Sharing is caring!

In this article, we’ll uncover all the best things to do in Charlevoix, one of the most beautiful regions in Quebec. With beautiful mountains, the Saguenay and St-Laurence Rivers, national parks, marine reserves and so much more, there are many amazing things to do in Charlevoix, Quebec.

If you’re here, it means you’re planning to visit the beautiful Charlevoix region in Quebec. First off, congratulations! You’ve chosen to visit one of the province’s most picturesque and unique regions. A choice you won’t soon regret!

As you read more, you’ll realize all the reasons that make Charlevoix such a wonderful place to discover in Quebec. There’s really something for everyone, and whether you visit in the summer or the winter, you’ll find plenty of unique activities to do.

From hikes to spas, thrilling outdoor activities, immersing yourself in nature and eating to your heart’s content, Charlevoix is a little slice of paradise in Quebec. It’s quite different than some of the other popular regions in Quebec like Outaouais, the Eastern Townships or Saguenay. Just like each of those places has something unique to offer, so does Charlevoix.

In this article, we’ll go over some of the best things to do in Charlevoix, where to eat, where to stay and everything else you need to know to have an amazing road trip to one of Quebec’s most beautiful places.

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For more information, please see our disclaimer here. We take all the efforts necessary to ensure the information included in this post is accurate, correct and current, sometimes, things just change! Travel information like opening hours, business operations and prices may change. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated, please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers. Cheers!

A little bit about Charlevoix, a picturesque region in Quebec

Before we get into all the best things to do in Charlevoix and all the other details to help you plan your trip, let’s talk about Charlevoix and what makes this region in Quebec so amazing. Because trust us, there are a ton of reasons!

Located about 4-5 hours north-east from Montreal, and about 1.5 hours from Quebec City, Charlevoix is a captivating and stunning region in the province of Quebec. It’s well worth the trip as the winding roads and beautiful views make it one of the most scenic routes to drive in Quebec.

The natural landscape in Charlevoix

Charlevoix is situated on the northern shore of the St. Lawrence River. It’s known for its breathtaking landscapes – rolling hills along the coast, towering cliffs, lush valleys sprinkled with charming villages and expansive forests. One of the most notable features is the impact crater of the Charlevoix Meteorite, which contributes to the area’s distinctive landscape. You can find traces of this all over the area.

It’s no surprise that Charlevoix is home to two amazing national parks (some of our favorites) as well as a few regional parks. We’ll get into the details later, but add the Parc national des Grands-Jardins, Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie and the Parc régional Mont Grands-Fonds to your bucketlist. The national parks are great for hiking, biking, camping and checking out the wildlife. Mont Grands-Fonds is also great for hikes in the summer, and perfect for skiing in the winter.

In fact, the stunning hills of Charlevoix are home to Quebec’s tallest ski resort: Le Massif de Charlevoix. Which is also home to the only Club Med in Quebec. More to come on that later!

Beyond the stunning mountains, Charlevoix shares a coast with the St. Lawrence River, making it perfect for kayaking, canoeing, SUPing and enjoying the beautiful beaches in the area.

The cultural scene in Charlevoix

Although the scenery in Charlevoix is stunning, there’s so much more to the region than just its beautiful looks. Charlevoix has a vibrant artistic community as well. Painters, writers and other creatives have always gravitated to this unique location in Quebec.

The Charlevoix School of Art, founded by famed painter Clarence Gagnon, has played a significant role in fostering artistic expression in the region. In many of the towns in Charlevoix, you’ll find various galleries, studios, and craft shops that showcase the work of local artisans.

Above the arts, in recent years, Charlevoix has also become a culinary hub. A place teaming with local producers and restaurants. For foodies, it’s such a great place to discover! One of the biggest movements in the culinary world here is the farm-to-table dining experience. What’s even better is that restaurants support the local producers and growers, so when you eat in Charlevoix, most of the food comes from the region. We love that!

The 13 best things to do in Charlevoix all year round

Summer or winter, there’s a ton to do in Charlevoix, regardless of what you’re into or what your budget is. From hikes to lounging on beaches, foraging in the forests, whale watching, checking out waterfalls and more – get ready for a great trip!

Charlevoix is a captivating destination because of its natural beauty, artistic heritage, and welcoming atmosphere. Let’s take a look at all the things you can do in Charlevoix, no matter the season.

We’ll break the activities down per season, as it’s the easiest way to help you organize your trip. However, some of these things can be done year-round.

And as always, feel free to take this list and make it your own. Charlevoix is a place in Quebec you can go back to time and time again. So don’t feel the urge to cram all these activities in a short timeframe. Instead, take your time and enjoy each of these things while you’re there, and then, plan to visit the region again!

What to do all year in Charlevoix

Here is the list of things you can do all year round in Charlevoix from hiking to foraging to town-hopping and more.

