Lac Saint-Jean is a vast inland sea.
The region's inhabitants are affectionately referred to as “les Bleuets” (Blueberries) after the wild blueberry that grows in abundance here.
The people of Lac St-Jean are also famous for their warm hospitality, which you are sure to encounter early in your stay.
If you are looking to build a short 10-day itinerary in Canada, it is definitely a must-see.
SAINT-FÉLICIEN WILD ZOO
This wild zoo is different from traditional zoos: it houses only animals from Boreal climates, i.e. from the world's northern regions such as Canada, Alaska, northern Russia and certain areas of Asia (Japan) and Europe.
There are more than 500 animals of 86 different species and 4.5 km of hiking trail. At Saint-Félicien Wild Zoo, visitors enjoy a unique experience as they take a ride on board a screened-in train along nature trails where humans are in cages, while the animals roam free!
You will also find on the site some shops, a main restaurant and several dining areas if you want to bring your picnic.
VAL-JALBERT HISTORICAL VILLAGE
Founded in 1918, Val-Jalbert became a “ghost town” after being abandoned by its inhabitants in 1927, the year the pulp and paper factory closed its doors.
Visitors can admire the powerful Ouiatchouan Falls , higher than Niagara Falls, and forty or so original period buildings including the convent-school, general store and post office. Other activities include guided tours on board the trolleybus, theatrical presentations and a cable car ride to the top of the falls. Restaurant and shops on the site.
NATIVE MUSEUM OF MASHTEUIATSH
This museum is a fascinating way to discover the culture and lifestyle of the Ilnus of Lac-St-Jean and to learn about the other First Nations of Québec and the Americas through a permanent exhibition, temporary exhibitions and much more
Open every day from mid-June to mid-September from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday-Saturday in low season. Closed during the holiday season.
SWIMMING IN LAC ST-JEANThe shores of Lac Saint-Jean offer many kilometres of sandy beach. Here are a few suggestions of places to enjoy the lake's refreshing waters:
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Festivals calendar
Traversée internationale du lac St-Jean
Dates: end of July
Description: Every summer since 1955, The Traversée internationale du lac St-Jean has been attracting elite open water swimmers from around the world to the town of Roberval. Activities include open water swimming races, outdoor shows, fireworks, Supper in the Streets, a Winners' Parade, family events, and more.
Festival du Bleuet (Blueberry Festival)
Dates: end of July
Description: The blueberry, the emblem of Lac Saint-Jean, can be found in all its forms during this popular celebration, where a giant 1.5-m pie made with 90 kg of blueberries is shared by 450 festival-goers and activities such as a grand parade, live entertainment and supper in the street promise fun for the whole family.