Gaspésie is a land of contrasts. While 25 of the highest peaks in Québec are found in the interior of this vast peninsula, the Gaspé coast is surrounded by unique beaches and unforgettable views. Not only is this region home to legendary Percé Rock, but it also boasts four national parks, world-renowned salmon rivers, a rich history and a multitude of talented chefs, artists and artisans.
The scenery of Gaspésie is also charming in the winter. Mountain sports enthusiasts will be thrilled by the many opportunities to explore the Chic-Choc Mountains and other parts of the Appalachians while skiing, snowshoeing or snowboarding. In addition, the Gaspé Peninsula is renowned as a snowmobile destination, offering nearly 2000 kilometres (1200 miles) of trails with breathtaking views.
The International Appalachian Trail (IAT) in Québec criss-crossing the Gaspé Peninsula will undoubtedly arouse your interest. The IAT offers numerous hiking and backpacking options, from a two-hour-long stroll in the woods or along the shoreline, to the full-on 40-day-long trip.
Read MoreYou can’t really miss La Maison du Pêcheur when you visit Percé because of its prime location literally steps away from the wharf where depart tour boats heading for Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock.
Read MoreMotorcycling the Gaspé Peninsula is a rite of passage. Québec’s east coast is revered as one of those legendary rides. Stunning as it is, the maritime regions of Québec offer plenty of alternatives to the explorative motorcyclist.
Read MoreI must say I was very impressed by my visit to the Magasin Général Historique Authentique 1928, located in Percé, right at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. It’s a former general store of the Robin, Jones and Whitman Company, whose last owner was Gaston Cloutier. Just before passing away in 2000, Mr. Cloutier handed the store over to his sons, Rémi and Ghislain, who decided to turn it into a living museum.
Read MoreThere are lots of things to do with children in Gaspésie, but if you’re in the Chaleur Bay area, the Bioparc de la Gaspésie is a must-see. If you’re anything like me, watching animals will make you feel like a kid again—and this is exactly how I felt when I visited the Bioparc.
Read MoreDid you know that Bonaventure Island, off Percé, boasts a rich and fascinating history? To illustrate this legacy and share it with visitors, the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (SÉPAQ) has set up a program that showcases the island’s built heritage.
Read MoreLocated at the eastern tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, the town of Percé is a must-see during your next tour of Gaspésie. There’s so much to discover in this area: numerous attractions, talented local artists and artisans, excellent restaurants where you can savour fresh seafood, not to mention breathtaking landscapes dominated by famous Percé Rock.
Read MoreFrenchman Yoann Ronsin runs the Sentiers privés travel agency, which specializes in trips to North America. He had the opportunity to stay at the Auberge de Montagne des Chic-Chocs in Gaspésie and wrote the following post about his experience.
Read More