1. Learn about the forest and all its riches with Forêt Gourmande

We’ll start off with one of the most enlightening and fun activities we’ve done in a long time. We went on a discovery hike and drink-making workshop with Forêt Gourmande, right at the foot of the Massif de Charlevoix.

Forêt Gourmande is a great local company that offers hikes and workshops that teach you all about how to identify and cook with local ingredients from the forest. They have an open-air museum and little shop that is located at the bottom of the Massif, just at the chairlifts. But they are so much more than that!

If you want to learn about the riches of our forest and find a new reason to protect our planet, this is it! Forêt Gourmande will create a new love for our Quebec forests and everything they give us. Best of all, it connects you even more to the local products.

We went on a 1-hour hike in the nearby forest where Kathy, the owner of Forêt Gourmande, showed us a plethora of plants, trees and mushrooms that grow in the forests of Le Massif. As we walked around, we stopped every few feet to learn about something new. Sometimes, it was a plant we had never heard of. Other times, it was trees that we have always seen, but never knew we could enjoy. We were surprised to learn that it’s possible to make syrups from spruce and fir trees.

As we walked around, Kathy would tell us about these plants, how to identify them and how to consume them. We learned about different flowers and their medicinal properties. We got to taste some delicious syrups that she sells in her store. We had a chaga mushroom drink as we hung out by the little falls in the forest. We even got to taste some of the fruits and nuts straight from the trees.

After our walk, we headed back to her shop where we were able to make some mocktails from the ingredients of the forest. We created a gin-type cocktail with pickled capers and sumac powder from the shop. Luckily, many of the recipes using these ingredients can be found on the Forêt Gourmande blog. To say that these drinks were delicious is an understatement.

To say that this was a unique experience is also an understatement! This was such a grounding, humbling and enlightening experience we hope you take the time to enjoy. Best of all, you can buy some of the products in her shop and bring them home to enjoy when you’re back! The best kind of souvenirs!

If you’re looking to spend a great 1.5-2 hours learning more about the plants in Charlevoix and how to use them, this is the place for you. It’s really a unique experience in Charlevoix that gives you a whole new appreciation for our planet. And it’s something that can be done in the summer or the winter, which is great because you’ll learn about different plants each time.

Official website: foretgourmande.ca
Opening hours: Visits take place on Saturdays and Sundays, at 10 am or 2 pm. The office hours are Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm
Location: Massif de Charlevoix, Chalet de la base. 1350, rue Principale, Petite-Rivière-St-François, Québec, G0A 2L0
Cost: Varies between $45 and $55, depending on the tour
Buy your tickets here

2. Go hiking in the many parks of Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a mountainous region and there are so many amazing hiking trails all over the area. From easy family-friendly hikes to one of the hardest peaks to climb in the province, Charlevoix has it all!

It’s home to 2 national parks, many regional parks, a ZEC, a marine park and so much more. Here are the best parks to explore and hike in. Most of the trails are open year-round, but we recommend checking before going. With fast-changing conditions in the area, some hikes may not be accessible in the winter or during the spring thaw.

1. Check out the trails in the Parc Mont Grands-Fonds

The Parc du Mont Grands-Fonds is known as a great ski location. but what most people don’t know is that it’s also a great mountain to hike in the summertime. With a summit altitude of 735 meters and a 355 m vertical drop, the regional park of Mont Grands-Fonds offers some incredible views of the river and the Laurentian mountain range.

The regional park is located about 15 minutes away from the heart of La Malbaie. It offers 4 different hiking trails of varying difficulty:

• La Sommet is an intermediate leval hike that takes you through the forest and ends at the Lac Gravel lookout. It can be combined with the La Trappeur loop or the La Familiale which is an quicker way to get back.
• La Ti-Bé takes you up the mountain directly by way of the alpine ski trail. It also ends at the Lac Gravel lookout.
• La Trappeur is a more challenging forest trail and a bit more technical. It can be combined with La Sommet, or done as a unique trail.
• La Promenade Desjardins is a family-friendly hike. It’s a 4km loop with very little elevation gain. It takes you to the refuge chez Jules.

What’s great about this park is that your dog can join you on a leash. And with these 4 trails, you have amazing views and a great place to spend the day.

Make sure you bring plenty of snacks and water with you on the trails. And as always, pick up your trash and bring it back home. It’s important we all work together to keep our parks clean and beautiful for others to enjoy!

Official website: montgrandfonds.com
Opening hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 om
Location: 1000 Chemin des Loisirs, La Malbaie (Québec) G5A 1Y8
Cost: Free for winter ski members. $9.25 for daily entrance for adults. $45 for a season pass.

2. Explore the lesser-known ZEC des Martres

The Zec des Martres is probably one of our favorite parks to visit. It’s home to some iconic Charlevoix hikes, like the Mont du Dôme. And it’s a lot less visited than the nearby SEPAQ national parks.

