The Peninsula Path

Savour the best the coastline has to offer, as you let the beauty wash over you

Along the 132 from Montréal to Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie, the seaside holiday vibes get stronger as the landscapes become increasingly maritime. Québec by the Sea begins to work its coastal magic, providing a breath of fresh air and a break from your everyday.

Starting with the enchanting village of Kamouraska, admire dazzling sunsets on the St. Lawrence and charming heritage homes that have witnessed centuries of the area’s rich history.

Farther down the road, you’ll find Parc national du Bic, an outdoor paradise in Bas-Saint-Laurent spread out over 33 km ² where you can camp, hike, kayak or just relish the awe-inspiring scenery.

In the city of Gaspé, there’s no end to the water-based activities to enjoy. Take advantage of the St. Lawrence in all its glory by joining a guided fishing expedition at sea.

Next, set sail for Percé and its namesake rock, whose fame is known far and wide. Nearby Île-Bonaventure offers 15 km of hiking paths and is home to the largest gannet colony in North America.

Some must-sees on the Gaspésie peninsula

• En route to Rocher Percé: Travel through picturesque villages, admire the natural wonder that is Rocher Percé, and have an experience that combines the great outdoors and multimedia at Percé’s UNESCO Global Geopark.
• Be surrounded by nature in Rimouski: As well as the unmissable Parc national du Bic, this destination boasts the Réserve Faunique de Rimouski, a nature reserve that’s home to over 150 animal species.
• All the seafood delights you could dream of: Lobster, snow crab, Nordic shrimp, whelks and sea urchins are just some of the delicious bounty from the St. Lawrence that you can enjoy.
• Festivals for every taste in settings that’ll knock your socks off : From a song festival in a secluded valley to riverside concerts that will get your blood pumping, this peninsula is chock-full of entertainment and soul-stirring events.
• Kamouraska’s tideland is a wonder to behold: Who could ask for a more marvelous backdrop for camping than the one offered by SEBKA beside the river?
• Taste the terroir at économusées like Le Ricaneux: Sample products (like delicious berry wine) and meet dedicated artisans who are delighted to tell you about their craft and recommend other great spots to visit.

The entire peninsula is a treasure trove of maritime marvels—from gorgeous dunes and incredible festivals to hidden valleys and fascinating museums. And to say the people are friendly and the food is great is an incredible understatement. Come see why this has been a favourite destination for generations, where countless memories continue to be created.