A MORE THAN PERFECT WINTER!

A MORE THAN PERFECT WINTER!
THE OUTDOORS
The art of conquering
the landscape
SNOWMOBILING
Adventure at its best
WELLNESS
AND FLAVOURS
The sweetness of after-ski
CULTURE
A land of discoveries
YOUR
WINTER
QUARTERS
Inns, chalets,
hotels, bed and
breakfasts...
© Steve Deschênes, Parc national des Grands-Jardins, Sépaq
D
A typical Charlevoix winter
o you know what the amateur of winter
thrills, the enthusiast for adventures in
wide spaces, the aesthete enamoured
with dreamlike scenery, the epicurean
seeking authentic and inspired flavours, the
art and culture aficionado and the vacationer
who appreciates the comfort of his nest
as well as his hosts’ friendliness, have in
common? You will find the answer on the
North Shore of the Saint-Lawrence, slightly
to the East of the Old Capital, Québec
City. The Charlevoix region with its long
standing welcoming tradition, its cocktail of
nature-culture and its scenery of remarkable
beauty, is the ideal destination for our
six characters. And what if these friendly
travellers were rolled up into one person?
You! You would certainly begin the day with
a hearty breakfast enhanced with regional
sweets – our terroir is so imaginative!
Savour it with your eyes on the river strewn
with huge ice cubes, the mythical SaintLawrence on its way to merge with the sea.
You will then go on a snowmobile trek from
the coast to the back-country’s little jewels
or on the daring mountain landscapes.
Panoramic thrills assured, before living other
adventures, gastronomic this time, around
a table sampling the region’s fine products.
The afternoon is ideal to go sliding : on the
slopes of a station, on cross-country trails,
among the ice floes in a winter sea-kayak or
in a jacuzzi in a wellness hideout…Just before
going back to the warmth of your chalet or
inn, you will understand to which extent
Charlevoix inspires when visiting Baie-SaintPaul’s art galleries. The landscapes where
you played are magnets to artists. The day
went by fast but it managed to please the
adventurer, the contemplative one, the
foodie… So imagine the following ones!
La rédaction
SOMMAIRE
04 WELCOME
Winter in Charlevoix :
a certain feeling of bliss
10 ACTIVE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
The art and manner of leaving tracks in
the nicest landscapes
Writing director
David Lang
[email protected]
A MORE THAN PERFECT WINTER!
Off-print from Québec Le Mag’
n° 17, winter 2015-2016.
Cannot be sold.
General coordination
project manager
Audrey Lorans-Garbay
[email protected]
Artistic direction
and graphic design
Grand National Studio
[email protected]
Writers
Diane Laberge,
David Lang, Olivier Pierson,
Frédérique Sauvée.
Cover photo
© Robert Chiasson
In collaboration with
Tourisme Charlevoix :
TOURISME CHARLEVOIX
495, de Comporté Boulevard
La Malbaie (Québec) G5A 3G3
18 SNOWMOBILING
Zooming on motorized
adventures
26 CULTURE
A land of infinite discoveries,
a magnet for inspired creators
22 ART OF LIVING
29 VACATIONING
Wellness and flavours : a region
that wishes you well
Tel. : 418 665-4454
Toll free : 1 800 667-2276
(Canada and United States)
www.charlevoixtourism.com
[email protected]
General Manager
Jacques Lévesque
Director of communications/
marketing
Michèle Moffet
Assistant to the Director
of communications/
marketing
Jean-Sébastien Pilote
Québec Le Mag’ is published by :
Les Éditions Neopol France
CHARLEVOIX
Comfort and friendliness :
your nicest winter quarters
SARL capital 22 500 euros.
Manager : Jean-Marie Bernard
RCS Dijon B789158888
2, allée du Clos du Roy
21380 Messigny-et-Vantoux,
France
Tel. : 03 80 44 91 00
www.quebeclemag.com
In collaboration with :
Les Éditions Neopol Inc
460, Sainte-Catherine Street West
Montréal, Québec,
H3B 1A7 Canada
Tel. : +1 514 279-3015
Fax : +1 514 279-1143
www.neopol.ca
[email protected]
General Manager
Jonathan Chodjaï
Director of sales
and administration
Audrey Lorans Garbay
Coordinator
Eleonore Guetny
Printing
Solisco Numérix
4050, Jean-Marchand Street
bureau 100, Québec (QC) G2C 1Y6
003
A more than
perfect winter
CHARLEVOIX
Could it be the fall of a meteorite 350 million years ago that shaped
Charlevoix into this unique, vibrant and creative « wow » destination whether
in soft or extreme mode? Highly valued by epicureans and sport lovers
seeking a rush, Charlevoix unfurls its post card-type of immaculate white
landscapes nestled between river and mountains.
