News
Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park expansion project
In March 2025, the governments of Canada and Québec announced their joint intention to expand Québec’s first marine protected area, created in 1998, by 3.6 times. The proposed expansion would bring the marine park’s total surface area to nearly 4500 km2 (1750 sq. mi.) and extend its boundaries to the south shore of the St. Lawrence. Between May and October every year, up to 13 species of cetaceans frequent the salt waters of the St. Lawrence, including spectacular humpbacks and blue whales, the largest animals on Earth.
Find out more about the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
BAS-SAINT-LAURENT
Highly anticipated reopening of the Onondaga submarine in 2026
While the Onondaga submarine closed at the end of summer 2025 to lift and stabilize it, tours of the vessel will soon resume, with the reopening scheduled for June 2026. The site’s new configuration will allow visitors to get a closer look at the submarine’s various exterior features, enhancing the existing interpretive experience, which includes an audio tour of the interior.
Find out more about the Onondaga submarine
Entre l’Algue et l’Écorce: A new foodie experience featuring seasonal flavours
Located near Trois-Pistoles, this new gourmet destination was born from the vision of baker and pastry chef Rébecca Beaudin and her sister Coralie Beaudin, a chef. Acquired in June 2025, the old convent in Saint-Mathieu-de-Rioux has now been transformed into a cozy 6-room inn that also offers guests a seasonal culinary experience. This establishment has already become a must-visit foodie destination where local flavours come to life in an inspiring setting.
Find out more about Entre l’Algue et l’Écorce
New generation takes over Vieux Loup de Mer – Chalets Hôteliers
After 26 seasons of dedication to a project they built from the ground up, Martin Gagnon and Jean-Luc Leblond have now passed the torch to two locals, Marie-Josée Collin and Bernard Beaulieu. An iconic regional destination, Vieux Loup de Mer offers 15 fully equipped, authentically restored wooden chalets right on the water. The new owners are committed to operating the site in keeping with the vision of its founders.
Find out more about Vieux Loup de Mer – Chalets Hôteliers
Auberge du Mange Grenouille: Renovated rooms offering comfort, privacy and modern amenities
A charming 22-room inn located in the village of Le Bic, Auberge du Mange Grenouille is a unique and welcoming destination for visitors looking for a quiet and picturesque place to stay. The 7 rooms on the garden side have recently been renovated to give them a new look with more modern amenities.
Find out more about Auberge du Mange Grenouille
Domaine Carte Blanche: A former presbytery open year-round
Discover this 8-room guesthouse with a gourmet bistro counter located in the heart of the Témiscouata area. Open to travellers year-round, Domaine Carte Blanche offers an immersive experience: a special place where flavours, nature and human connections combine to create unforgettable memories.
Find out more about Domaine Carte Blanche
Parc Natur’Ailes: A nature getaway in Témiscouata between a lake and mountains
Located in the Notre-Dame Mountains within 30 minutes of Parc national du Lac-Témiscouata, Parc Natur’Ailes offers 2 modern and 2 rustic-style cottages, each accommodating up to 4 people. Available year-round, these units offer all the necessary amenities and feature a large porch where you can soak up views of Lac des Aigles.
Find out more about Parc Natur’Ailes
Interpretation Centre for Salmonids and Aquatic Systems: An immersion into the world of salmonids
Located in Lac-des-Aigles in the Témiscouata area and open year-round, this centre offers visitors the opportunity to discover the fascinating world of salmon and trout through an interactive and immersive exhibition. To get a closer look at all the species that inhabits the waters and shores of the lake, curious visitors can also enjoy a pontoon tour with a naturalist guide.
Find out more about the Interpretation Centre for Salmonids and Aquatic Systems
La Cabane du Ravage: Immersive sugar shack experience suitable for the whole family
Located in the Témiscouata area at the heart of a site frequented by white-tailed deer, La Cabane du Ravage is a sugar shack offering an immersive experience rooted in maple syrup traditions, with a boutique featuring maple products made on site. This unique experience, which is perfect for the whole family or a group of friends, includes a traditional sugar shack meal, snowshoeing and snow tubing.
