Spring tends to tease us with magnificent balmy days as mild temperatures encourage outdoor family fun and activities. A thin but sufficient snow cover says there’s lots to do and discover in the region.
Here are the top 10 unique experiences you can enjoy between the river and the mountains, with or without the snow!
Photo : Katabatik - Aventure dans Charlevoix
Winter sea kayaking: the experience of a lifetime
After a few years on hiatus, this legendary activity is back, offered by Katabatik – Aventure dans Charlevoix in the La Malbaie sector. Unique to Québec, this guided outing tackles the waters and ice of the St. Lawrence River in complete safety. An extraordinary combination of tranquility and powerful emotions!
Photo : Matt Wider - Adventures Cities
Héli-Charlevoix: fly over the most beautiful territories
An original and amazing exploration by helicopter! The Héli-Charlevoix company, based in Baie-Saint-Paul, offers excursions for all types of budgets and experiences. The most affordable package is the introductory tour. A perfect option for families, it covers 20 kilometers through the hills of the Baie-Saint-Paul sector, flying over the Gouffre River on the return. Breathtaking!
Photo : Go-Xplore
The Grande Tyrolienne du Manoir Richelieu: a spectacular view at 50 km/h
Ideal for the whole family, this incredible flight launches from the roof of the famous Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu in La Malbaie, a collaboration with the local company Projet Vertical, experts in via ferrata, zip lining and climbing. After being interrupted by the very cold period, this adventure activity returns in March (see variable schedule online).
Photo : Les Montagnards de Charlevoix
Horseback riding for everyone: a fun way to discover the landscape
Set off from the Baie-Saint-Paul sector to discover the stunning landscapes of Charlevoix on horseback or in a sleigh pulled by a team of magnificent animals. Les Montagnards de Charlevoix is a family business offering outings adapted to all levels of riding experience in an environment that’s healthy for the animals.
Photo : André-Olivier Lyra
Walk with the alpacas
Discover a new universe at Alpagas Charlevoix and enjoy the beauty of these endearing animals with their unique personalities. Located in Les Éboulements, the company intrioduces visitors to their charming breeding stock. Get up close with these fascinating animals and even walk alongside them during a memorable alpa-trekking experience on the establishment’s private land. Another WOW for your entire family!
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
La Route du Fleuve and Domaine Forget de Charlevoix: slow travel at its best
Route 362 is one of the country’s most beautiful roadways. Passing through Baie-Saint-Paul, La Malbaie, Les Éboulements, Saint-Irénée and Isle-aux-Coudres, it extends over 78 kilometers, featuring art, history and the great outdoors all along the way.
In Saint-Irénée, the Domaine Forget de Charlevoix is a must-see with its outdoor artworks, its year-round interactive tour and its short walking trails. Access to the site is free and offers the added bonus of a magnificent view over the St. Lawrence River.
Photo : Go-Xplore
Cité Mémoire Charlevoix: a magical evening stroll illuminated by history
With its artistic, playful and poetic paintings in the heart of the Pointe-au-Pic sector’s magnificent natural settings, Cité Mémoire Charlevoix features different historical characters played by well-known artists and local personalities. From dusk until 11 pm every evening (until March 16, then Fridays and Saturdays after this date), this is the perfect excuse to go for an evening walk like no other. And this activity is bilingual and free.
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
Outdoor spas: relaxation at its best
Because a getaway equals rejuvenation (at least, we hope so!), here’s a safe bet for a great day. Charlevoix’s spas are excellent options, no matter the weather. You can find them at the Fairmont Manoir Richelieu (La Malbaie), the Marion and the O’Quartz du Petit Manoir du Casino, or at the Hotel & Spa Le Germain Charlevoix (Baie-Saint-Paul), where they offer outdoor activities on their sites to enhance your relaxation!
Photo : Jean-Sébastien Chartier-Plante
Spring skiing: a real treat
Hitting the slopes under radiant sunshine and above-zero temperatures… that’s winter magic! Fun and exciting, spring skiing is super popular with families, whether beginners or advanced. Mont Grand-Fonds and Le Massif de Charlevoix are two excellent destinations where quality infrastructure, an amazing atmosphere and magnificent views await you.
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
Agritourism businesses, art galleries and indoor activities
Beyond its mythical landscapes, Charlevoix stands out with its cultural wealth and local gastronomy. The heights of happiness, these establishments offer a thousand discoveries and welcome you all year round.
Here are some essentials:
- Centre de l’Émeu de Charlevoix (Baie-Saint-Paul)
- Laiterie Charlevoix (Baie-Saint-Paul)
- Famille Migneron de Charlevoix (Baie-Saint-Paul)
- Biscuiterie Chez Léon & Lily (Saint-Irénée)
- Hydromel Charlevoix (Baie-Saint-Paul)
- Cidrerie et Vergers Pedneault (Isle-aux-Coudres, Baie-Saint-Paul)
- Musée de Charlevoix (La Malbaie)
- Musée d’art contemporain de Baie-Saint-Paul (Baie-Saint-Paul)
- L’Île Mystérieuse (La Malbaie)