WORDS Diane Laberge
004
WELCOME
© Robert Chiasson
"CHARLEVOIX IS A UNIQUE
BLEND OF REAL ADVENTURE
AND HUMAN SHARING, ALL IN SOME
OF THE BELLE PROVINCE’S MOST
INSPIRING LANDSCAPES."
A
© Vincent Grégoire
n hour from Québec City, Charlevoix reveals its intoxicating
landscapes alongside the Saint-Lawrence River, at the
heart of one of the few inhabited Biosphere Reserves,
from Petite-Rivière-Saint-François to Baie-Sainte-Catherine.
Thousand of square kilometres of pure bliss! Even though its
30 000 likeable residents have elected to live near the river so
wide that many call it « the sea », Charlevoix’s marvelous backcountry rolls out its white carpets endlessly. Here, the playground
knows no boundaries other than those fixed by the body and soul
to conquer it.
CHASING PANORAMAS
Nordic skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts will enjoy the GrandsJardins national park and its many side paths such as the Sentier
des Caps or the Traversée Charlevoix whose layout brushes against
the superb Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie national park.
Everywhere the trails are vertiginous, whether leaving shoelace
type patterns in the snow to the edge of the cliff, the river at the
feet or hiking in majestic woods dizzy with the conifers’ perfume.
Get on a snowmobile to discover Charlevoix for a trek including
the night in a prospector tent or for a two-hour guided tour of
the back-country, a true foray into an unspoiled and vast nature.
Light Train Charlevoix
More than a means of transport, an experience! Hugging the SaintLawrence while linking the coastal villages of Charlevoix, the Light Train
invites its passengers to an exclusive panoramic epic, between river and
mountains. Revisiting the ski-in/ski-out concept, it also shuttles daily
between Baie-Saint-Paul and the Massif’s slide sport station, alongside
nearly 20 km of the great river’s ice sheets. Coming aboard?
CHARLEVOIX
005
What a change of scenery to discover lakes hidden at the bottom
of valleys, to travel a wild territory inhabited by stags and caribous
or to ascent the vertiginous slopes of mountains whose names
are a testimony to history, such as La Noyée, the Mont des Morios
and the Mont Élie.
SLIDE ON A BLUE BACKDROP
© Bertrand Le meunier
Charlevoix’s winter palette where white and blue blend endlessly
stretches out between heaven and sea. Here the snow is
abundant (sometimes up to 7 metres) and sliding aficionados
know how to take advantage of it. Le Massif de Charlevoix
– the highest vertical East of the Canadian Rockies – offers
snow-packed trails reaching the sea, a 7,5-km sled run (unique
in North America) and guided off-piste skiing with powder
snow to the knees. On the East side, the Mont Grand-Fonds
is a picturesque haven where the after-ski is as popular as its
mountain sides.
EPICUREAN NATURE
Charlevoix is also the paradise of epicureans whose quest
of local flavours takes them to the corner bakery, the cheese
Economuseum, a country bistro or a gourmet food restaurant.
Between two tastings, stop at the spa and discover the
therapeutic Nordic baths « with a view ». Wherever one looks,
the scenery invites to thankfulness and healing. Charlevoix
inspires. A proof? Many artists have set up shop there, enjoying
every day the hospitality of Charlevoix’s people whose heart is
as big as the Earth.
toward Baie-James
ce
ren
aw
L
St.
er
Riv
Leading destinations
Whether traveling the River Road or the Mountain Road, we’ll come
across picturesque villages full of history and life. La Malbaie is
considered the craddle of resort tourism in Canada while Baie-SaintPaul, known as the « Pays des artistes » is among the country’s cultutal
capitals. If you are a good sailor, Isle-aux-Coudres will amaze you with
its maritime culture and the residents’ warm welcome. Charlevoix also
hosts a portion of the Saguenay-Saint-Laurent marine park, one of the
world’s best destinations to observe marine mammals in the summer.
From Saint-Fidèle to Baie-Sainte-Catherine, travel the open sea and
discover the large river’s coastal jewels.
