By the beauty of its scenery, the diversity of its activities and the warm smile of its inhabitants, Charlevoix has everything to charm its visitors. Whether it be for a rejuvenating stay in nature or to fill up on sporty activities and good food, you will definitely find something to suit your interests in Charlevoix. As you start planning your next stay, here are 5 spots to add to your itinerary for a reenergizing trip to Charlevoix during the winter time.
Via Ferrata – Projet Vertical
Planted on the Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu’s imposing rock wall all year round, this 500 meter via ferrata by Projet Vertical will no doubt provide you with thrills and body aches! The activity starts at the Projet Vertical office, on the ground floor of the luxurious hotel. Here, you will meet your guide for the afternoon. On our beautiful winter afternoon, we had the pleasure of meeting Brandon, our knowledgeable guide who instantly made us feel at ease with his larger-than-life smile and confident look. After slipping into your protective equipment, you will head out and walk for about 10 minutes to the start of the rope course. After your guide has gone through the safety briefing and instructions, you will hook on to the continuous life line. Once your carabiner is hooked on, you will never need to unhook it, ensuring your safety all through the course. It’s now time for your arm workout! Moving through the course while admiring the magnificent views on the St. Lawrence River, you’ll have to use all your upper body strength to keep moving forward. If you love outdoor activities and great views, La Charlevoix’s via ferrata is definitely an activity you shouldn’t miss out on.
Photo : Yasmeen Ghanavi
Auberge La Marmite
After all your physical efforts of the afternoon, it’s time for a treat! The charming 45 seat restaurant in Auberge La Marmite offers a menu of dishes prepared with care and a meticulously chosen list of natural wines. Here, products from the Charlevoix terroir are honored. On top of the beautiful view of the St. Lawrence River you will get from the dining room, the food is incredible! The service at Auberge La Marmite is impeccable and the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. Not sure what to order? Ask the friendly service staff!
Menaud
If what has been attracting customers to Menaud’s products for the past few years is the brewery and distillery’s simple and minimalist branding, what keeps them coming back is the quality of said products. Behind the striking brand image, Menaud offers refined beers and spirits concocted with ingredients from Charlevoix’s terroir. As soon as you enter the tasting room, located in the industrial sector of Clermont, you can feel the warmth of the humans that greet you. First time trying Menaud’s products? Try out one of their sampling platters where you’ll discover a variety of the beers, they have on tap as well as their famous gin and vodka. Don’t forget to get a few souvenirs on your way out!
Mont Grand-Fonds
With its 140 km of trails, Mont Grand-Fonds is a slice of paradise for cross-country skiers. Many different loops ranging between one and 24 km are possible, making this ski center an ideal spot to get back on your skis, no matter your level of experience. Heated shelters can be found along the way, allowing you to warm up while you take a little break from skiing. With their spectacular viewpoints on the surrounding mountains, their huge pine trees and impressive amount of snow, the Mont Grand-Fonds trails offer a glimpse of the immensity of Charlevoix’s territory.
Photo : Samuel Dowal-Asselin
Boulangerie Pains d’exclamation!
Much more than an artisanal bakery, Pains d’exclamation! is a cozy place to gather with friends and family in La Malbaie. As soon as you step foot in the bakery, you will feel the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of this favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. The smell of coffee and freshly baked bread will make it hard to resist getting one of everything! Let yourself be tempted by one of their grilled cheese sandwiches made with local cheeses, a hearty salad or a delicious pastry.
