Secrets of Charlevoix

Nestled in the heart of our big beautiful province, Charlevoix is a top destination, visited by many tourists every year. The region’s indisputable charm has also been the inspiration for many Quebecois artists. In order to discover its many sides, let’s go there for a day full of activities…. Secrets of Charlevoix

Those who love sea kayaking won’t be able to pass up the opportunity to discover this riverside region by kayak. If you rise early, you’ll be up in time to watch the river awaken as wildlife begins to stir. Then, meet with Sébastien and his team of kayakers from KATABATIK sea kayaking. There are several put-ins between St-Siméon and Petite-Rivière-St-François where you can get information or join a group guided by a professional. No need for any special equipment, you can rent everything there.

Janick, enjoying the breath taking view

In the afternoon, go to the Parc National des Grands Jardin. From the top of Mount Lac des Cygnes, you can look over the expansive mountainous landscape, shaped by a meteorite around 350 thousand years ago. Surprise! Charlevoix is a huge crater, 56 km in diameter (from Baie St-Paul to La Malbaie), and was designated part of the World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. The view from the top of the rocky summit is breath taking! But don’t forget to bring a jacket because the wind is stronger up there. (By jacket I mean, of course, an awesome Arc’teryx Beta AR [colour: fuchsia] that you can admire in the photo at left!)

To finish the day with a bang there’s nothing better than a good meal, in a good place. You’ll want to know about the Bootlegger, a restaurant tucked in the crooks of the mountains. Built in 1860, it has quite a particular, secretive history and is a great place for a steak. Home for many years to a hunting club, prohibition gave witness to a period sans alcool and left behind a few hidden labyrinths. What better way to trump the patrolling officials than with a few double walls! Different days, different ways…

Secrets of Charlevoix