What to do in Charlevoix’s Mountain Sector when it rains

Begin in Clermont at Safran Nordique, a saffron grower, one of the world’s oldest spices. The idea of cultivating it first came up over a family breakfast in 2016. Since then, the business has planted more than 70,000 bulbs and developed a range of saffron-based products. At this economuseum, you can learn how the spice is grown and processed. If the weather rules out a tour of the outdoor facilities, a conversation with the team offers a closer look at their craft. Sample some of their creations, then browse the shop for something to take home.

Follow Route 138 to Saint-Hilarion, where Antiquités Brocantes Charlevoix has an extensive collection of furniture, lamps, decorative pieces and other collectibles to browse. Afterwards, cross the street to Casse-croûte/Bar-Laitier Route 138 for a snack-bar favourite or a dipped soft-serve cone on the covered terrace. Inside, the retro-style shop stocks regional foods and an eclectic assortment of gifts and other finds.

In Saint-Urbain, call in at Les Viandes Bio de Charlevoix, an organic meat processor that offers fresh pork and chicken, dry-cured sausages, hams, pâtés, and verrines. Be sure to visit La Grange, its new tasting pavilion and shop. Right next door, Charcuterie Charlevoisienne combines traditional European methods with regional ingredients and flavours. These two stops are a chance to stock up on Charlevoix specialties while staying out of the rain.

At Centre de l’Émeu de Charlevoix, the oil economuseum introduces the craft and techniques behind emu oil production and processing. A guided tour, which is a great Charlevoix activity, also explains how the birds are raised and lets you observe them up close as you learn about this remarkable species. Stay for a meal at the bistro, where AUSTRAVOIX emu meat features in a variety of dishes alongside other ingredients from Charlevoix.

Just a few minutes away, La Ferme Basque de Charlevoix specializes in duck products. The farm shop sells charcuterie, foie gras mousse, rillettes, pâtés, blood sausage, sausages, cassoulet, and other specialties. You’ll also find Basque linens and products made with Espelette pepper.

On the return drive, take the Mountain Road, pausing at its lookouts to take in the scenery. Then continue to Menaud, a distillery and brewery in Clermont, to finish the day with a Charlevoix beer or spirit. Choose from gin with saline, floral and woody notes or the much-loved haskap beer for a taste of the region before heading home.