ZECs are different than the national parks in Quebec. And Réseau ZEC has a ton of parks all over the province. The acronym ZEC actually from its French definition whic is ‘zone d’exploitation contrôlée’ or controlled exploitation zone. Basically, on these lands, people are allowed to hunt and fish if they acquire permits. In SEPAQ parks, you’re not able to do these things, only to enjoy nature!

The ZEC des Martres is a beautiful park with many hiking trails. The hiking trails are now a part of the Traversée de Charlevoix association. So entrances are a bit tricky. You have to pay your parking at the ZEC, but the entrance to the hikes at the Traversée. It seems complicated, but it’s not quite so hard.

As we mentioned, the most famous hike is the Mont du Dôme. This is a 7.8 km intermediate loop that has spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the St. Lawrence estuary. But there are plenty of other hikes to choose from. One of our other favorites is the Sentier des sommets (pic de l’aigle), which is a 12-km loop that is an intermediate trail.

There are so many different trails in this park that are worth hiking. Some are harder with longer trails and big elevation gains while others are shorter and easier. Either way, we recommend you take the time to hike these trails. They’re a lot less busy than the trails in the national parks.

Official website: ZEC des Martres & Traversée de Charlevoix
Opening hours: Since the trails are a part of a park where you can camp, they are open all the time.
Location: 2695 route 381 C.P. 893, St-Urbain-de-Charlevoix, G0A 4K0
Cost: Varies depending on what you’re looking to do. For the hikes, it’s a voluntary contribution of $5 pp. Parking at the ZEC is about $15.

3. Hike the trails of the Grands-Jardins national park

We might sound like broken records but it’s simply because the landscape is so stunning in Charlevoix, that all the parks here are some of our favorite parks in Quebec. So yes, the Grand Jardins National Park is another must if you’re in the area and you love to hike. Again, there are plenty of trails to choose from that vary in length, elevation gain and difficulty.

Here are some of the trails we’ve hiked (and loved) in this park:

• Mont du Lac-des-Cygnes Trail is one of the most popular trails in the park. If you want to hike it, start early. This trail is a bunch of switch-backs on a very well-maintained path and ends with climbing a ton of stairs. At the top, you’ll get an impressive view of the Charlevoix Crater (981 m) and on the Laurentian mountains. It’s a 8.6 km trail and it goes round-trip. The hike should take about 4 hours. If you have the time and energy, we recommend combining this with the next hike.
• Le Pioui Trail is a rustic trail that goes through the forest and up a few of the summits in the park. It’s such a fun trail! It starts off rough with a sustained ascent, but the views are totally worth it. In fact, as you’re climbing up to the summit, don’t forget to turn around and take the view in. It’s best to follow the route in the direction suggested on the map. We recommend adding the additional 1.2 km to your trip and heading to the summit of Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes. It’s easier to descend that way (and much more fun to hike up the Pioui than the Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes. this is a 10.4 km loop at the summit that will take 5 hours. Add another hour if you’re doing the Lac-des-Cygnes trail too.
• La Chouenne Trail is an easier hike with impressive views. It’s one of those low-effort-high-payoff hikes we love so much! The trail zigzags through the forest (it’s a very well-maintained path) and heads up to the 730 m high summit. At the top, you’ll get stunning views on the valley and on the face of Mont du Gros-Bras. Dogs are allowed on this trail. The best time to hike this trail is at sunrise. Sunset is also quite impressive, but the sun hides behind the mountains quite early.
• Le Gros-Pin Trail is great for families. It’s basically a stroll in the forest. You’ll walk amongst the tall poplar trees, going around a large alpine lake. You can hear the stream all throughout your hike. This 1.2 km loop will take about 1 hour to hike. You can slow things down as you look for woodpeckers or other animals. Dogs are allowed on this trail.
• Du Brûlé Trail is another rustic trail. It’s located in the Arthabaska sector. It’s a bit of an odd trail as you can really see the parts of the forest that were affected by the forest fires. You have a gentle climb to the top of the hills of the Arthabaska sector, and the rest of the trail zigzags through the forest. It’s a nice hike, but if you’re not in this sector, we don’t recommend it that much. The 10.2 km loop should take about 4.5 hours to complete.

Official website: sepaq.com
Opening hours: The trails are open within reasonable hiking hours, but the visitor centers have varying hours of operation, depending on the season. You can view the opening hours here.
Location: The visitor centers are located here: Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes Visitors Centre: Route 381, at km 21 (through Saint-Urbain or La Baie) & Arthabaska Discovery and Visitors Centre: Route 381(through Saint-Urbain or La Baie), drive 7.5 km on Route 60, turn left and drive for 1 km.
Cost: $9.55 for daily access or you can purchase an annual card
Buy your tickets here

4. Discover the views in the Hautes-gorges de la rivière Malbaie national Park

Another amazing place to hike in Charlevoix is the Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park. Located past La Malbaie, this parc is another natural gem. This park is great for cyclists as well as many of the trails are reserved for bikers.

