Once Upon a Time, a Colony Was Born
Running through Côte-de-Beaupré's picturesque countryside is one of North America's oldest roads. Follow Route de la Nouvelle-France (Avenue Royale) back through four centuries of history and discover magnificent homes from the 18th and 19th centuries; Moulin du Petit Pré, Québec's oldest operating flour mill (it's a vineyard, too!); churches from over two hundred years ago; and historic family farms.
Often referred to as Québec's breadbasket, Côte-de-Beaupré has deep agricultural roots running back to the First Nations and New France's earliest settlers. Today you can sample farm-fresh produce throughout the region, and also discover other local delicacies like the cheeses from Fromagerie Côte-de-Beaupré.
While you're at it, why not visit some of the region's economuseums where local artisans showcase their skills—like the Musée de l'Abeille-Honey Economuseum and Atelier Paré, renowned for its wood sculptures. If you're on the hunt for works by local artists, be sure to check out the numerous local art galleries and boutiques, such as Albert-Gilles Copper Art.
Cycling enthusiasts can also travel Route de la Nouvelle-France at their own pace on the Marie-Hélène-Prémont bike trail.
A Holy Site with a 350 Year History
The first pilgrimage site in North America, the Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine welcomes almost a million visitors each year. A place for prayer, the Shrine is also home to many sacred works.
Nearby the Cyclorama of Jerusalem boasts one of the world's largest panoramic paintings, which transports visitors to the heart of the Holy Land.
Tales of Adventure
Côte-de-Beaupré is known for its numerous waterfalls and gorges—and the stunning views they provide. Peaceful havens for nature lovers and exhilarating challenges for adrenalin junkies—the choice is yours!
Parc de la Chute-Montmorency is the gateway to the region. Its gondola and walking trails provide breathtaking views of the 83-meter-high falls, the St. Lawrence River, and Île d'Orléans. In the winter, you can even go ice climbing—thrills and chills guaranteed!
From the Sept Chutes interpretation center to Sentier des Caps trail in Charlevoix, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails await.
Canyon Sainte-Anne, carved out of a 900-million-year-old rock formation, features trails with suspension bridges, giant potholes, and a dizzyingly high waterfall. There's also an aerial adventure course with an extra-long zip line.
A bit further north, you can rappel safely down Jean-Larose Falls in the company of experienced guides from Canyoning-Québec.
Following the river to Saint-Joachim, you'll come to the Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area, one of Canada's best-known birdwatching sites, with over 300 species. It's also home to hiking trails, interpretive activities, and thousands of greater snow geese that gather there in the fall and spring.
Last but not least, Mont-Sainte-Anne beckons visitors with a host of activities against a breathtaking backdrop, including mountain biking on trails for all levels, hiking, paragliding, golfing at the foot of the mountain, camping at the summit—and even visits to a sled dog village!
Visitors looking for a more relaxing experience can take in the views from a gondola en route to the top of Mont-Saint-Anne. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the area is ablaze with color.
Snow in Legendary Quantities
Here, the annual snowfall isn't a myth or urban legend—it's the real deal! Ski and snowboard enthusiasts can carve and ride to their hearts' content at Mont-Sainte-Anne, a World Cup venue known for its outstanding terrain!
Cross-country skiing enthusiasts will enjoy the stunning wooded trails at the Mont-Sainte-Anne Cross-Country Ski Center, which is ranked first in Canada.
In the Côte-de-Beaupré region, you can also explore sparkling snow-covered landscapes on dogsled trails or marked snowmobile trails overlooking the river, go snowshoeing, or try your hand at an activity unique in North America—ice canyoning!
Restaurants and Accommodation
Finally, what better way to wind down after a day in the great outdoors than with a delicious fireside meal in the cozy comfort of a local cabin, inn, or restaurant. With a wide range of excellent accommodations to choose from, Côte-de-Beaupré is your perfect choice for a legendary vacation!
For more information, visit the Tourisme Côte-de-Beaupré website.