Find out more about La Cabane du Ravage
GASPÉSIE
Espace NAPAGA: Where archaeology comes alive in nature
An open-air museum located less than an hour from Percé, Espace NAPAGA immerses visitors in 250 years of history in a maritime seigneury through the lives and adventures of the inhabitants of New France. Via guided tours and immersive experiences, archaeology enthusiasts can satisfy their curiosity and thirst for knowledge. On site, a typical Gaspesian snack bar offers dishes made with local ingredients.
Find out more about Espace NAPAGA
The Reford Gardens: A Québec marvel turns 100!
Begun in the summer of 1926 by pioneering horticulturalist Elsie Reford, the Reford Gardens are still to this day one of the top places to visit in Gaspésie. In addition to various restaurant options and the can’t-miss International Garden Festival, visitors can discover over 3000 species and varieties of plants woven into a natural setting and arranged along pathways combining natural scents and colours with design elements.
Find out more about the Reford Gardens
Fishing Pleasures: An audio experience that will immerse you in the fishing history of Gaspésie
The new permanent exhibition at the Matamajaw Fishing Heritage Site presents the evolution of salmon fishing through a conversation between two local figures. Equipped with headphones, visitors of all ages can journey back in time to discover the fascinating history of one of the province’s most famous private salmon fishing camps.
Find out more about the Matamajaw Fishing Heritage Site
Petite-Vallée: A festive destination with even more to offer
A hub of Québec culture and music, the Village en Chanson de Petite-Vallée is expanding! Located in the new Théâtre de la Vieille Forge, Alfred – Guinguette et Café is a lively gathering place where culinary delights, local culture and a festive spirit come together. From June to October, visitors can enjoy a drink or bite to eat while taking in a live performance. Also on site, Maison LeBreux offers year-round accommodations in 11 units ranging from motel rooms to fully equipped chalets sleeping up to 6 people.
Find out more about the Village en Chanson de Petite-Vallée
Find out more about Maison LeBreux
Forillon National Park unveils 3 new trails in the park’s North Area
As part of a major ecological restoration and enhancement project, Forillon National Park has developed three new trails that allow beavers (Parks Canada’s emblem) to reclaim their habitat: Le Castor (2.9-km / 1.8-mi. round trip), Le Ruisseau (4-km / 2.5-mi. loop) and Le Pic-Bois (between 4.8-km / 3-mi. and 7-km /4.3-mi. round trip). Accessible on foot or by bike, these trails offer access to unique settings: alongside beaver ponds, beside a shaded stream or deep within a mixed forest teeming with birds.
Find out more about Forillon National Park
Find out more about the 3 new trails in the park’s North Area
An enhanced experience at the Bioparc de la Gaspésie wildlife park
Following over a year of major works, the Bioparc de la Gaspésie, an educational wildlife park, is unveiling several new features that will enhance the visitor experience in 2026. A new indoor pavilion will host travelling exhibitions, the first of which will focus on bears. Other changes include an exhibition of wildlife artists, a redesigned science education trail and an interpretation area. The wildlife park will also welcome a new species this year, arctic wolves, which will reside in a habitat built specifically for them. In addition, the habitats of the otters, caribou and arctic foxes have been completely redesigned.
Find out more about the Bioparc de la Gaspésie
Paspébiac National Historic Site: 260 years of maritime heritage in Gaspésie
In 2026, the Paspébiac National Historic Site celebrates 260 years of history, highlighting the major role this site played in the economic and cultural development of Gaspésie. Witnesses to the prosperous cod-fishing era, the site’s 11 remarkably well-preserved buildings offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the major Jersey companies and fishing communities that shaped this region. Open from June to October, this must-see historic site offers an authentic immersion into the heart of Québec’s maritime heritage.
Find out more about the Paspébiac National Historic Site
Percé UNESCO Global Geopark: A decade of uncovering 500 million years of geological history
The Percé UNESCO Global Geopark celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2026. Showcasing an exceptional area where science, culture and spectacular landscapes converge, this unique site invites visitors to discover 500 million years of geological history. Offering 18 km (11 mi.) of hiking trails, a suspended glass platform and the Tektonik multimedia exhibition, the geopark provides experiences that will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts as well as geology buffs.