Some of the most beautiful hikes here are:

• Le Belvédère is an easy 0.4 km stroll that takes you up to the viewpoint near the Le Draveur Visitors Centre. Without putting in too much effort, you gain access to lookout where you have a beautiful view of the valley.
• Le Pied-des-Sommets is another easy trail that takes you from the visitor center to a lookout. Dogs are allowed on this trail that leads to a belvedere where you can check out Mount Félix-Antoine Savard overlooking the dam.
• L’Érablière is a nice 2.5 km walk with lovely views without too much elevation. It’s not a long hike, so it’s perfect for families or those who want to go for a nice stroll in the forest.
• L’Acropole des draveurs is probably one of the most famous hikes in Charlevoix. It’s almost like a right of passage for avid hikers. This difficult trail is 11.2 km long and will take around 4 to 6 hours to complete. It takes you through a forest to get to the first summit. There, you have a spectacular view of the Malbaie River valley and the surrounding peaks. We have never done this trail, because each time we’ve been, the weather has chosen not to cooperate with us. If the weather is rainy or windy, the trail is closed. And often, even if conditions on the ground are good, they may be very different at the peak. This is a challenging hike that requires good physical fitness and should only be done if you’re well-prepared. bring comfortable hiking shoes, 2 liters of drinking water per person and dress in layers. It’s usually 5-10°C colder at the summit. Departures are authorized only between sunrise and 2 p.m. (between sunrise and noon from September 1st). You have to leave the peak no later than 3 hours before sunset, a park warden will bring up the rear.

Official website: sepaq.com
Opening hours: The trails are open within reasonable hiking hours, but the visitor centers have varying hours of operation, depending on the season. You can check the hours of operation here.
Location: You can get there on Route 138 via the village of Saint-Aimé-des-Lacs.
Cost: $9.55 for daily access or you can purchase an annual card
Buy your tickets here

5. Do the 5 Summits Challenge for the ultimate hiking challenge

If you’re into a big challenge and in Charlevoix for a few days, you can choose to do the 5 Summits Challenge. This series of hikes is the ultimate way to get bragging rights as an avid hiker.

Every year, 5 different summits are chosen to be a part of the challenge. Participants have from June to October to complete their 5 hikes. In 2023, the hikes are the Yeti (Le Riverain Trail in the Hautes‑Gorges-de-la-Rivière‑Malbaie National Park), Mont Grand-Fonds, Cap Gribane, the Mont-du-Dôme in the ZEC des Martres and Les Palissades.

You have to sign up for the challenge on their website. Once you climb the summits, you have to take a selfie at the top and solve the riddles that are posted on the signs. Once you submit your answers and pictures, you can gain access to the Mystery Mountain. All this for bragging rights, and a few very cool prizes.

3. Check out the Marine Interpretation Center

Since Charlevoix is located on the coast of the St. Lawrence River, there is a lot of marine activity going on. As much as the Côte-Nord is known for having whales and belugas, Charlevoix is just as famous for it.

If you want to learn more about the incredible marine life in Charlevoix, check out the Pointe-Noire Interpretation & Observation Center. Located only 1 km before getting to the ferry to Tadoussac, the Pointe-Noire Centre is a great place to spend some time.

From the observation deck, you can look out to the St. Lawrence in search of belugas and whales. Inside, you can learn about the different marine mammals that live in the waters here.

Overall, it’s a great place to learn more about the local marine life as well as contribute to the conservation efforts in place.

Official website: parcmarin.qc.ca & parks.canada.ca
Opening hours: Since whale watching is not done year-round, the center only operates from mid-June to early October. Make sure you check their website before going.
Location: Route 138, 1 km away from the Tadoussac–Baie-Sainte-Catherine ferry
Cost: Free for youth. $6.25 for adults

4. Go town-hopping in the Charlevoix region

The whole area of Charlevoix is really beautiful, with so many amazing things to see and do. One of those things is going from town to town and checking out the scene in each place. Every town has its own little vibe going on. Plus, the route to get from one place to the next is often very scenic.

You can drive along the coast, or you can choose to take the smaller in-land routes. Either way, as they always say, it’s about the journey rather than the destination, and in this case, they are both beautiful.

Baie-Saint-Paul, in the heart of Charlevoix

No visit to Charlevoix is complete without stopping in Baie-Saint-Paul. This charming and artistic town is known for its picturesque setting and thriving artist community. The cultural scene here is so vibrant. It’s also the birthplace of the famous Cirque du Soleil. It’s also where famous painter Clarence Gagnon founded the renowned Charlevoix School of Art. Walking down the main road, you’ll find plenty of art galleries and boutiques selling handcrafted goods, paintings and different art pieces. Beyond the cultural scene here, the town itself is super cute. The architecture is characterized by historic buildings, colorful houses, and charming streets.

