It’s well known that Charlevoix is where you find little and big gems in winter, in terms of the outdoors and activities, as well as breathtaking landscapes and the art of living. Here are the three essential items with the power to make all the difference during your stay in the region.
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
A good camera with portable charger
Whether you use a traditional camera or a cell phone with powerful camera functions, you have to make sure you can capture all the beauty that awaits you during a winter trip to Charlevoix. Remember: camera batteries discharge more quickly in cold weather, so it’s smart to bring a portable charger, which is usually connected with a USB cable. So, no matter where you are at frigid temperatures, there’s no chance that your equipment will fail!
Essential photo subjects
Charlevoix is located between the river and the mountains, the ice on the river and the white mountainsides always steal the show in front of the camera! We suggest going to the Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix, where a 10 km hike (12.5 km on cross-country skis) leads adventurers to the Abattis refuge and a breathtaking view. In La Malbaie, there are also a variety of magnificent viewpoints, whether via the promenade along the banks of the river or in the Pointe-au-Pic sector.
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
Well planned sportswear
The next essential step for experiencing the joys of winter in nature (Charlevoix is truly a winter paradise) dressing well is the key! Here are some tips to avoid getting too cold… or too hot!
Dress in layers
You don’t have to be an athlete to know the “onion skins” theory. That’s the idea behind the multi-layer clothing system recommended for outdoor sports and activities. Ideally, go with three layers, each with its purpose: a breathable base layer, an insulating and breathable middle layer, and a coat as a top layer (choose a coat with optional openings under the armpits to allow for ventilation during exercise). That’s how you protect yourself from wind, water and humidity, in addition to regulating your body temperature to assure you stay comfortable.
A breathable toque
An insulating and breathable toque is a real plus during outdoor activities. Breathability avoids having the urge to completely remove your tuque because it’s too hot, and thus risk catching a cold with your head exposed in the middle of winter! It can also be worn under a helmet when skiing or snowboarding, for example. Bring an extra toque for after the activity, when your body cools down slowly. A warm, dry toque will keep you warm and comfortable.
Always have a pair of dry socks handy
Prevent frozen feet!
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
Five dream places for your outdoor winter adventure:
- The national parks of Charlevoix: the Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park and the Grands-Jardins National Park;
- ÖBois Charlevoix, Saint-Siméon (cross-country skiing, fat bike, snowmobile, snowshoeing)
- Les Traverseux – Canot à Glace Charlevoix, Isle-aux-Coudres (ice canoe, snowshoe, fat bike)
- Ski mountains: *Le Massif de Charlevoix and **Mont Grand-Fonds (downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, alpine hiking, sledding*, gondola*, snowmobile relay**)
- Palissades de Charlevoix (snowshoeing, ski-snowshoeing, via ferrata).
Photo : Tourisme Charlevoix
A comfortable backpack
Whether for your outdoor walks or to explore the urban centres of Charlevoix’s municipalities, having a good backpack is essential. It allows you to bring the items mentioned above, and many others. Whether it’s foot warmers/hand warmers or a good insulated bottle to carry around water without it freezing (or even a good hot drink). What you must remember is that by being well prepared, you can take full advantage of the joys of winter in Charlevoix!
