Exploring the backcountry

The real Québec

A resort vacation is the perfect opportunity to explore the province’s furthest reaches. Head off through forest and vale by bike or car and discover the nearby towns and villages at your leisure. It’s a small world—but a vast land!

Local treasures

Québec is criss-crossed by tourist routes designed to highlight local cuisine and specialties: smoked fish on the banks of the river, farmers’ cheeses from the fertile valleys, maple products from the forest’s edge, ice cider at the foot of the hills... Culinary appreciation is definitely on the agenda, as no small amount of lively village festivals will attest to. The many hospitable B&Bs and small inns ask only to welcome you on your rambles. Families and gourmets alike may also enjoy veering off the beaten track for a farm stay: a whole new taste sensation!

Tourist routes

Other itineraries provide a great introduction to local heritage, popular culture, Aboriginal traditions, key historic sites, the impressive religious architectural heritage, and the particularities that give each region its charm and interest. Three itineraries to note are the Wine Route (Route des Vins), the Countryman’s Tour (Circuit du Paysan), and the Border Route (Route des frontières).

Cycle tourists are likely to opt for the Route verte, a signposted bike path network that allows cyclists to tour Québec in maximum safety. Soon to cover most of the province, the route is expected to measure over 4,300 km (2,680 mi.) when complete, making it the largest in North America.

The mighty forest

Sooner or later, your backcountry jaunts will take you to one of the great national parks that dot the province. These nature conservation areas are your chance to discover many of the secrets of the boreal forest and even—thanks to the observatory at the Parc national du Mont-Mégantic—those of the starry sky!

And to really experience “hanging out” in the tall trees, swing from bough to bough on an aerial ropes course: a wonderful adventure for the whole family. Want to maximize your forest stay? Québec’s network of certified wilderness lodges offers unique outfitter accommodations and services, including meals and activities, in a forest setting.