Treating yourself to a family winter vacation with children, especially young children, can be a challenge, but you just have to know where to go! In Charlevoix, several places and activities are not only accessible to toddlers, they’re just as fun for parents. Here are some suggestions for a perfect winter getaway for your entire family.
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
First stop: Baie-Saint-Paul
Starting with a snack at the Mousse Café is perfect. This playful café is expressly designed to welcome families and let the children have fun. Dozens of board games are available to customers and the varied menu appeals to small appetites and even the pickiest eaters!
After lunch, close to the café, behind Maison Mère Baie-Saint-Paul, a nice walk along the Chemin des Sœurs is a must. The path, with no elevation, is very accessible, even for strollers. You can observe the herd of Highland cows from the nest-door neighbour, Le Germain Charlevoix Hotel & Spa.
For more active adventurers, Camping Le Genévrier offers great facilities for tube sliding and other winter sports.
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
Second stop: Isle-aux-Coudres
Visiting Isle-aux-Coudres in winter starts with a free and safe cruise on the St. Lawrence River, navigating through the ice towards an exceptional panorama. Arriving at your destination, 23 kilometres of happiness await you. Stock up on famous pâtés croches, meat-filled pastries from Boulangerie Bouchard, fresh brioches from Épicerie Chez Paul and tasty desserts from Aux Fruits du Biscuitier de la Cidrerie and Vergers Pedneault, then head for the Espace Patrimoine Canot à Glace – Les Traverseux, where young and old can discover the history and artifacts related to the fascinating ice canoe.
Photo : Joannie Fillion
Photo : André-Olivier Lyra
Third stop: Les Éboulements
On the breathtaking Route du Fleuve, a stop at Les Éboulements is a guaranteed pleasure. La Chocolaterie du Village is a true paradise for a sweet tooth. There are dozens of varieties of refined artisanal chocolates in addition to various homemade products that will delight young and old alike.
On this same road, still at Les Éboulements, the charming residents of Alpagas Charlevoix welcome visitors all year round. You can observe the alpacas for free in front of the shop.
Photo : Louis Laliberté
Fourth stop: La Malbaie
For a memorable and peaceful day outdoors with young children, Centre de plein air Les Sources Joyeuses is the place to visit. Skating, sliding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking are easy and fun for the little ones.
On the cultural side, the Musée de Charlevoix, with its popular art showcase, is very accessible to children. Interactive activities are often available for young visitors.
Still in the La Malbaie sector, you should know that the famous Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu is also renowned for welcoming families. Its hiking trails, ice fishing and various occasional activities during the winter have something to amuse everyone.
For hassle-free accommodations
Several hotels, bed and breakfasts, inns, shelters and chalets offer interesting group packages.
This winter, discover Charlevoix as a family!