La Malbaie, a hub for tourism

La Malbaie is Charlevoix’s largest town. It’s still charming and offers a ton of historic sites to visit. In fact, La Malbaie’s history dates back to the early colonial period. In town, you can still find many historic buildings and landmarks, including charming churches, heritage homes, and old-world architecture. Again, this town is also nestled in a picturesque setting with rolling hills, forests, and the majestic St. Lawrence River.

Other towns to explore in Charlevoix

Saint-Siméon – This beautiful town is often the gateway to Charlevoix for those who take the ferry from the south shore of the St. Lawrence. it has a very slow pace of life and a peaceful atmosphere.

Saint-Irénée – Known for its beautiful beach, this town is super cute. With stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding mountains. If you’re looking for charming B&Bs and inns, this is the place. Plus, lounging on the beach here is a must!

Les Éboulements – This area is characterized by rolling hills and lush landscapes. It’s a great place for hiking, cycling, and exploring the rural beauty of Charlevoix. Don’t miss the picturesque village church and the unique art installations scattered throughout the landscape.

5. Visit local producers to get a taste of Charlevoix

We already mentioned Forêt Gourmande, and how you can have a taste of all the yummy things that grow in Charlevoix’s forests. But there are so many other producers that are worth checking out too! From mushrooms to mead to ciders, wines, nuts and beyond, there are so many tasty treats to try in the Charlevoix region.

Here’s a short list of local Charlevoix producers that are worth checking out:

• Champignons Charlevoix: It’s no surprise that we love mushrooms. Our plant-based diet would be so boring without mushrooms. That’s why we were so excited to discover Champignons Charlevoix. Located in La Malbaie, this local producer has a warehouse where they mainly grow oyster mushrooms. They also have a little shop where you can buy many other mushroom and mushroom-related products. They also do little workshops that show you how they grow their mushrooms. They are open from mid-May to mid-October, between 9:30 am & 3:30 pm daily. After mid-October, only the boutique is open.
• Hydromels Charlevoix: We love a good mead, and the ones from Hydromels Charlevoix don’t disappoint. Their products are home-grown and hand-crafted in Charlevoix. And they really care for the environment, which makes their brand even more appealing to us. They have a physical location in Baie-Saint-Paul, where you can go for tastings and cocktails. You can also request to visit their meadery.
• Microbrasserie Charlevoix: A trip to Charlevoix isn’t complete without having a local beer. Microbrasserie Charlevoix offers a great range of beers, and the best part is that you can buy them in most grocery stores in Quebec! While in Baie-Saint-Paul, stop by the Saint-Pub where you can try their delicious beers and have a bite too. If you’re a fan of sour beers, their Sour French Kiss is one of our favorites.

6. Drive the many routes of Charlevoix

You know we’re a big fan of road trips. And Charlevoix is a great place to drive around. Rolling hills, winding roads, coastal views. Everything you’ve ever dreamed of when you think of a scenic drive.

Luckily, there are a few routes you can take that are not only stunning but also have some fun attractions sprinkled along the way. These are the 3 main touristic routes in Charlevoix:

• Route des saveurs: Translated to the Flavors Trail, this drive will take you on a culinary trip all over Charlevoix. From Petite-Rivière-Saint-François to La Malbaie, via the Secteur des Montagnes, foodies can indulge all along this route. You can stop by the various local producers here, and try ciders, craft beer, fine cheeses, chocolates, meats and so much more.
• Route du Fleuve: This is another scenic coastal route that takes you along the St. Lawrence River. This 78 km drive stretches from Baie-Saint-Paul to La Malbaie, through Les Éboulements, Saint-Irénée and Isle-aux-Coudres. Don’t be afraid to stop at one of the beaches or viewpoints along the way. Soak in the beauty and revel in the smell of the ocean. There are a few different attractions along the way like the different art galleries, artisans, parks and beaches.
• Route des Montagnes: The Mountains Road is a stunning drive that takes you through some of Quebec’s most beautiful mountain ranges. Winding through national parks and charming villages, this route is picture-perfect, no matter how you look at it. For adventure lovers, this is the road to take. Stop in one of the national parks and go for a hike.

Whichever route you choose to drive down, enjoy it and make the best of your time on the road.

4 amazing activities to do in Charlevoix in the summer

The summers in Quebec are short, so we tend to make the best of them. If you’re in Charlevoix during the summer, you’re in luck because there are some amazing things to do from beach bumming to festivals to unique experiences.

Here are some of the best things to do in the summer in Charlevoix:

7. Check out the best beaches in Charlevoix

Since Charlevoix is located on the coast of the St. Lawrence river, there are plenty of beautiful beaches to lounge on in the warm summer months. The temperatures tend to climb beyond the 30 degrees C mark during the summer, and the water is always cold. But it’s refreshing and fun.

Saint-Irénée beach is probably the most famous beach in Charlevoix. This long stretch of white sand beach is located right off the main road. On weekends, there are plenty of people that come here to enjoy the weather. And on afternoons, you can see the famous Charlevoix train ride through. Expect cheering and whistles!

