Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Between sea and sky
Bordered to the south by the Appalachians and the Maine border, and bisected by the Chaudière river valley, the region is dotted with a string of riverside villages that are among some of the loveliest in Québec. Proud of their history and rich architectural heritage, these communities are the natural habitat of craftspeople and sculptors. The banks of the St. Lawrence, in turn, are a refuge for snow geese, whose immense seasonal stopovers at Montmagny (across from the Isle-aux-Grues archipelago) are a sight worth seeing. In the fall, the ubiquitous maple tree brings the backcountry alive with dazzling colour; while in winter, exploring the region’s many hills and vast wooded massifs by snowmobile is a must.
Land of seigneurial dignity
The region’s history is almost as long as that of nearby Québec City. The Seigneurie des Aulnaies and the Domaine Joly-De Lotbinière, two opulent 19th-century manors surrounded by magnificent romantic gardens, provide a taste of seigneurial life and a chance to sample an array of delicious local products. A trip to Grosse Île, mid-river in the St. Lawrence, takes you back to the same era... but to a completely different world. The island, today a national historic site, bears witness to the plight of thousands of immigrants—mostly Irish—who, fleeing the famine back home, were put into quarantine upon their arrival in Canada. In L’Islet, the Musée maritime du Québec is a window onto life on the high seas for modern-day sailors.Nature in all her glory
A number of parks conserve the region’s natural heritage. Parc national de Frontenac, which includes a part of magnificent Lac Saint-François (51 km² / 19.7 sq. mi.), is the ideal place for bird watching (over 144 species), hiking and water sports. Two regional parks, the Appalaches and the Massif-du-Sud, both of which are still relatively unknown, are chock-full of outstanding sites and breathtaking vistas. Seventh heaven for outdoor enthusiasts, they offer up a range of activities that are sure to please young and old alike. The many trails of the Sentiers pédestres des trois monts de Coleraine treat walkers to beautiful panoramic views of the region; while a selection of cycle paths provide hours of pleasure for cyclists.Chaudière-Appalaches, for friendly people and an unbeatable setting!
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