VLAD Aventure, La Malbaie
What if summer could last just a little longer? This three-day itinerary brings together plenty of reasons to soak up the sunshine, breathe in the breeze off the St. Lawrence River and discover local favourites. From La Malbaie to Baie-Saint-Paul, the St. Lawrence Route leads to hidden gems, delicious stops and postcard-worthy scenery.
Before returning to the usual routine, here is how to make the most of the final days of a Quebec summer with a road trip through Quebec’s Charlevoix region.
Three Days Between La Malbaie and Baie-Saint-Paul
Day 1
VLAD Aventure
Day 1
VLAD Aventure
The best way to make summer last is to get out on the St. Lawrence River. Departing from the Pointe-au-Pic wharf, VLAD Aventure offers introductory sailing excursions and a welcome sense of freedom. With the breeze coming off the water and mountain scenery unfolding along the shoreline, the change of pace is immediate.
Le Café de la Gare
Le Café de la Gare
Back on land, head to Le Café de la Gare for lunch just steps from the wharf. Its bistro-style sharing plates are especially enjoyable on the terrace. It is the perfect place to refuel before setting out along the St. Lawrence Route.
Saint-Irénée’s municipal beach
Saint-Irénée’s municipal beach
Making summer last also means walking barefoot in the sand one more time. As soon as you arrive in Saint-Irénée, you will understand why the village is such a popular destination. Brave visitors can take one final dip in the river, while others may prefer to admire the scenery from one of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World.
Le Domaine Forget de Charlevoix
Le Domaine Forget de Charlevoix
Continue the day at Domaine Forget de Charlevoix, where the Jardin harmonique de sculptures showcases works of art in the open air. In the evening, the stage comes alive with performances by renowned artists and emerging talent. Check the program and reserve your tickets in advance.
Le 362
Le 362
Le 362 offers comfortable accommodations for enjoying the riverside setting a little longer. At dinnertime, Le SAINTI serves refined cuisine inspired by the flavours of Charlevoix. The restaurant has also earned recognition from the Michelin Guide.
Day 2
Sentier Louis-Charles-Audet
Day 2
Sentier Louis-Charles-Audet
The next morning, the Sentier Louis-Charles-Audet leads through farmland before descending toward the river. Fields, forests and sweeping views accompany hikers along the route. Nearby, the Sentier Le Paysan offers an elevated perspective over the Les Éboulements area.
La Ferme Éboulmontaise
La Ferme Éboulmontaise
After either hike, follow the country roads to La Ferme Éboulmontaise. The timing could not be better. Enjoy the farm’s products on site or bring a few home to extend the experience. Before getting back on the road, take a short detour past the fields to meet the farm animals.
La Chocolaterie du Village
La Chocolaterie du Village
The perfect finishing touch? An ice cream dipped in delicious chocolate at La Chocolaterie du Village. This shop tastes like summer and is filled with Belgian chocolates and other chocolate treats.
Ô VITRÔ et cie and Simard, sculpteur
Ô VITRÔ et cie and Simard, sculpteur
The scenery along the St. Lawrence Route has inspired generations of artists and artisans. At Ô VITRÔ et cie, glass is transformed into colourful stained-glass creations. La Cabane d’oiseaux de Jean-Michel Simard introduces visitors to works sculpted from stone, bronze and metal. Check opening hours before visiting.
Hôtel Maison Otis
Hôtel Maison Otis
End the day in downtown Baie-Saint-Paul at Hôtel Maison Otis, located directly on rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste. From here, galleries, boutiques and restaurants are all within walking distance. In the neighbouring laneway, the La Rosée terrace is an inviting place to extend the evening over a cocktail.
Day 3
Golf Baie-Saint-Paul
Day 3
Golf Baie-Saint-Paul
The final day of summer deserves a few hours in the sunshine. Golf Baie-Saint-Paul features a scenic 18-hole, par-72 course. It is an ideal place to discover a new passion or work on your golf swing.
Nixtamal Charlevoix
Nixtamal Charlevoix
Before heading home, finish the trip with a colourful Mexican meal. Guacamole, tacos and vibrant flavours bring this summer getaway to a lively close. Nixtamal Charlevoix is a welcoming place to gather and share authentic dishes inspired by Mexican traditions. ¡Buen provecho!