Cap-des-oies is another beautiful beach made of small pellets. It’s a much smaller beach than the latter, but it’s still beautiful. As you walk towards the big rocks, you can even spot belugas and seals. It’s a quiet beach, so if you’re looking to escape the crowds, it’s the perfect place for it.

8. Enjoy the Vol de l’oiseau mécanique experience at the Massif de Charlevoix in the summer

One of the newest additions to the Charlevoix landscape is the Vol de l’oiseau mécanique experience. Located at the Massif de Charlevoix, this is a light-immersion experience that takes you up the ski hill.

The experience starts when it gets dark, which in the summer can be anywhere from 8:30 to 9 pm. You walk through the different paths in the forests of the Massif, taking the ski lift up and down as lights and lasers are projected all over the forest to the sound of music and bird sound effects.

This is truly a unique experience that creates such a magical atmosphere all throughout the journey. The walks in the forest are calming, while the ride on the ski lifts are exhilarating and mesmerizing. The whole experience takes about 2 hours to complete, depending on how many people attend.

A word of warning, it gets very cold on the mountain and the ski lifts, we highly recommend wearing warm clothing (not just warm for the summer, but actually warm jackets and pants). The winds on the top of the mountain and on the ski lift are surprisingly frigid.

You do have access to the bathrooms at the ski resort, and there are water stations as well. So bring your reusable water bottle with you. The activity is family friendly, but not pet-friendly.

Make sure you book your tickets in advance as dates fill up very quickly.

• Official website: lemassif.com
• Location: La Massif de Charlevoix
• Cost: Between $19.25 to $43
• Buy your tickets here

9. Go whale watching in Charlevoix in the summer and fall

From May to October, the St. Lawrence River is home to whales and belugas. During these months, these large marine mammals migrate in these waters. This makes for some very entertaining days in Charlevoix.

There are many ways you can see the whales. As environmental defenders, our recommendation will always be to watch them from the shore. This way, you’re not adding any noise pollution with boats that hinder their communications with each other. The Pointe-Noire observation center is a great place for that.

Another option is to go on a kayak or canoe tour in the waters. Ideally, you should be comfortable rowing on the open waters, as currents tend to get strong and the waves can get choppy sometimes. Though there are plenty of tours available to take you on the water, and hopefully spot some whales and belugas.

The final option is to take a boat tour to see the whales. We don’t recommend this option as too many times, we’ve seen boats chasing whales and getting much closer than they need to. Plus, the noise from the engines really harms the whales ad their ways of communicating together.

Seeing whales so close to home is truly a unique experience and it’s a must if you’re in Charlevoix in the summer and fall.

10. Party at the Festif! de BSP, a Charlevoix summertime must

In mid-July, Baie-Saint-Paul is home to an inclusive festival that combines music, street performing arts and performers. Artists from all over come to this town in Charlevoix to perform at one of the many sites throughout the city.

What started out as a summer project between friends in 2009 has now turned into one of the largest festivals in the area. Over the course of a weekend, festival-goers at The Festif! have a chance to see more than 110 performers and attend 130 shows. The whole downtown area is transformed into one big festival scene.

If you’re planning on being in Charlevoix in mid-July, we highly recommend you stop by this unique festival. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Quebec culture, meet some amazing people, and experience an unforgettable musical moment.

Things to do in the winter in Charlevoix

The winter in Charlevoix is equally magical. There are so many amazing things to do in the colder months as these mountains become a playground for those looking to make the best of the tons of snow that fall in the region.

11. Ski the Massif de Charlevoix, Quebec’s tallest ski hill

For those who love to ski, Le Massif de Charlevoix is an absolute must. It’s the province’s tallest ski hill sitting at 2,220 feet. It opened back in 2002 and since, has undergone many transformations that make it one of the best resort areas in Quebec.

Although the Massif is a four-season resort, it truly comes alive in the winter. There are over 53 trails to choose from for all levels of skiers, from beginner to triple-black-diamond runs. The Massif has the highest vertical drop east of the Rockies.

If you’re an avid alpine skier or snowboarder or like to cross-country ski, The Massif is the place for you in the winter in Charlevoix.

12. Snowshoe on the trails of Charlevoix in the winter months

If you’d rather go up hills or trek through the forest, you’re in luck because Charlevoix is also home to some amazing snowshoe trails. Many of the parks we listed above are open year-round. In the winter months, you can either hike with spikes or snowshoes. Just make sure you check the conditions and rules before heading there.

There are also plenty of trails that have no (or little) elevation gain that you can also trek. You can check out the full list here.

13. Do all the crazy winter activities in Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a true winter wonderland! If skiing, snowshoeing or hiking are not your thing, there are plenty of other choices out there for you.

You can ice kayak or ice canoe. You can rent fat bikes and explore the trails this way. There are also options to go sledding, either by yourself or powered by dogs.

The options are endless, especially if you’re looking for adventure and to live a truly unique experience.

