Charlevoix (Quebec): the practical guide

Stretching majestically between mountains and shores, the Charlevoix region unveils spectacular landscapes. One of the most beautiful destinations in Quebec, Charlevoix is as much about breathtaking panoramas as it is about refined gastronomy and a rich cultural heritage.

Here are our tips for discovering this exceptional region on your next road trip to Quebec!

Introduction to Charlevoix in Quebec

Located an hour northeast of Quebec, the Charlevoix region stretches along the north shore of the Saint-Lawrence River, between Petite-Rivière-Saint-François and the mouth of the Saguenay. Its spectacular landscape in the heart of the Canadian Shield, composed of mountains, valleys, and steep cliffs, is the result of the impact of a giant meteorite over 400 million years ago, creating one of the most impressive craters in North America.

Recognized as a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1989, Charlevoix presents three distinct ecosystems between river and mountain, ranging from a temperate maritime climate along the coast to tundra vegetation on the highest peaks, through the boreal forest.

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When to visit Charlevoix?

Charlevoix proves to be an enchanting destination throughout the year, each season bringing its share of unique experiences.

In spring, nature gently awakens, offering softer activities such as visits to sugar shacks, first kayak outings on the Charlevoix coast, and spring hikes to observe the return of wildlife.

Summer benefits from ideal conditions for hiking in national parks, whale watching on the Saint-Lawrence from Baie-Sainte-Catherine and exploring the Flavor Trail with its local producers.

Autumn transforms the region into a symphony of vibrant colors, perfect for photographic road trips and romantic getaways in charming inns and perfect spots for sunsets.

Winter turns Charlevoix into a true white paradise where the Massif of Charlevoix and Mont Grand-Fonds attract ski enthusiasts, while snowy trails delight snowmobilers.

How to get to Charlevoix?

Several options are available to get to Charlevoix from Montreal or Quebec City.

• By car: it takes about 4 hours from Montreal and 1 hour from Quebec City by taking road 138.
• By public transport: bus companies Intercar and Orléans Express provide regular links to Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie. Once there, the Charlevoix Collective Mobility service allows travel between the various municipalities of the region.
• Note that the Charlevoix train is no longer in service from 2025.
• By RV: road 138 is well adapted and offers many panoramic viewpoints with parking areas. Some secondary roads may be narrow or have steep slopes - always check your itinerary in advance. Dumping stations are available in major campsites and some municipalities.

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Things to do and to see in Charlevoix

Map of Charlevoix

The destinations on the coast

La Malbaie

Historical birthplace of vacationing in Canada, La Malbaie charms with its unique natural allure. The Manoir Richelieu, a true architectural gem, majestically overlooks the cliffs above the Saint-Lawrence.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the cultural wealth of the Charlevoix Museum, which retraces the fascinating history of the region through captivating exhibitions. For a memorable gastronomic experience, the local public market is brimming with exceptional local products.

The Cap-à-l'Aigle area delights visitors with its magnificent lilac gardens and heritage homes. Hikers can take the Sentier des Caps, offering spectacular views over the Saint-Lawrence estuary and surrounding mountains.

Baie-Saint-Paul

Nestled between mountains and river, Baie-Saint-Paul captivates with its unique bohemian atmosphere. The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Street, the lively artery of the city, teems with contemporary art galleries, restaurants, and local artisan shops reflecting its creative vocation.

A detour through the Boisé du Quai leads you to a golden sandy beach, perfect for admiring sunsets over the Saint-Lawrence.

The local gastronomy shines particularly thanks to the producers on the Flavor Trail. From microbreweries to artisanal cheese dairies, each address tells an authentic story of the Charlevoix terroir.

The Charlevoix coast

Nautical activity lovers will enjoy the beach of Saint-Irénée, an enchanting spot for swimming and kayaking. This historic seaside resort retains the charm of past vacations with its colorful beach cabins.

A few kilometers away, the village of Les Éboulements reveals a spectacular panorama from its viewpoint. Hikers will discover trails leading to stunning viewpoints over the river and the hinterland.

