April 2010
Our phenomenal motorcycle road trip in
Québec maritime began in the region of
Bas-Saint-Laurent, on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River. Near the start of our adventure, two white rocks in the St. Lawrence marked our passage through Notre-Dame-du-Portage.
Riding along the shores of the river, breathing in the fresh sea air coming off the water, we revelled in the freedom of the open road. Motorcycle riding creates an amazing feeling of being part of the vast natural landscape around you.
The countryside unfolded before us as we rode through coastal villages, including some of the most beautiful in the province of Québec. We were heading towards
Gaspésie on spectacular Route 132 East through a land of rolling hills, gentle valleys and breathtaking views. This road is certainly not lacking in rest areas, each with its own particular charms. In addition, the artisans we met along the way greeted us warmly, delighting us with their art and their fascinating tales.
From Chandler, an overnight ferry took us to the
Îles de la Madeleine. Here, almost all roads hug the shore and overlook the Gulf of St. Lawrence. A unique and exotic archipelago of legendary beauty, the Islands are a world unto themselves, offering a complete change of pace and scenery.
Back on the south shore, we took another ferry to
Côte-Nord (the north shore), a vast region of pristine wilderness that stretches over hundreds of kilometres. Bordered by the sea, the north shore offers amazing panoramas. Our journey culminated at one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Tadoussac Bay.
There is nothing like motorcycle riding to stimulate the appetite! Luckily for us, fish and seafood are featured on nearly every menu in the gastronomic region of
Québec maritime. Whether we were stopping for a snack by the water or dining in a fine restaurant, we always enjoyed every bite.
Québec maritime is a great place for motorcycle touring. At the end of each of our road trips, we have only one thought in mind: to come back for another visit! There is so much to see and so much culture to experience in this magnificent region of Québec.
France and Michel
Moto-Virée
