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.
Year-round, I’m a big fan of the great outdoors! In the winter, I swap my hiking boots for snowshoes or skis and set off to explore the trails, whether in national parks or elsewhere. Here are a few suggestions of places to visit for your next snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or backcountry skiing trip.
Read MoreBefore I came to Québec for the first time, I’d made a list of all the things I wanted to do during my year of study in Matane, in Gaspésie. I was very impressed by the variety of wildlife found on this territory. What I didn’t anticipate was the awe I would feel seeing these animals.
Read MoreThe 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.
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