L A C A RT E
Baie-Saint-Paul
Boston 718
829 151
741
21
767
52
832 676
512 353
331 934
618
93
867 902
Saguenay
Isle-aux-Coudres 174
La Malbaie
40 186
Moncton 627 699 749
Montréal 1028 405 376 464
New York 608 1180 983 957 1045
Québec 834 253 798 143 123 211
Toronto 802 781 546 1574 951 925 1000
Winter in Charlevoix is (from top to bottom and left to right) : sliding in
panoramic mode at the Massif de Charlevoix; magnificent tête-à-tête with the
Saint-Lawrence River; towns and villages with character (here Les Éboulements);
moments of sharing regional products; cultural sites and a heritage worth
discovering (here in Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive); outdoor fun for all and in total
friendliness (cross-country skiing at Mont Grand-Fonds station).
008
© Robert Chiasson
© André-Olivier Lyra
© Bertrand Lemeunier
© Benjamin Gagnon
© Bertrand Lemeunier
© Robert Chiasson
Snapshots
WELCOME
010
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
The art of leaving
your mark
T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S
Imagine impressive white-covered mountains standing across
the Saint-Lawrence ice sheets. Imagine small villages with
tens of coloured-roof homes. Imagine at last, warmly dressed,
ready to play for hours in newly fallen snow, just like children...
© Robert Chiasson
WORDS Frédérique Sauvée
CHARLEVOIX
011
© Louis Laliberté
012
© Steve Deschênes / Parc national
des Grands-Jardins, Sépaq
F
avourite spot to savour the joys
of winter as a couple, between
friends or as a family, Charlevoix
offers a wealth of activities on a nearly
boundless territory. Let us think about
the eroded landscapes of the Canadian
Shield which are wonderful for Alpine
skiing, telemark, luge or Nordic skiing.
There are also deep valleys shaped by the
impact of a meteorite…A true paradise
for dog-sledding, snowshoeing and
cross-country skiing. Let us not forget the
shores of the Saint-Lawrence, sometimes
craggy, sometimes soft and flat, in all
cases appropriate for ice-fishing, sliding
or more astonishing yet, winter seakayaking, an original activity to practise
between the river’s snowdrifts. The
promise of an activity-packed stay with a
thousand and one memories…
A national park,
a hundred ways to appreciate winter
Busier during the summer, the Grands-Jardins national park
remains a well-kept secret for winter outdoor lovers. Carpeted
with exceptional Nordic vegetation, its terriroty is one of
the central areas of the Biosphere Reserve of Charlevoix.
Put on your Nordic skis or your snowshoes and go meet the
inhabitants of the spruce forest. With a little luck, you will
observe tracks of caribou, porcupine or red fox. Or you may go
ice-fishing on lake Étang-Malbaie under which brook trouts
may be caught.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
© Massif de Charlevoix
All manners of skiing
Are you more a panoramic skier at the Massif or an authentic skier
at Mont Grand-Fonds? Among the most beautiful in Québec,
Charlevoix’s two ski stations stand out with the beauty of their landscapes,
the quality of slide as well as their radiating warm ambience,
from the rental shop to the pub for the after-ski.
T
The first one, the Massif, has become known internationally
recently thanks to the development of its hotel
infrastructures, its accessibility by train and a wide range
of sliding activities. Located in Petite-Rivière-Saint-François,
the Massif de Charlevoix displays the most incredible alpine
panoramas on the Saint-Lawrence and its scattered ice floes.
Skiers seeking emotions, contemplative or competitive, will be
delighted by the quality, the length and the variety of the trails
to tear down in alpine ski, snowboard or else in telemark. Proud
of its prime location alongside the river, the station enjoys
the privilege to shuttle its visitors by train along a coastal
path of a rare beauty (please refer to the insert on the Light
Train page 5). They may put on their skis on the station’s quay
and board the cable car to the slopes peaks without worrying
about parking the car. Finally, fabulous lodgings nearby and
restaurants in altitude complete the experience by proposing
healthy gourmet food, a far cry from other ski stations fastfood cuisine.
CHARLEVOIX
013
© Mont Grand-Fonds
© Mont Grand-Fonds
© Massif de Charlevoix
Two stations to enjoy all the pleasures of sliding. Here, the joys
of off-piste in powdered snow at the Massif de Charlevoix.
Above, Mont Grand-Fonds gladly lends its slopes to snow-boarders;
to the right, nearly 140 km of cross-country skiing trails.
PLEASURE FOR ALL
With a different regard on skiing and the mountain, the Mont
Grand-Fonds ski station offers sliding just as pleasurable.
