belongings unattended in public places.

Health in Bas-Saint-Laurent

Healthcare is readily available in Bas-Saint-Laurent, and it is advisable to carry a comprehensive health insurance plan.

Getting to Bas-Saint-Laurent: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tourists can get to Bas-Saint-Laurent through a variety of options. Those arriving from Montreal can choose from the following options:

Airports Near Bas-Saint-Laurent

  • Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB)
  • Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM)

Bus Stations Near Bas-Saint-Laurent

  • Orléans Express and Intercar coach services provide bus services from Montreal to various towns in Bas-Saint-Laurent.

Other Options

  • Ride-hailing services such as Uber operate within the region, although taxis can be more expensive.

How to Get Around in Bas-Saint-Laurent

The best way to get around in Bas-Saint-Laurent is by car, but tourists can also navigate through local bus services. Taxis and bicycles are also available in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Bas-Saint-Laurent: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tourists can also visit the following nearby destinations:

  • Gaspé Peninsula: Located on the eastern shore of Quebec, Gaspé Peninsula is known for its amazing coastline.
  • Quebec City: Those looking to experience the cozy architecture that picture North America’s european settlement can head to Quebec City.
  • Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean: This region boasts the stunning Fjord of Saguenay and diverse park trails.

Conclusion

As one can see, Bas-Saint-Laurent is the perfect destination for holidaymakers looking for rich culture, outdoor activities, and exquisite food. With an endless opportunity for exploring and learning about the culture of regional life, tourists will undoubtedly create unforgettable memories.

L'Anse à L'Orignal at Parc national du Bic L'Anse à L'Orignal at Parc national du Bic Winter view of Saint-Louis-du-Ha! Ha! Winter view of Saint-Louis-du-Ha! Ha!


    Trois-Pistoles