In this beautiful provincial park, the Malbaie River winds its way between the highest rock faces east of the Canadian Rockies to create a spectacular valley scenery that visitors can discover by going up the river in canoes and kayaks or by hiking. The trail that goes to the top of the "Acropole des Draveurs", the highest point in the park (1,048 m), offers an amazing view of the Hautes-Gorges. For the less adventurous visitors, it is also possible to go on a 90-minute cruise up the river during which a guide will help you discover the history, flora, fauna and geological features of the park (it's best to reserve in advance). Also, the "Erabliere" trail is an easy walking trail that goes along the Malbaie River, and it is especially beautiful in the fall when the maples turn from green to red, orange and yellow!
Updated Sep 30, 2009
Address: In Clermont, via Saint-Aimé-des-Lacs
Phone: 1-866-702-9202
Website: http://www.sepaq.com/pq/hgo/en/
Part of the prestigious Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Le Manoir Richelieu is a beautiful but pretty pricey resort overlooking the magnificient St. Lawrence River. Even if you can't afford to stay at the Manoir, you are still free to walk around the grounds and the main floor of the resort, sit in front of the fireplace, and enjoy the view! You can also stop for a meal at one of the Manoir's restaurants or have a drink in the tearoom or port room. The last time we were there we stopped by La Brise, the Manoir's lobby bar, and shared a platter of regional cheese with a glass of wine - we very much enjoyed the rich and yet very casual atmospehre of the place!
Updated Sep 30, 2009
Address: 181 Richelieu
Phone: 418-665-3703
Website: www.fairmont.com/richelieu/
The Charlevoix region is full of nice little villages. When traveling in this region, it pays to take your time and stop along the way because you never know what great landscapes, shops or museums you could discover hidden in the heart of a small village. On our first trip to Charlevoix, we found a beautiful little chapel in the small village of Port-au-Persil, which is completely hidden from view and only accessible by the sea shore (you need to drive as far as the road will take you and continue on foot). Built in 1893, the chapel is open to visitors free of charge, and its beautiful, quiet surroundings make for a truly one-of-a-kind picnic spot - you might even see a few whales!
Updated Oct 12, 2007
Address: Port-au-Persil
Phone: 1-866-926-0764
Website: http://www.port-au-persil.com/
This pottery gallery was founded almost 30 years ago by master potter Pierre Legault and it currently displays the works of about 50 ceramic artists from Quebec. Visitors can stroll through the workshop and choose from a great selection of original pieces that make for unique souvenirs from the Charlevoix region.
What to buy: Last time I was there I bought a beautiful oil lamp!
What to pay: Depends if you're looking for something big or small, but most pieces are reasonably priced.
Updated Oct 20, 2007
Address: 1001 Saint-Laurent (Route 138)
Phone: 418-638-2349
Website: www.poteriedeportaupersil.com
First I have to admit I'm not a casino person but as the Charlevoix Casino is supposed to be a pretty big attraction, I decided to check it out. It was pretty pathetic! Loooooots of elderly people on organized tours who sit around for hours at a time with a cup of quarters, ugh! There are so many things to do in the Charlevoix region, don't waste your time (and money) at the Casino!
Unique Suggestions: Sit at the bar, get something to drink and take a sip everytime someone with white hair walks in!
Fun Alternatives: The Manoir Richelieu is just a few steps away, enjoy an evening at the port room instead!
Written Nov 8, 2004
About halfway between La Malbaie and Tadoussac, there is a little village called Baie-des-Rochers. If you take the road that heads down to the river, you will discover a beautiful trail that goes around the bay. The view is amazing! And it's also a good spot for kayaking.
Written Nov 8, 2004
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