Located in La Malbaie, this family station has seduced for almost
45 years skiers looking for exceptional natural snow coverage,
far away from artificial snow cannons. Its trails delightfully
savage meandering through the trees are covered with powder
snow. On the North-East side of the mountain, an all new slope
now offers 8 hectares for practising hors-piste skiing. A true plus
for this station which favours the best possible harmony with
the natural environment. For those who would like to sample
other activities, try snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and
snowmobiling on kilometres upon kilometres of winding trails
at the foot of the mountain. So panoramic ski or authentic ski?
If I were you, I would try them both!
A must:
Sledding at the Massif
© André-Olivier Lyra
Put on your helmet and get on your
sled for a 7,5 km descent at full speed!
This activity proposed by the Massif de
Charlevoix ski station lets you enjoy
the impressive height difference of
its slopes in an original and intense
manner. In a matter of seconds, the
strong emotions of your childhood
will resurface, a large blissful smile
on your lips. Supervised and safe, the
descent is done on authentic wooden
sleds supplied by the station on a
trail dedicated to the activity. Many
stops are planned along the road
to appreciate the Massif’s fantastic
landscapes and also to warm up at
the half-mountain refuge. An outdoor
activity totally frosty to change from
other sliding pleasures.
014
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
© Bertrand Lemeunier
Excursions with
a little something
R
Dog-sledding is a tradition in Nordic regions which is still popular
nowadays with tourists. Many Charlevoix kennels offer to visitors to
experience dog-sledding on the snow covered trails criss-crossing the
region with varied and undulating landscapes.
elease the break and it is a stampede among the pack of
beautiful Huskies, Alaskans and Malamutes that conduct
the sled. Whether the excursion lasts a few hours or a few
days, the feeling of reaching the end of the world through spruce
forests, the frozen lakes ice floe and the snow covered landscapes,
is totally magical. Among the companies offering initiation outings
as well as outings that last one or several days, we particularly like
Descente Malbaie which operates in Saint-Aimé-des-Lacs and its
surroundings and the Chenil Sportif, around Les Éboulements. Of
course, the activity is on the menu of outdoor festivities proposed
by several resorts, lodgings and tourist centres in the region. A
dream opportunity to travel the area’s vastness like a true musher!
CHARLEVOIX
015
© Louis Laliberté
© Bertrand Lemeunier
© Bertrand Lemeunier
Thanks to its unmatched snow coverage and its trails map,
Charlevoix is a great destination for snowshoeing. Whether
on the mountainous side, alongside the river or deep
in the woods, panorama chasers never come up empty.
On foot or snowshoeing:
rendez-vous with majesty
A
Charlevoix is rolling in snow! There is no need to convince powder snow lovers
to grab their snowshoes and leave their mark on any of a thousand kilometres
of marked out trails between river and mountains.
ll trekkers will find what they are looking for : families
with young children will enjoy the panel drawn loops on
soft slopes at the Grands-Jardins national park while
the more seasoned will face the steep slopes of the Sentier
des Caps alongside the river for outings of one or several days.
Trekkers favouring lenghty outings will choose the Traversée
de Charlevoix : 12 dreamy days with sleeping arrangements in
016
chalets and refuges. And the contemplative ones who would
like to trek in the enchaning decor of the frozen coast will be
well inspired to head for Isle-aux-Coudres, Baie-Saint-Paul
and its surroundings or Petite-Rivière-Saint-François and
admire the icebreakers busy with opening the Saint-Lawrence.
A few suggestions among an infinite possibilities, trekking is
accessible everywhere in Charlevoix.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
© Bertrand Lemeunier
Never short
of ideas!
© Bertrand Lemeunier
Looking for other good ideas for winter
activities during your stay in Charlevoix?
They are plentiful in the region.
G
o for a first flight on board a Cessna or a helicopter tour
above the coastal mountains wrapped up in their white
coat. Would you rather tear down their slopes during an
afternoon of tubing with the kids? Future naturalists wishing
to familiarize themselves with the winter wildlife may also go
hiking in snowshoes with a guide who will be happy to share his
knwoledge of the local fauna and flora. Let us not forget that
activities to do on the river and frozen lakes, such as winter seakayaking between the river’s ice sheets with guides that have seen
it all. Something tells us you will not forget these experiences
that bring you in contact with Charlevoix’s vast nature. They will
also entice you to rediscover those landscapes come summer,
through yet other ativities…and without the tuque!