Where to eat in Charlevoix

We’ve already mentioned how Charlevoix has a wide array of producers and home-grown deliciousness. So it’s no surprise that there are amazing restaurants all over the region. Here are some of our favorite ones. As always, we’ve highlighted restaurants that offer plant-based options.

Auberge la Marmite, a staple in Charlevoix and its local dishes

Auberge la Marmite is a family-owned Inn and restaurant. Located on the shores of the St. Lawrence, this laid-back restaurant has an amazing tasting menu, as well as à la carte options for you.

As soon as you walk in, you’re welcomed by an attentive staff and a warm cozy atmosphere. With games available and plenty of cozy booth seating, you know you’re in for a very good meal.

The tasting menu can be paired with wine or enjoyed alone. The 3-course meal offers a tasty appetizer, a hearty meal and a delicious dessert. What makes this menu great is that most ingredients come from the Charlevoix region, if not, from Quebec. Even when describing the dishes, the staff makes sure to highlight the products so you know exactly what you’re enjoying.

While we were there in August, Carine had the leek mosaic, the carrot medley and sweet tofu with berries. Derek enjoyed the Arugula prosciutto salad, the steak and sugar pie. We both loved every bite of it!

The menu changes quite often at La Marmite, as it flows with the seasonal offering. but whenever you choose to go, summer or winter, we can promise that you’re in for a treat!

Buvette Gentille, the most recent addition to BSP’s main street

Opened recently, Buvette Gentille is a sister restaurant to Faux Bergers, a Charlevoix must. This wine bar has a great tapas menu, and to the surprise of absolutely no one, they also use mainly local Charelvoix ingredients.

This great little restaurant has limited seating inside and only a few seats outside, so if you want a spot, make sure you reserve ahead of time. They have 2 seatings, one at 5:30 and another at 8 pm.

Their menu also frequently changes as the seasons bring different produce. And since it’s tapas dishes, everything is perfect for sharing. Although their dishes are vegetable-forward, they do feature plenty of meat and fish. However, they’re very capable of making the dishes vegan or vegetarian.

Everything is truly delicious here, and since it’s located on the main street of Baie-Saint-Paul, you can enjoy your meal here, then head out for a stroll in town.

Pains d’Exclamation, a delicious bakery in La Malbaie

While you’re cruising down the coast of Charlevoix, make sure you stop in at Pains d’Exclamation. This renowned bakery has such a great offering. From breakfast to lunch straight to dessert, you always have something delicious to have here.

Their croissants, breads and sandwiches are all delicious. Their coffee is divine. And if you need to get some work done, their wifi is very strong.

Although most of their breads are vegan, the only meal they have that is plant-based is the végé-paté sandwich. For a homemade vegan pattie, it’s quite good. Plus, their terrasse is a great place to enjoy the summer sun while gazing at the coast.

Faux Bergers, a must in Charlevoix

As we say in French, Faux Bergers is an incontrounable. It’s a must when you’re in the region. This restaurant is famed for its farm-to-table approach, its amazing food and unforgettable atmosphere. Anyone we’ve spoke to who has been to the Faux Bergers has nothing but great things to say about it.

And we’re a little jelly. Because we’ve never been.

The thing with such a great restaurant is that they get booked up fast. Very fast. Months in advance. So if you’re planning on going to Charlevoix, the first thing you should do, even before you plan your itinerary, is to book this restaurant. Move your dates around if you need to, because if there’s a seat available at their table, you want to be there.

The food served at the Faux Bergers is vegetable-forward, however, they do feature plenty of meat options. However, we have checked with them, and they are able to accommodate vegans.

Where to stay in Charlevoix

The beautiful region of Charlevoix has some amazing places to stay. You can find your usual hotels like Le Germain, or the famous Fairmont Manoir Richelieu, but there are also plenty of unique accommodations available. And while you’re here, might as well immerse yourself completely in the atmosphere and rent a cute cabin. You can also choose to camp at the many national parks or private campgrounds in the area.

Hauts refuges, unique accommodations in Charlevoix

We had the absolute pleasure of staying in these unique cabins in the middle of the woods. The Hauts Refuges is a dream-become-reality for a young couple, Steve and Véronique, who left the outskirts of Montreal, to settle down in Charlevoix, and start their dream business.

These adult-size treehouses are absolutely stunning from the outside, and super cozy on the inside. Built by Steve and other workers, each cabin is unique in kind. They sleep between 2 and 6 people and have everything you need to be comfy. It’s glamping at its best.

Located in Les Éboulements, these 4-season tree-top cabins are the perfect place to stay when visiting Charlevoix. They’re halfway between Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie. All you have to bring is your sleeping bag, drinking water and your food, and you’re good to go!

Each cabin features a fire pit outside, hammocks and hanging chairs as well as a BBQ set. Inside, you have a kitchen with a sink, stovetop and a small fridge. All your cooking essentials are included, so all you have to bring are your ingredients. They also have a few books and games available. The bathrooms in Hauts Refuges are compost toilets located outside each cabin.

