The Québec maritime Blog

Côte-Nord

Côte-Nord is vast, wild and spectacular. It extends from Tadoussac to Blanc-Sablon and from the north shore of the St. Lawrence northward, to where the boreal forest gives way to the taiga. Out at sea and from the shore, up to 13 species of whales can be observed in this region. Côte-Nord is a land of extremes, from the Saguenay Fjord to the canyons of Anticosti Island, not to mention the mysterious monoliths of the Mingan Archipelago.

Various winter activities allow visitors to discover the vastness of this territory, whether by riding the region’s many snowmobile trails or exploring snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails. Ice fishing, wildlife observation and dogsledding are also among the many activities offered to visitors wishing to explore this untamed wilderness area.

To plan your trip, check out our Côte-Nord section.

 

Where to See Whales in Côte-Nord

   |   By Jean-Pierre Sylvestre, Le Québec maritime

The Côte-Nord region is recognized as one of the best places in the world to see marine mammals. Follow the Whale Route from Tadoussac to Blanc-Sablon, and you may observe up to 13 different species of whales! To help you plan your vacation, here are some observation sites you won’t want to miss in this region.

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6 Picnic Spots in Côte-Nord

   |   By Annick Beauchemin

A renowned whale-watching destination, Côte-Nord also offers a diversity of landscapes to admire. Finding a good picnic spot is easy since there are so many beautiful parks and rest areas throughout the region. Set off on a road trip adventure along the Whale Route and let yourself be guided by your instincts. You’ll find all the picnic fixings you’ll need in the lovely shops you’ll come across along the way. Now all you need to do is get ready to hit the road!

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7 Beaches to Discover in Côte-Nord

   |   By Valère Brable

Bordered by 1250 km (775 mi.) of coastline, Côte-Nord is a true paradise for sea lovers. Whether you want to go swimming, go for a stroll or simply enjoy the tranquility and fresh sea air, the region is full of beautiful beaches just waiting to be explored. Here are seven you won’t want to miss!

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5 Surprising Facts about Sept-Îles

   |   By Nathalie Katinakis

Located along the St. Lawrence in Côte-Nord near the halfway point of the Whale Route, Sept-Îles offers the ultimate fusion of land and sea in a single destination. With a rich Innu heritage, remarkable history and breathtaking natural landscapes, this fascinating city has no shortage of attractions. Here are five facts about Sept-Îles that may surprise you and will hopefully inspire you to plan a getaway to this destination!

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Gourmet Trail Featuring the Local Flavours of Côte-Nord

   |   By Diane Drapeau

Côte-Nord is a region full of charm, where natural beauty and gourmet pleasures combine to offer you an extraordinary road trip experience. Renowned for being home to some of the world’s largest marine mammals, Côte-Nord is also home to many impressive land-based wonders. There’s something magical about this region, which you’ll soon discover as you dip your toes into the cold waters of the Estuary or Gulf of St. Lawrence while gazing at the horizon… Once you’ve set foot here, you’ll want to come back again and again. To discover the region’s many flavours, we suggest you follow the Whale Route, a 1730-km (1075-mi.) round-trip journey along Route 138, which will take you about 13 days if you include a cruise to the Lower North Shore.

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4 Unforgettable Things to Do in Côte-Nord

   |   By Anne-Josée Pineau

A land of nature beyond measure, Côte-Nord is a vacation destination that’s sure to charm you. This region is a vast natural playground that’s ideal for a multitude of outdoor and cultural activities. Here are four you won’t want to miss during a road trip in this region!

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Discover the Many Treasures of Natashquan!

   |   By Olivier Pierson

Natashquan, which means “where one hunts for bear” in the Innu language, still feels a little bit like the edge of the world, no doubt because this village of nearly 300 people in Côte-Nord was, until very recently, the end of Route 138.

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