CORPORATION DU SENTIER DES CAPS
DE CHARLEVOIX
© Sépaq
Meandering between sea and mountains alongside splendid and
unique landscapes, the Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix unfurls for
the ultimate delight of snowshoeing and cross-country lovers.
A unique and priceless jewel to discover in the Charlevoix area.
2, rue Leclerc, St-Tite-des-Caps, G0A 4J0.
Tél. : 418-823-1117 / 1-866-823-1117. www.sentierdescaps.com
CHARLEVOIX
017
Snowmobiling
at its peak
M OT O R I Z E D A DV E N T U R E S
Conquering the nicest landscapes, making the engine roar
alongside the river, in the mountain and even on an island, living
the unique ambience of hotels and inns…this is why Charlevoix
is an excellent destination for snowmobile enthusiasts.
WORDS Olivier Pierson
018
MOTORIZED ADVENTURES
CHARLEVOIX
019
© Top Location
Did you know?
« WHEREVER YOU ARE,
THE BEAUTY IS OVERWHELMING.
THE IDEAL PLAYGROUND! »
Thirteen Québec regions
are linked through a
snowmobile path of more
than 33 000 kilometres. The
network section connecting
Charlevoix, Québec City,
the Saguenay-Lac-SaintJean and the Côte-Nord
regions is renowned to be
particularly spectacular and
well maintained.
A rendez-vous
© Bertrand Lemeunier
© Bertrand Lemeunier
© Bertrand Lemeunier
Every year at the end of
January, the magical site of
hotel Fairmont Le Manoir
Richelieu and the Casino
de Charlevoix welcomes
the Grand rassemblement
des motoneigistes (great
gathering of snowmobile
riders) : a must attend event
for all amateurs.
I
t is true, Charlevoix holds the winning combination to seduce
motorized adventurers, the most seasoned as the beginners.
Landscapes as varied as imposing, a snow covering rate
among the highest in Québec, trails that are perfectly tended
to, patient and in touch with clients’ needs guides…Here you
live your escape at your own pace, in total safety and the effort
is always rewarded.
OPTIMAL CONDITIONS
Needless to say that the best conditions are reunited to mount
one of those snow bolides. First the decor, with spectacular
landscapes inviting you to frequently stop the motor and
savour the panorama. Blissful as diverse : you may overlook
or run alongside the river for a moment, then find yourself
on the mountain the moment after, or criss-cross the backcountry from village to village and even hit Isle-aux-Coudres,
according to the itinerary selected…Wherever you are the
beauty is overwhelming. And the snow is always there. From
December to April, Charlevoix enjoys a snow coverage rate
among the highest in the province. The region which offers in
turn gentle and craggy landscapes as no other, profits from the
020
combination of several factors such as the weather, the altitude
and the microclimates.
THE CARE THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
If the map of snowmobiling trails looks like a map of panoramic
treasures, the state of the trails is the other Charlevoix asset. 600
km of high quality trails handled with meticulous care. They are
maintained by Le Sapin d’Or, which celebrates its 50th anniversary
this year, and Les Aventuriers de Charlevoix, two major snowmobile
clubs. Generally speaking, the professionals, rental companies,
clubs and resorts offering snowmobiling in Charlevoix are known
for their expertise. You may check Aventure Laurentienne or Top
Location, two key rental companies offering guided treks. The
supervision is an integral part of snowmobiling, even for seasoned
people, who may improve their technique with professionals.
Neophytes must be able to learn on practice trails and progress
at their own pace. We often insist on the necessity of not being
too ambitious the first time; it is better to start with a few hours
outing before going on a trek of several days. Ready to go ? Once
you have made your selection (please refer to insert), your trek in
Charlevoix will take you higher and further than you thought!
MOTORIZED ADVENTURES
© Top Location
Itineraries for everyone
© Bertrand Lemeunier
Beginner or seasoned pilots, alone or as a group, contemplative
or resolutely competitive, in for a few hours initiation ride or
for several days trek : snowmobiling in Charlevoix is convenient
for all profiles and all wishes. Designed by professionals and
accommodation establishments, several packages highlight
some of the region’s different attractions, such as gourmet
food, wildlife or charming inns. Epicureans or adventurers, you
will find the formula you dream of !
CHARLEVOIX
021
The heights of comfort
WELLNESS AND DELICACIES
We had a lot of fun? Now is the time to take it easy.
Charlevoix has all and then some that is needed to rest
the body and tickle the taste buds.
WORDS Diane Laberge
022
art of living
© Robert Chiasson
I
n these grandiose surroundings, the after-ski has a whole
new meaning. When the sun sets behind the mountains
and the muscles need massaging, Charlevoix sets the table.