The area of Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive is home to the Charlevoix Maritime Museum, which traces the fascinating history of navigation on the Saint-Laurent through a unique collection of traditional schooners. Visitors can even participate in a guided tour to learn about ancient shipbuilding techniques.

L'Isle-aux-Coudres

Just 1h30 from Quebec, L'Isle-aux-Coudres invites you for an unforgettable getaway in the heart of the Saint-Laurent. A true must-see of the splendid region of Charlevoix, this island offers breathtaking views between sea and mountains.

Its rich maritime heritage is revealed through its ancestral mills, its living traditions, and its local flavors. Freely accessible by ferry, it promises an experience where preserved nature and authenticity blend harmoniously.

Don't miss our complete guide to L'Isle-aux-Coudres!

The Casino of Charlevoix

Perched on the cliff of Pointe-au-Pic, the Casino of Charlevoix elegantly combines entertainment with breathtaking views of the Saint-Laurent. This prized destination houses over 950 state-of-the-art slot machines and traditional gaming tables such as blackjack and roulette.

An underground passage directly connects the establishment to the prestigious Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu, allowing visitors to fully enjoy gourmet restaurants and the spa without stepping outside.

Parks, Trails, and Hikes

The Charlevoix region boasts an exceptional network of national parks that will delight outdoor enthusiasts.

The Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

It is a natural wonder of Quebec, contributing to Charlevoix's designation as a World Biosphere Reserve. Its spectacular terrain, marked by deep valleys and mountains over 1,000 meters high, as well as the unique course of the Malbaie River, make it an exceptional site.

A must-do hike in Quebec, the Acropole-des-Draveurs offers a spectacular view of the Malbaie River and the highest rock faces in Eastern Canada. Its steep gradient makes it a demanding challenge, but the reward at the top is worth the effort!

• Open all year round (services available depending on the sectors)
• Welcome Center: Félix-Antoine-Savard Center (km 21, route 381)

The Grands-Jardins National Park

The Grands-Jardins National Park is a natural gem of Charlevoix, part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With its unique northern landscapes blending taiga, tundra, and peaks over 1,000 m, it offers spectacular views, particularly from the Mont du Lac-des-Cygnes. In both summer and winter, the activities are varied: hiking, fishing, via ferrata, Nordic skiing, and wildlife observation. This preserved territory is home to black bears, red foxes, wolves, and Canadian grouse.

• Open all year round (services available depending on the sectors)
• Welcome Center: Arthabaska Center (from route 381, take route 60).

The Mont du Dôme Trail

The Mont du Dôme Trail offers a memorable climb to a breathtaking viewpoint over the Gouffre Valley. Walkers will particularly enjoy the tranquility of this less frequented trail compared to its popular neighbors.

The Bay Trail

For a family experience, the Bay Trail winds between Petite-Rivière-Saint-François and Baie-Saint-Paul. Its path runs along the river through landscapes that have inspired many Quebecois painters.

Skiing at the Massif de Charlevoix

A true natural gem between river and mountains, the Massif de Charlevoix stands out for its impressive elevation of 770 meters. This unique ski resort in Quebec enchants visitors with its 53 trails that seem to plunge directly into the Saint-Laurent.

Beyond traditional alpine skiing, the domain unveils a multitude of surprises. The sled descent over an impressive length of 7.5 kilometers represents an exhilarating adventure accessible to families. Snowshoe hikers, on the other hand, discover preserved wild areas, particularly on the heights of Mont à Liguori.

During the beautiful season, the Massif transforms into a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts. The 55 kilometers of trails include learning areas and technical routes that will delight both beginners and experts.

Where to stay in Charlevoix?

There are many options in Charlevoix: classic hotels, upscale, campgrounds, or charming inns, find the perfect accommodation!

The best hotels

• Aux Portes du Soleil (Baie-Saint-Paul): in this fully renovated motel, comfort and the warm hospitality of the host owners are at the heart of the experience.
• Hôtel Baie-Saint-Paul (Baie-Saint-Paul): its excellent value for money and accessibility offer an ideal starting point for exploring Charlevoix.
• Hôtel Le Germain Charlevoix (Baie-Saint-Paul): inspired by old farm buildings, this hotel offers a sophisticated experience at the heart of the countryside.
• Fairmont Manoir Richelieu (La Malbaie): here, exceptional hospitality, the tranquility of nature, and the elegance of a renowned hotel promise an unforgettable stay.