Find out more about the Percé UNESCO Global Geopark
Phare Cap-Chat: A historic stop along the St. Lawrence
Located along the St. Lawrence Estuary, the Cap-Chat Lighthouse is a warm and peaceful place steeped in history. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the top of the lighthouse as well as well-maintained trails dotted with interpretive panels that detail the history of this sentinel of the sea and the lives of the lightkeepers. Various lodging options are also available, including cottages, yurts and the spacious lightkeeper’s house, which offers 4 bedrooms and large common areas.
Find out more about Phare Cap-Chat
Petit Métis: The art of living by the sea year-round
Surrounded by serene coastal landscapes, Petit Métis offers a unique lodging experience right on the water’s edge in 9 different units. Travellers can choose from eco-cabins, renovated retro cabins or larger cottages, some of which are also available in the winter.
Find out more about Petit Métis
CÔTE-NORD
A glimpse into the lives of the lightkeepers on Petite Île au Marteau
Accessible by boat from Havre-Saint-Pierre, Petite Île au Marteau offers a unique glimpse into the maritime history of the Mingan Archipelago. From June to September, visitors can explore the light station with an audio guide available in three languages (English, French and German). The tour will immerse them in the daily lives of the lightkeepers and give them a better understanding of the essential role played by this lighthouse in coastal navigation.
Find out more about the Petite Île au Marteau Lighthouse
40th anniversary of Parc Nature de Pointe-aux-Outardes
Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Parc Nature de Pointe-aux-Outardes is unveiling a brand-new visitor and interpretation centre that will be open year-round. Built in accordance with sustainable development principles, this large facility will also house an innovative exhibition room that will showcase the Manicouagan Marine Protected Area.
Find out more about Parc Nature de Pointe-aux-Outardes
Hôtellerie Côte-Nord: A thriving family business
Travellers will be spoiled for choice with all the amenities and services offered by the three lodging establishments that are members of the Hôtellerie Côte-Nord hotel chain: Complexe Hôtelier Escoumins (37 rooms), Motel La Croisière (13 double rooms and studio units) and Motel Quatre Saisons (37 rooms). Open year-round, all these establishments are located near various points of interest in the region, namely the village of Tadoussac, snowmobile trails and/or the Les Escoumins ferry, which allows visitors to travel to the north shore of the St. Lawrence.
Find out more about Complexe Hôtelier Escoumins
Find out more about Motel La Croisière
Find out more about Motel Quatre Saisons
An authentic immersion in the boreal forest with Coeur Sauvage
Located 15 minutes from Tadoussac, Coeur Sauvage offers immersive experiences in the boreal forest that are accessible to everyone. From an introduction to edible wild plants to nature adventures in an all-terrain vehicle, each guided outing offers opportunities to discover the treasures of Côte-Nord. Visitors can also enjoy a rustic experience similar to glamping in 2 micro chalets (accommodating 2 or 4 people).
Find out more about Coeur Sauvage
Du Fleuve now offering sea kayaking excursions along the coast of Côte-Nord
As of summer 2026, this young company based in Les Escoumins will offer guided sea kayaking excursions along the coast. In keeping with the immersive approach that defines everything Du Fleuve offers, the new 3-hour excursions will allow participants to discover marine wildlife, the coastline and the unique character of this area only 30 minutes outside Tadoussac. Whether as a couple or in a small group, travellers can enjoy an authentic experience showcasing the rich diversity of the St. Lawrence Estuary.
Find out more about Du Fleuve
35th anniversary of the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre (CIMM)
Opened in 1991 in the village of Tadoussac, the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre (CIMM) is both an excellent introduction to whale watching and the perfect complement to an excursion at sea. This must-see science museum in Côte-Nord houses the largest collection of whale skeletons in Canada, including a North Atlantic right whale and a 13-metre (40-foot) sperm whale!
Find out more about the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre
Authenticity, tradition and sharing in Pessamit
Located along Route 138 and the St. Lawrence Estuary just over 30 minutes outside Baie-Comeau, the Innu community of Pessamit welcomes travellers and offers them authentic and immersive experiences. Through guided tours, stories and legends as well as craft workshops, every visit is an opportunity to connect with the culture and traditions of this community located on the ancestral homeland of the Innu people.
