Experience Québec
Discoveries
Quebec’s pearls
Here in Quebec, we are very fortunate to have an authentic world on a human scale, where a rich heritage blends with magnificent panoramic landscapes. This world is called The Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec. Come discover it and the wealth of history, architectural beauty, regional delicacies and friendly faces.
Tired of the concrete jungle? Make a beeline for the countryside! On the banks of the St. Lawrence or the Saguenay fjord, in the heart of the Basses-Terres or the Appalachians, little pockets of paradise await. There are 36 of them in 12 tourist regions grouped under the name Association des plus beaux villages du Québec (Association of the Most Beautiful Villages).
Founded in 1997, this network of charming villages gives you a chance to get away from the daily grind at a low cost and enjoy a vacation filled with discoveries and relaxation. On the menu: unique regional gastronomy, activities in natural settings and, most of all, the warm hospitality of the villagers themselves.
Essentially, it is "the string of pearls of Quebec, a jewel that we must respect and preserve," says Jean-Marie Girardville, president of the Association.Two noble mandates
The Association has given itself several tourism missions: primarily, to preserve and enhance the value of architectural and historical heritage, as well as the quality of the landscapes in Quebec’s most beautiful villages, and to instil a sense of pride and of belonging among the citizens of the member villages and visitors.So much to choose from
In these beautiful villages, there are a myriad opportunities to admire the river and splendid sunsets. For instance, in Cacouna, Sainte-Rose-du-Nord or Sainte-Pétronille... But there’s more. Taste the cider made in Saint-Antoine-de-Tilly. Build a sand castle in Havre-Aubert. Smell the flowers in Métis-sur-Mer. Breathe in the sea air at Harrington Harbour (movie location of La Grande Séduction). Awaken all of your senses!By foot or bike
Take your time... relax... smile! The villagers will be pleased to tell you their history - as long as you share yours! Encourage the local craftsmen, artists, farmers and retailers; even a visitor from a foreign land will soon feel like a Quebecer. For the list of the 36 member villages of the Association des plus beaux villages du Québec, click here.
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Guillaume Rivard
2008-04-17
