Baie-des-Chaleurs or Chaleur Bay boasts a surprising diversity of vegetation and wildlife; stunning unspoiled ocean, mountain and river landscapes; a unique cultural heritage and, true to its name, the warmest water in Gaspésie!
The region has retained a rich and diverse culture: you will find that every village has its own particular accent, local festival and cultural traditions! A must-see to add to your eastern Canada tour.
MIGUASHA FOSSIL PARK
History and nature lovers won't want to miss Miguasha fossil site, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 in recognition of its wealth of well-preserved fossils and their importance in understanding a page from the story of evolution. Visitors of all ages will enjoy discovering the fascinating world of fossils and paleontology. A visit of the site, open from June till October, takes about an hour and a half.
BONAVENTURE RIVER CANOE RUN
The Bonaventure River begins at Bonaventure Lake in the Appalachian mountain chain and flows over a distance of 126 kilometres before emptying into Baie-des-Chaleurs. It is considered to be one of the clearest and most pristine rivers in the world.
Canoeing down the crystal-clear Bonaventure River is a unique opportunity to discover the nature and wildlife of Gaspésie in a stunning natural setting. This activity is accessible for the whole family (aged 4 and over), for beginners and experts alike. All necessary equipment is provided. Different types of excursions are possible, lasting from 2 hours to 2 days.
Late May to early September.
CARLETON-SUR-MER BEACH
Carleton-sur-Mer is one of few places in Québec where you can swim comfortably in the ocean, without getting too cold! The warm ocean currents that enter the bay from the Gulf of St. Lawrence result in some of the warmest saltwater on the Atlantic coast north of the state of Virginia. There are several beaches in the area, depending what you are looking for.
The most popular of these is the municipal beach, right in the heart of Carleton-sur-mer. Its warm water, easy access, bathroom facilities and soft sand make it a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Late June to the early September.
HIKING ON MONT SAINT-JOSEPH
Mont Saint-Joseph is one of the highest points in Baie-des-Chaleurs. At 555 metres above sea level, the summit offers a spectacular view of the sea, all the way to the New Brunswick coast.
With the Oratoire Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Saint-Joseph, a former pilgrimage destination, perched on its summit, this is one of the few mountains in Québec that is accessible by car. While you are there, you can take a guided tour of the oratory and enjoy some of the 30 kilometres of hiking trails.
Open from mid-June until Thanksgiving (2nd Monday in October).
MUSÉE ACADIEN QUÉBEC
Discover the region's culture, history and ethnology at this fascinating museum located in the heart of Baie-des-Chaleurs. Its temporary and permanent exhibits will help you better understand the importance and characteristics of Québec's large Acadian community.
Banc-de-PÊCHE-DE-PASPÉBIAC HISTORIC SITE
Located on the edge of Chaleur Bay, Banc-de-pêche-de-Paspébiac was named a National Historic Site of Canada in 2001 because of its social, economic and historical importance to the country's cod fishing industry.
The architecture of the 11 buildings, built between 1783 and 1900, bear witness to more than 250 years of history. You are sure to encounter some real Paspéyas, descendants of the village's original settlers! There is also a restaurant on the site.
LE MALIN BEACH
Another way to enjoy the clear waters of the Bonaventure River is at Le Malin, about 6 km from Route 132. The Le Malin force R2 rapid borders a pebble/sandy beach. It's a great spot for a family outing! There is an entrance fee but life jackets are available, fee of charge.
Open from late June to late September.