Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre

Cap-de-Bon-Désir is a magnificent natural headland that is ideal for observing whales and seals. These large marine mammals sometimes come to feed within metres of the shore.

This site also provides visitors with the opportunity to participate in a variety of interpretive activities. Accompanied by interpreters, head off to discover the shoreline or observe naturalist-divers plunge into the green waters of the St. Lawrence. They will bring up some of the mysterious animals that live at the bottom of the estuary for you to see. Keep your eyes wide open: you will be surprised by their shapes and colours! Also listen to accounts of the history of the lighthouse and its residents, and learn about the evolution of navigation on the St. Lawrence.

Activities and services: land-based marine mammal observation, interpretive activities, exhibit room, lighthouse.

Opening dates

From mid-June to mid-October

Schedule

June to Labour Day: Daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Labour Day to Thanksgiving: Wednesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost

Individual and family rates available.

Note for this reservation

Recommended for groups

Payment methods

• Cash
• American Express
• MasterCard
• Visa

Activities available in summer

Hiking

From the lighthouse, hike out to the coastline to admire the whales from the shore. Interpreters are on site to answer your questions. Dress warmly and bring a picnic!

Interpretation Sites

The marine park is composed entirely of water. However, it is possible to discover its secrets without getting your feet wet. All the mysteries of this ecosystem will be revealed to you at the interpretation centres located on the park’s shores.

Lighthouses

The Cap-de-Bon-Désir Lighthouses is one of the most recent lighthouses to be built along the St. Lawrence. Participate in activities at the lighthouse to learn about the history of the St. Lawrence lighthouses and their lighthouse keepers.

National Parks and Wildlife Reserves

The Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre is located on the shores of the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park. From the rocks or the lookout, discover this unique marine conservation area via interpretive activities.

Whale Watching

Sites such as the Marine Environment Discovery Centre, Cap-de-Bon-Désir, Pointe de l’Islet and Pointe-Noire are excellent places to observe marine mammals. Come and be inspired by this marine environment and keep your eyes wide open!

Wildlife Observation

The marine park is home to a profusion of marine life! Come and observe whales and seabirds at the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre. You can also participate in activities focusing on marine animals with biologist divers.

See what this partner is offering in fall.

Services

• Picnic area
• Pets allowed on leashes only
• Free parking

How to get there

Route 138 to Les Bergeronnes.

Affiliations and distinctions

Affiliation
The Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre is part of the Parks Canada network. Discover for yourself the many wonders, adventures and learning experiences that await you in Canada’s national parks, historic sites, historic canals and marine conservation areas. Help us keep them healthy and whole—for their sake and ours.