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Photo: Mathieu Dupuis
As the days get longer, the weather is getting warmer in Eastern Québec and the trees are beginning to bud. There is no doubt about it, summer is on its way! This past year has certainly been challenging for all of us and yet, despite the world situation, which remains uncertain, one thing is for sure: as the landscapes turn green, we are all starting to itch to travel. You may not be able to visit our regions in 2021, but there is nothing stopping you from dreaming about Québec by the Sea! To inspire you, here are 12 things to do and enjoy when you can next visit our regions.
To find out what is new in our regions in 2021, visit the News page in the Media section of our website, which is updated regularly.
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Photo: Mathieu Dupuis/Tourisme Bas-Saint-Laurent
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Admire Sunsets over the St. Lawrence
The sun setting over the St. Lawrence offers a different show every evening! The sky’s reds, oranges and pinks against the blue of the sea are a beautiful and soothing sight. It is not surprising that National Geographic has recognized the region of Bas-Saint-Laurent as one of the best places to see sunsets in the world!
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Photo: Mathieu Dupuis/Tourisme Îles de la Madeleine
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Chat with Fishers on the Islands
For an authentic experience, get up early and head to a wharf to watch the fishing boats set off at sunrise. Then come back later to watch them return and chat with the fishers to find out whether they had a good catch that day. At the same time, you can learn more about the species they are fishing, including the legendary Island lobster!
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Explore a Sea of Mountains
The Chic-Chocs in Gaspésie are home to the highest peaks in Québec. Parc national de la Gaspésie is located at the heart of these mountains, which include 25 peaks over 1000 metres (3300 feet) high. You have many hiking options, including the 650-km (400-mi.) International Appalachian Trail, which has been recognized as the first long-distance hiking route in North America (GR®A1).
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Meet the Innu in Côte-Nord
Your visit to this region is an opportunity to meet the Innu and discover their rich and vibrant culture. This First Nation, which has lived on these lands for thousands of years, offers visitors a unique and authentic experience. From Essipit to Pakua Shipi via Uashat, Mani-Utenam, Ekuanitshit (Mingan) and Nutashkuan (Natashquan), discover the roots of these friendly people.
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Drive to the End of Route 138
How exciting is it to reach the end of the road? After driving hundreds of kilometres all the way to Kegaska (40 km / 25 mi. east of Natashquan), stop and admire the famous “138 FIN” sign that marks the end of Route 138. While this is as far as you can drive, your push east doesn’t have to end here: why not hop on a boat and set off to explore the villages of the Lower North Shore all the way to Blanc-Sablon!
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Discover the Islands of Bas-Saint-Laurent
The islands of the St. Lawrence are home to a rich biodiversity and maritime heritage, making them unique places to visit and recharge your batteries. Listen to the sounds of nesting seabirds, visit the oldest lighthouse in Québec on Île Verte (Green Island), or spend the night in the Pot à l’Eau-de-Vie Lighthouse for a truly memorable island experience!
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Photo: Roger St-Laurent/Tourisme Gaspésie
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Tour the Gaspé Peninsula
Driving around the Gaspé Peninsula is an incredible experience you must enjoy at least once in your life! Follow Route 132 in a loop around the region and be amazed at every turn! Whichever direction you go (clockwise towards the north or counterclockwise towards the south), Gaspésie will wow you with spectacular sea and mountain scenery. Are you looking forward to this legendary road trip?
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Play in the Sea and Wind on the Islands
Sculpted by the wind and waves, the red cliffs of the Îles de la Madeleine are full of caves, arches and mysterious nooks and crannies. On days when it is not too windy, you can explore them from the beaches, on the water in a sea kayak or while swimming in a wetsuit with an experienced guide. You can also take advantage of the wind to try out stunt kite flying, kitesurfing or kite buggying!
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Photo: Mathieu Dupuis/Tourisme Bas-Saint-Laurent
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Hit the Road on 3 Epic Tourist Routes
Covering about 20,000 km2 (8000 sq. ft), Bas-Saint-Laurent offers three tourist routes to explore. The Navigators’ Route borders the St. Lawrence for 200 km (125 mi.) and offers many historical, cultural and maritime treasures to discover. The Border Route runs along the border with New Brunswick and the U.S. for 109 km (68 mi.) and introduces you to the realities of border life. Finally, the 186-km (116-mi.) Route des Monts Notre-Dame
meanders through mountains formed 200 million years ago!
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Be Amazed by the Whales
Observe up to 13 species of cetaceans as well as several other species of marine mammals all along the Whale Route in Côte-Nord. Along the way, be sure to visit the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, which is one of the best places in the world to admire the whales, both from the shore and out at sea during an excursion in a sightseeing boat or Zodiac. You will be amazed by the breathtaking acrobatic moves of these majestic giants of the sea!
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Photo: Roger St-Laurent/Tourisme Gaspésie
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Savour the King of Shellfish
Recognized throughout the world, the lobster of Gaspésie is highly prized for its rich and flavourful meat. This crustacean’s hard shell protects it from the cold waters and rocky bottom of the St. Lawrence, making its white flesh tender and abundant. Come and enjoy fresh lobster in season from May to July!
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Photo: L'île imaginair'/Tourisme Îles de la Madeleine
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Discover an Island Acadian Culture
Surrounded by the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Islanders are a people of the sea! Traces of their Acadian heritage can be found throughout the Îles de la Madeleine, in the local architecture as well as in the Islanders’ fishing practices, musical styles and traditions. You may also notice a charming musical lilt to their accent!
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3 Inspiring Videos
Photo: Sébastien St-Jean/Tourisme Côte-Nord
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Read These Posts on Our Blog
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Suzie Loiselle
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Étienne Fiola
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Bas-Saint-Laurent
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