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Gaspésie

Early on in its history, Gaspésie became a must-see destination thanks to its picture-perfect landscapes and its warm and friendly people, who form a truly multicultural mosaic. Now it is your turn to discover the exceptional natural environment of this region!
 
Visit Gaspésie

a must-see destination
 

In the history of tourism in Québec, Gaspésie is identified as one of the first widely known tourist destinations. Beginning in the 19th century, Percé—and the legendary Percé Rock—as well as Carleton and Métis were the first resort areas to welcome a middle-class clientele who enjoyed salmon fishing and the seaside. This era is evoked in the exhibit showcased in the Estevan Lodge at the Reford Gardens.

A region of sea and mountains, Gaspésie is ideal for sea kayaking and scuba diving, as well as short or long hikes and mountain bike excursions. In addition, this region offers excellent opportunities for whale and bird watching from land or during sea excursions, as well as moose and caribou observation.

PICTURE-PERFECT LANDSCAPES

A long peninsula bathed in the waters of the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence, Gaspésie charms its visitors with its contrasting landscapes ranging from undulating countryside to mountains overlooking the sea. In fishing and agricultural villages and small, dynamic towns built at the mouths of rivers, humans have carved out a place for themselves while preserving the natural world around them.

Gaspésie has a population of slightly over 145,000 residents spread out along the coast and in the Matapédia Valley. The main road, Route 132, which forms a loop of about 900 kilometres (560 miles), is a unique scenic route known and appreciated far beyond Québec’s borders.
 

AN EXCEPTIONAL NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

The natural heritage of Gaspésie is so exceptional that this region is home to one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Chaleur Bay, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and no fewer that four national parks:
- Gaspésie National Park
- Forillon National Park of Canada
- Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park
- Miguasha National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Hiking lovers can discover the wild beauty of the area along the 644 kilometres (400 miles) of the International Appalachian Trail, which runs from Matapédia all the way to Cap-Gaspé in Forillon National Park of Canada.
 

A MULTICULTURAL MOSAIC

A welcoming land, Gaspésie has been shaped by the cultures and traditions of its various founding peoples. This region is characterized by a blend of ethnic, cultural and religious traditions that is unique in Québec. The Gaspesian identity can be appreciated today in the architecture of the houses, the churches of various denominations, the many gardens and the arts; it can also be heard in the languages, accents, vocabulary and songs of the various communities that make up modern Gaspésie. A number of historic sites, museums and interpretation sites relate the history and talents of the Gaspesians of today and yesterday.

The Gaspesian identity can also be experienced through its local cuisine, artists and artisans. Gourmets will particularly appreciate the subtle and highly prized flavours of lobster, snow crab, northern shrimp, fresh fish and other local delicacies. Finally, boutiques, studios and art galleries introduce visitors to artists and artisans who invent new and refreshing worlds using age-old techniques and products.