May 14
As a sea-oriented region boasting spectacular and varied landscapes, Québec maritime is a true sea kayaking paradise. Sea kayaking is actually one of the best ways to see seals and a multitude of seabirds while peacefully admiring the coastline from the water. Explore our numerous memorable destinations and, if you don’t have your own equipment, take advantage of the many guided excursions offered throughout the maritime regions of Québec.
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The maritime regions of Québec offer the best opportunities by far to watch whales and other majestic marine mammals. Beginning during capelin migration in mid-spring, many large whale species follow schools of fish to gorge themselves after several months of fasting in the subtropical waters of the North Atlantic. The whales thus spend the summer in the cold waters of the St. Lawrence and in subarctic waters to feed, and then migrate to warm temperate/subtropical waters to reproduce. During their migration, the whales travel far into the St. Lawrence, dispersing in the Gulf and continuing their journey in the Middle Estuary (to Rivière-du-Loup on the south shore and Saint-Siméon on the north shore). Some areas are rich in plankton and other tiny marine organisms that attract fish, which in turn are the whales’ favourite prey. These ideal whale-watching locations were identified decades ago and can be found throughout the regions of Québec maritime. Read more
Percé is a fascinating town. “It’s a place that was once inhabited by the gods,” as Jean-Louis Lebreux, director of the Musée Le Chafaud, likes to say. Its main attraction is of course famous Percé Rock, a landmark that’s 400 million years old, a “pierced rock” with only one arch left since the other one collapsed on June 17, 1845. Cathedral, ghost ship, sculpture… These terms barely do justice to the majesty of this monument. Although this giant has feet of clay (tonnes of sedimentary rock collapse every year due to erosion), your first sight of this huge rock formation will take your breath away. Read more
Depending on your tastes and preferences, there are many ways to explore the regions of Québec maritime. When I participate in events or am active on social networks, I’m often asked about the best scenic routes in our regions. This is a bit like asking a mother to choose her favourite child! However, for the sake of this post, I will introduce you to some of my favourites, the St. Lawrence Road Trips. Read more
Nature in the city… This could be the slogan for Sept-Îles, one of the largest cities in land size in Québec, with an area of over 2000 km2 (770 sq. mi.). Named after the seven islands that protect its round bay, Sept-Îles is a must-see destination in Côte-Nord – Duplessis that boasts one of the highest numbers of sunny days per year in the province. Read more
Named after the Mi’kmaq word Gespeg, which means “land’s end,” Gaspé is the perfect name for a town located at the edge of the world at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. A blend of wind, sea, mountains, arts, cultural events and outdoor activities, Gaspé is not only a lively and dynamic town, but also the perfect place to spend your vacation. Read more
