Day 1: Saint-Maurice River
Travel east along the St. Lawrence River toward Montreal, to the confluence of the Saint-Maurice River and the St. Lawrence. Stop for overnight accommodation and get to know your fellow travellers during a welcome dinner.
Stay: Hotel Energie, Shawinigan, QC (1 night)
Meals: D
Day 2: Val-Jalbert, Arrive in Saguenay
Scenic vistas abound while heading north through the rocky Canadian Shield and the Laurentians. Explore local history at Val-Jalbert,
a restored lumbering village from the 1920s. This genuine company town has forty original period buildings, including a convent-school, general store and pulp mill. While there, enjoy an included lunch and a guided trolley tour of the village. This was an ultramodern village in its time: they had the luxury of electricity and running water 25 years before the rest of the province! The reason is the powerful Ouiatchouan Falls, which can be viewed from a glass overlook. Arrive in the Saguenay region this evening and stay in Jonquière.
Stay: Delta Saguenay Hotel, Jonquière, QC (1 night)
Meals: B, L, D
Day 3: Tadoussac
Travel to the waterfront community of Ste-Rose du Nord and cruise along the precipitous cliffs of the Saguenay Fjord. Learn about the history of the area and see the statue of Notre Dame du Saguenay., keeping a lookout for the fjord’s abundant wildlife on this 2-hour cruise. Disembark in picturesque L’Anse-Saint-Jean for lunch. The panoramic journey continues along the Saguenay’s south shore to Tadoussac, France’s first trading post in Canada established over 400 years ago. Enjoy your stay at the Hotel Tadoussac, a landmark resort on one of the nation’s most beautiful bays.
Stay: Hôtel Tadoussac, Tadoussac,QC (2 nights)
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 4: Whale Watching
After breakfast, embark on a whale-watching cruise of the St. Lawrence River. This area, once frequented by Basque whalers, is now a protected marine park. During your 3-hour journey, you'll have the chance to observe various species of whales including minke, blue, beluga, humpback, and fin. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore the village of Tadoussac. You can visit the Whale Interpretive Centre to dive deeper into the fascinating world of marine life or marvel at the Tadoussac Chapel, the oldest wooden church in Canada. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll through the charming village, where you can browse the quaint boutiques and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this picturesque destination.
Meals:
B, D
Day 5: Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, Montmorency Falls, Québec City
Travel a leisurely route along the north shore of the St. Lawrence, stopping to visit the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica. Situated along the St. Lawrence River, at this beautiful shrine to Sainte Anne, learn about the extraordinary history of the lady who was Jesus’ grandmother and the important role she played in the faith of the people. Enjoy a relaxing lunch at the Montmorency Falls.
These falls are 30 meters higher than those in Niagara. With a gondola ride, take in spectacular views of the falls and the region from the air. Then, the journey continues to Québec City, one of the oldest European cities in North America. You’ll arrive in time to do some exploring and discover an amazing place for dinner.
Stay:
Hôtel Clarendon, Québec City, QC (2 nights)
Meals:
B, L
Day 6: Québec City Tour & Free Time
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Québec City with a knowledgeable local guide. This tour will give you an insightful overview of the city’s rich history and culture, highlighting its most iconic landmarks, such as the famous Château Frontenac, the historic Old Québec (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the stunning City Walls. Following the tour, you’ll have the afternoon free to continue exploring at your own pace. Québec City is full of hidden gems, from its cobblestone streets and quaint boutiques to its picturesque parks and scenic views of the St. Lawrence River. Whether you visit the Plains of Abraham, wander through the Petit Champlain district, or take in the city's vibrant art scene, there's something for every interest. In the evening, reconvene for a memorable farewell dinner.
Meals:
B, D
Day 7: Travel Home
The final treat of your trip awaits at La Sucrerie de la Montagne, where you’ll enjoy a tour of the sugar shack followed by a traditional, hearty lunch. Afterward, take time to shop for maple products at the gift shop before bidding "au revoir" to La Belle Province and continuing your journey home.
Meals:
B, L