The charming inns

• Auberge des 3 Canards (La Malbaie): a warm setting with stunning views of the Saint-Lawrence River, combining comfort, refined gastronomy, and an authentic atmosphere for an unforgettable stay.
• Auberge Le Four à Pain (Petite-Rivière-Saint-François): nestled between the river and mountains, here is a rustic stop where the charm of yesteryear mixes with the coziness of the hearth.
• Auberge La Maison sous les Pins (Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive): a peaceful haven where the whisper of conifers accompanies gentle moments, between period charm, warm hospitality, and gourmet pleasures.

Chalets and Ready-to-Camp

• Repère Boréal (Les Éboulements): experience a unique ecotourism adventure at the heart of nature in an enchanting setting.
• Domaine Le Pic Bois (Saint-Aimé-des-Lacs): an authentic Quebec experience awaits you on this vast domain by a peaceful lake!
• Momentôm Refuges Nature (Petite-Rivière-Saint-François): reconnect with nature during a stay between relaxation and serenity.
• Ready-to-camp and chalets of Grands-Jardins (SEPAQ): ideal for a stay in the heart of nature, for total immersion in the forest environment.
• Ready-to-camp and chalets of Hautes-Gorges (SEPAQ): an ideal place to enjoy the majestic landscapes of the valley and tackle the hiking challenge to the Acropole-des-Draveurs.

Camping in Charlevoix

• Camping du Parc des Hautes-Gorges (SEPAQ): with its deep valleys and some of the highest cliffs east of the Rockies, this park offers exceptional landscapes. Onsite services include a sanitary block and a dump station.
• Espace Go-Van - Famille Migneron (Baie Saint-Paul): stay on a private estate surrounded by pastures, mountains, and vineyards. Enjoy 2 sites for vans (25 feet maximum), without services but with drinking water nearby and dry toilets.

Restaurants in Charlevoix

Charlevoix is renowned for the quality of its fine dining, notably highlighted by the Flavour Trail. Here, culinary delights are at the forefront!

• Café Charlevoix ($) - Baie-Saint-Paul: micro-roaster and café in Baie-Saint-Paul serving breakfasts and snacks in the friendly ambiance of an artisanal café.
• Joe Smoked Meat ($) - Baie-Saint-Paul: this casual canteen is known for its subs and smoked meat in a family-friendly and unpretentious atmosphere.
• Ah La Vache! La fondue en cavale ($$) - Baie-Saint-Paul: enjoy cheese specialties in the warm ambiance of an alpine chalet.
• Le Mouton Noir ($$) - Baie-Saint-Paul: a culinary institution in Baie-Saint-Paul serving refined bistro cuisine with a terrace overlooking the Gouffre River in a rustic-chic decor.
• Camp Boule ($$) - Petite-Rivière-Saint-François: an excellent address perched on the heights of the Charlevoix massif offering delicious local cuisine.
• Buvette Gentille ($$) - Baie-Saint-Paul: an intimate wine bar in Baie-Saint-Paul offering inventive seasonal cuisine in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
• Saint-Pub - Microbrasserie Charlevoix ($$) - Baie-Saint-Paul: this pub-restaurant in Baie-Saint-Paul offers comforting shared dishes, accompanied by craft beers in a relaxed and lively setting.
• Restaurant Le Charlevoix ($$$) - La Malbaie: a gourmet restaurant at Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu offering high-end cuisine with a spectacular view of the river.
• Faux Bergers ($$$) - Baie-Saint-Paul: this gourmet restaurant offers creative local cuisine in the warm setting of a modern farm.
• Restaurant Le Bercail ($$$) - Baie-Saint-Paul: the refined table of Germain Charlevoix combines local products and panoramic views in an elegant contemporary decor.

How to organize your visit to Charlevoix?

