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.

 

Belugas on the Horizon

   |   By Parc marin du Saguenay–Saint-Laurent

Did you know that belugas lives right in the heart of the St. Lawrence Estuary? This isolated and fragile population was the driving force behind a grassroots movement to protect the marine ecosystems of the St. Lawrence and the Saguenay Fjord, which eventually led to the creation of Québec’s first marine protected area in 1998: the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park.

Read More

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!

Read More

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!

Read More

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!

Read More

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!

Read More

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.

Read More

5 Good Reasons to Visit Baie-Comeau

   |   By Marie-Eve Lagacé

Côte-Nord is home to a unique place that offers glacial history, fascinating industrial and maritime heritage, and access to wild and natural environments. You’ll find all of this and more in Baie-Comeau, a city located about 200 km (120 mi.) east of Tadoussac. Want more details? Here are five good reasons to visit this dynamic city and the surrounding area!

Read More