On the property, you have a few games, a chicken coop, a recently built common bathroom area with a running toilet, a shower and sink. You also have a few lounge chairs, picnic tables and hammocks located on the shores of the little stream that runs through the property. There are also plenty of hiking trails located right on the property.

If you’re looking for a cozy place to stay during your trip to Charlevoix, Hauts Refuges is a great place to call home for a few days. Since there is no network on the property, you can truly disconnect from everyday life, and reconnect with nature and your loved ones.

Rent a cabin, a great option while staying in Charlevoix

If you’re looking for a cozy cabin to stay in while you’re in Charlevoix, you’re in luck. There are so many of them all over the place. And they range from the very extravagant to the very cozy.

We’ve had the pleasure of staying in a few cabins in the area, and each time, we find one that is absolutely perfect. Some are great for couples while others are built for families, and some are great for a group of friends on a getaway together. Some feature a hot tub on their property, others will have a full spa on their property with a hot tub, steam room, cold shower and plunge bath.

Regardless of your budget and the number of people in the chalet, there’s a perfect one out there for you.

Everything you need to know about going to Charlevoix in Quebec

If you’re planning a getaway to Charlevoix, here’s what you need to know to have the best time yet. We’ll let you know when to go, how long to stay, where to stay and everything else to plan the best vacation in this picturesque region in Quebec.

When is the best time to visit Charlevoix, Quebec?

The best time to visit Charlevoix will depend on what you’d like to do during your trip. Because Charlevoix experiences all four seasons in a very distinct way, there’s always something to do, and it’s always a great trip.

The summer is warm and you can enjoy the mountains as much as the beaches. Because Charlevoix is located a little more to the north of the province, summer kicks in a bit later, in mid-June, until mid-September. While at the height of summer, the temperatures will be warm as much in the day as at night, you can expect temperatures to dip a little at night. Dressing in layers will be important.

The fall is perfect for those who want to experience the changing of the leaves. However, the window to see the colorful leaves is very small. Usually from mid-September to early October. Temperatures are a bit chillier but still comfortable.

The winter is perfect for all the fun snow activities you can do. And since winter is a bit longer in the north of Quebec, you can expect skiing from December to April. Expect cold temperatures and sometimes rough driving conditions. There’s a lot of snow and ice that falls in the region, so make sure your car can handle it.

How long to stay in Charlevoix?

You can easily spend a whole week in Charlevoix Quebec and not get bored. With all the hikes to do, lounging on the beach, skiing, visiting art galleries, eating at the best restaurant, and trying the best local producers out. The list is truly endless.

However, if you have limited time to spend in Charlevoix, we recommend at least spending 3-4 nights in the area. Considering you need about 4-5 hours driving to and from Montreal, this is the right amount of time to get a good taste of the region.

What to pack for a trip to Charlevoix Quebec

Whether you’re coming to Charlevoix in the summer or winter, one rule will apply for dressing fo the region – dress in layers. The reason is simple – temperatures change very quickly here. The sun can be very warm, while you could be freezing in the shade. Having layers will help you deal with all the temperatures.

Although there are plenty of stores around, the selection is not always great in Charlevoix, so it’s better to come prepared. However, if you’re in a pinch, there are plenty of places that sell clothes, sporting goods, drug store essentials, groceries and more.

For your trip to Charlevoix, here’s what we recommend packing:

• A warmer jacket for nights
• Pants (even in the summer as mosquitos cann get really bad)
• Quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothes for hikes or skiing
• Hiking shoes
• Walking shoes or sneakers
• Sandals for the summer months and glamping or camping locations with shared showers
• Undergarments
• Toiletries

The 13 best things to do in Charlevoix, Quebec

There you have it! All the best things to do in Charlevoix, and all the details you need to have the absolute best time ever. Whether you’re going in the summer, fall or winter, there’s something for everyone to do here.

So here’s a quick recap of all the best activities in Charlevoix, one of our favorite places in Quebec:

1. Learn about the forest and all its riches with Forêt Gourmande
2. Go hiking in the many parks of Charlevoix
3. Check out the Marine Interpretation Center
4. Go town-hopping around the Charlevoix region
5. Visit local producers
6. Drive the many scenic routes
7. Check out the best beaches in Charlevoix
8. Vol de l’oiseau mécanique
9. Go whale watching – May to October
10. Party at the Festif de BSP
11. Ski at the Massif de Charlevoix
12. Snowshoe on the trails
13. Do all the crazy winter activities

Let us know in the comments what you’re looking forward to doing. Are you planning on going in the summer or winter? Are there other activities you’d love to do here?

---

Thank you so much for reading the article all the way through!

We put a lot of time and effort into the content we create. Please like, comment and share – every action on your part helps us out tremendously and is very appreciated.

You can also help us by pinning this article for others to find.

---