Discovering the Charlevoix region is particularly easy, as it is geographically located between Quebec and the Saguenay Fjord. It's possible to spend just one day or stay overnight, but we highly recommend at least two nights to truly capture its charm and beauty, especially if it's your first time. Welcome to Charlevoix!

Charlevoix in one day

If you are just passing through Charlevoix to reach Tadoussac or the Saguenay Fjord from Quebec (or vice versa), make a stop at Baie-Saint-Paul, the cultural heart of the region. Stroll along Saint-Jean-Baptiste Street, lined with art galleries and local craft shops.

Continue on the Route du Fleuve and the Saint-Irénée beach, particularly stunning in good weather. Finally, stop for lunch or a gourmet break in La Malbaie, by the river, before reaching your destination for the evening.

Charlevoix in two days

Two days in Charlevoix will give you a beautiful glimpse of its atmosphere and splendid scenery.

Start by exploring the Parc National des Hautes-Gorges on the first day. Hike on the panoramic trails or opt for a cruise on the Malbaie River. The evening will be perfect for savoring a gourmet meal in La Malbaie.

On the second day, head to Isle-aux-Coudres. A bike tour of the island will allow you to admire the historic mills and meet local artisans. On the way back, make a stop at the farms of the Route des Saveurs to bring back cheeses, ciders, and other local delicacies.

Charlevoix in three days

A three-day getaway allows for a deeper exploration of the hidden treasures of this exceptional region.

The first morning opens with an invigorating hike at Mont du Lac des Cygnes, offering a spectacular view of the Charlevoix crater. In the afternoon, visit the Ferme Basque to discover sheep farming and taste their specialties.

The second day will hold intense moments at Parc des Hautes-Gorges if you attempt the ascent of Acropole des Draveurs.

The last day takes you to Les Éboulements, where architectural heritage beautifully blends with the river panoramas. End your stay with a tasting of fine chocolates at Chocolaterie du Village, before enjoying a memorable sunset at the Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive lookout.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Where is the region of Charlevoix located in Canada and what is near?

Nestled along the northern shore of the St. Lawrence River, Charlevoix lies approximately 400 kilometers from Montreal and 90 minutes northeast of Quebec City.

The area connects seamlessly to the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region to the north and Quebec City to the west, making it a perfect base for exploring Quebec! Popular destinations like Tadoussac's famous dunes and the Saguenay Fjord stand just a short drive away.

What to do in Charlevoix with family?

The Cité Mémoire Charlevoix amazes children and adults alike with its interactive multimedia projections that tell the story of the region in a playful way. A magical nighttime experience!

If you plan to hike with children, be sure to check the recommended routes and the importance of elevation changes on specialized sites like alltrails.com. The two national parks, Grands-Jardins and Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, are waiting for you!

Tobogganing is a must if you travel in winter, with the slope at Le Massif, one of the longest in North America!

The river walks, whether wildlife watching or kayaking, will be particularly enjoyable in good weather.

 

Are there bears and can we see whales in Charlevoix?

Charlevoix offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year. From June to October, the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park welcomes the whales! Professional guides lead boat tours departing from Baie-Sainte-Catherine, with a remarkable sighting success rate.

For bear enthusiasts, the region's dense forests provide natural habitats for black bears. A unique photo safari runs from June to early October in Saint-Aimé-des-Lacs, where experienced guides take small groups to observe these fascinating creatures in their environment.

A wide variety of birds can also be seen in the region, much appreciated by birdwatchers.

 

Which towns are part of the Charlevoix region?

The west of Charlevoix revolves around Baie-Saint-Paul, its capital, as well as Les Éboulements, Isle-aux-Coudres, Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, and Saint-Urbain.

The eastern part, meanwhile, stretches around La Malbaie, including Saint-Irénée, Saint-Siméon, Saint-Aimé-des-Lacs, and Notre-Dame-des-Monts.

These municipalities, nestled between sea and mountains, preserve a rich architectural heritage. Their historic centers house charming ancestral homes testifying to the region's maritime and agricultural history.

Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, culture lover, or gourmet, Charlevoix promises you unforgettable moments between river and mountains.

Don't wait any longer to discover this exceptional region! Discover our road trips and plan your tailor-made stay in Charlevoix.