A Long Weekend in Charlevoix, Quebec: Trails, Culinary Delights and Cultural Gems
It’s peak fall colour time, and for many people across Canada, that also means peak long-weekend-outside-the-city time. We’ve put together a proposed long-weekend itinerary for the Baie-Saint-Paul area in the Charlevoix region of Quebec, ideal for the whole family – including a whole lot of Trans Canada Trail time!
Day 1: Arrive in Baie-Saint-Paul and settle in
Arrive in the Baie-Saint-Paul area. Situated 5 hours, 45 minutes from Ottawa, 4 hours from Montreal, and just over an hour from Quebec City, Baie-Saint-Paul is home to a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to chalet rentals, bed and breakfasts, inns and campsites. Once you’re settled, head out to grab a bite. The Sentier de la Baie section of the Trans Canada Trail takes you right through town on rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste, home to several restaurants, cafés and other treasures from Charlevoix’s Flavour Trail.
Photo credit: André-Olivier Lyra
Day 2: Hiking, then cheese, please!
Head out bright and early for some nature time. Hiking options abound in the area, so take your pick. The Sentier-Gabrielle-Roy-Est, which connects to the Sentier de la Baie, takes you through the neighbouring region of Petite-Rivière-Saint-François and offers exceptional fall colours and well-marked hiking trails with lots of viewpoints en route. The Trail name pays homage to author Gabrielle Roy, best known for the novel The Tin Flute, published in 1945. If you like, extend your outing on the Trans Canada Trail to Sentier Louise-Gasnier and Sentier-Gabrielle-Roy-Ouest. After your hike, head over to Parc des Riverains for a short walk and a quick playground stop, if you’re travelling with little ones.
After your Trail adventure, the next logical step is cheese, of course. Sample the local (delicious) fare at the Laiterie Charlevoix, or head north of Baie-Saint-Paul to La Famille Migneron, which also offers incredible cheese, plus wine and spirits made on site. La Famille Migneron also happens to be located along the Trans Canada Trail, so if you’re up for more Trail time, the Sentier les Florent is right on its doorstep.
Photo credit: André-Olivier Lyra
Day 3: Epics views all around
More trails await! The Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix is an excellent choice. You can easily make a day of it on the trail, marvelling at the incredible fall colours and views of the Saint Lawrence below. If, however, you’re looking to mix it up with views of another kind, , Baie-Saint-Paul is known for its wide range of art galleries and museums. The Musée d’art contemporain de Baie-Saint-Paul is right in town and features both temporary and permanent exhibits. You’ll also find several lovely galleries on rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
A great way to explore Baie-Saint-Paul is through a 3-kilometre art-focused walking tour, which includes the contemporary art museum, galleries, and some lovely viewpoints and public art.
After your outing, stop by the MicroBrasserie Charlevoix or Hydromel Charlevoix for a drink or head to Café Charlevoix and try out the house-roasted espresso beans.
Photo credit: Ben Liard
Day 4: Bid adieu to Baie-Saint-Paul (and vow to come back soon)
In the morning, head over to the Maison Mère Baie-Saint-Paul, home to the charming Mousse Café (if you’re travelling with kids, this is a great bet!), exhibitions on the building’s history, a bistro and auberge, and more.
Once you’ve packed up and reluctantly bid farewell to Baie-Saint-Paul (we pretty much guarantee you won’t be ready to leave), plan for some trail time on your route home. For those heading west, the Sentier Mestachibo and Sentier Mestachibo-Est are both great spots to stretch your legs. If you’ve got more time, head into Quebec City for the afternoon and explore the trails – and attractions there!
Wherever you end up in Charlevoix, chances are high that you’ll find trails, beautiful views and a warm welcome. Find more suggested itineraries and activities with Tourisme Charlevoix, and explore Charlevoix trails and more on our interactive map!
Photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix, Bon appétit QC
Main photo credit: André-Olivier Lyra