Find out more about Tourisme Pessamit
Ferme Maricole Purmer: Sea farming expertise in Côte-Nord
Located in the Sept Îles Archipelago, the Purmer sea farm invites travellers to enjoy a getaway where the sea is both a source of inspiration and a playground for discovery. This is an opportunity to learn about the cultivation of sea products while enjoying a warm welcome and soaking up stunning scenery. Visitors can also spend the night in a yurt offering a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence.
Find out more about Ferme Maricole Purmer
Nature and authenticity at Pourvoirie chez Pelchat
Nestled within an exclusive 10-km2 (about 4-sq. mi.) area deep in the forest only 45 minutes from the ferry terminal in the village of Les Escoumins, Pourvoirie chez Pelchat has been welcoming nature lovers for over 65 years. Available year-round, this outfitter’s 5 fully renovated lakefront chalets offer a peaceful and comfortable stay with direct access to the water. On site, visitors can explore the surrounding area on numerous hiking trails as well as participate in various other outdoor activities.
Find out more about Pourvoirie chez Pelchat
ÎLES DE LA MADELEINE
Gourmande de Nature: 45 years of culinary experience dedicated to foodies
Created by local chef Johanne Vigneau nearly 15 years ago, Gourmande de Nature is entirely dedicated to culinary delights and features a bistro, a wide selection of takeout dishes and a variety of artisanal products. Now operated by new owners but still benefitting from Johanne’s presence as executive chef, this culinary institution will continue to showcase local products to the many visitors who explore the archipelago each season.
Find out more about Gourmande de Nature
Grandma’s Bakery: Baked goods rooted in the culinary traditions of the local English-speaking community
Grandma’s Bakery is a worthy addition to the Islands’ regional culinary scene: simple, authentic and deeply rooted in local traditions. The bakery offers a wide range of authentic creations inspired by family recipes passed down through the generations. Located in Grosse-Île, at the heart of the archipelago’s English-speaking community, Grandma’s Bakery is a foodie destination not to be missed!
Find out more about Grandma’s Bakery
L’Échouerie Lighthouse: A heritage building saved from private sale by the community
Originally offered for sale to foreign developers, the L’Échouerie Lighthouse (also known as the Cap-Alright Lighthouse) was saved from private sale thanks to the efforts of local residents. A fundraising campaign raised more than $600 million from over 2500 donors, making it possible to not only purchase the lighthouse but also establish a fund for the site’s enhancement and conservation. Of historic importance to the locals, this significant and promising gesture will ensure the long-term preservation of this structure.
Find out more about the L’Échouerie Lighthouse
Auberge du Port: A cozy place to stay at the heart of the archipelago
Operating for the last 10 years, this 27-room inn overlooks the central island of Cap aux Meules, offering guests a splendid view of the sea year-round as well as three categories of rooms, providing options for every budget. In addition, guests have access to a large shared kitchen and a recently renovated spacious lounge.
Find out more about Auberge du Port
Éco-Refuges Plaisance: A peaceful retreat offering comfort and nature
Located on one of the most peaceful sites in Havre-Aubert, in the southern part of the archipelago, Éco-Refuges Plaisance offers an immersive experience. Guests can choose from 4 fully equipped mini wooden cabins, each with its own distinct character. For an even more relaxing stay, you can also book a time slot to enjoy the hot tub and sauna.
Find out more about Éco-Refuges Plaisance
Discovering the Islands by hiking the Sentiers Entre Vents et Marées trail network
Created thanks to the efforts of a group of local hikers who were inspired by their experiences on the Camino de Santiago, the longest hiking network on the Islands is celebrating its seventh anniversary this year. Providing a physical, cultural and spiritual experience, these marked trails developed and maintained by a team of dedicated volunteers offer a complete tour of the archipelago along beach trails as well as dirt and paved roads. This unforgettable hike of over 200 km (125 mi.) is divided into 13 sections ranging from intermediate to difficult.
Find out more about the Sentiers Entre Vents et Marées trail network