The tables! On the massage table or with a fork in the hand,
opportunities abund to taste life’s little pleasures drizzled with
Charlevoix’s very own sauce.
"WELLNESS CENTRES AND GREAT
FOOD TO REVIVE THE SENSES
BEFORE THE NEXT ADVENTURE
ABUND IN CHARLEVOIX."
WELLNESS DESTINATION
outdoor Jacuzzi session or the heated swimming pool with a view
of the Saint-Lawrence, massages, reflexology and several other
treatments attending to all your needs with huge beneficial
effects. In inns, hotels and several sites entirely dedicated to
your wellness, you will find what is needed to revive your senses
in time for the next adventure.
Day in day out, in summer as in winter, the region revisits the
concept of farniente. Wherever one stays in Charlevoix, there is
always a site or installations for relaxing fully and enjoying the
country scenery in an ultra contemporary setting. To be enjoyed :
the Nordic bath experience (in other words thermotherapy), the
CHARLEVOIX
023
© Robert Chiasson
Charlevoix at your service! Here the gastronomic experience
highlights the terroir’s true flavours. Lucky for food lovers and
epicureans, as the region is most generous, diversified and inventive
with its lovely produce stemming from human scale farming.
© Pascal Arsenault
© Pascal Arseneault
A TERROIR THAT DOES YOU GOOD
If effort calls for comforting, it also stimulates the appetite.
Charlevoix boasts several gourmet restaurants where
local flavours may be sampled. And what is so special with
Charlevoix’s terroir? Some say it tastes like bliss. Everywhere
in the region, you will sense the communion between chefs,
producers and product transformers that make Charlevoix a first
class destination for gourmet food, and one among Québec’s
regions most innovative in agritourism. Charlevoix’s terroir is
a true experience in addition to havng a long list of epicurean
entrepreneurs. Think of the breeders of venison, duck, emu,
goat, lamb, pork and bio chicken offering their fine products
and our bakeries, cheese, chocolate, honey, and traditional
cider factories, apéritifs and sugar shacks and other suppliers
of delicacies. That is Charlevoix : a niche of agriculture that
reinvents itself day after day!
Charlevoix's grade: 100 %
© Robert Chiasson
More than forty producers are members of the great Charlevoix
Flavour Trail. Some of them (Viandes Biologiques de Charlevoix,
Cidres et Vergers Pedneault, Ferme Basque de Charlevoix, Ferme
l’Oiseau Bleu and Laiterie Charlevoix) just recently posted the seal
Certified Charlevoix Terroir. Proof of unprecedented authenticity, the
logo guarantees the product’s origin and the nature of its making or
transformation. Local, true and good!
024
art of living
© Robert Chiasson
So creative!
In addition to its fertile grounds and the rich know-how
passed on by generations of producers, a special ingredient
characterizes the gourmet Charlevoix : creativity. Here
the terroir’s craftsmen enjoy standing out in all areas :
in production – greener and more eco-responsible – in
the blend of flavours and the uniqueness of the finished
products. Along your gourmet quest, you will come across,
among others, a tomato wine unique in the world, cheeses
that may compete with the best French ones, traditional
ciders and beers with a distinctive character… How can you
not be amazed and seduced like were so many great chefs of
the region and from elsewhere? Welcome into the virtuous
circle of inspiration!
BISTRO AUBERGE CHEZ TRUCHON
© Sépaq
It’s in this magnificent century old dwelling which offers
8 contemporary style rooms renovated in perfect harmony with
the ancestral architecture that Dominique Truchon, renowned
chef of the region, supported by his team, welcomes you and
proposes a revisited bistro cuisine with local flavors.
1065 rue Richelieu, La Malbaie, G5A 2X8.
Tél. : 1-888-662-4622 / 418-665-4622. www.aubergecheztruchon.com
CHARLEVOIX
025
© J-F Bergeron Enviro Foto
A land of infinite
discoveries
C U LT U R E
Charlevoix inspires. Of all times, its river and mountains
have been painted, photographed, written and sung about by
numerous artists who captured its larger than nature beautiful
landscapes. Hence, Charlevoix’s reputation as a cultural
destination par excellence.
WORDS Diane Laberge
026
CULTURE
M
useums, art centres, galleries, studios and other historical
sites give Charlevoix its unique and everlasting colour.
From cider factories through windmills, traditional
paper mills or dairies of yesteryear, a cultural canevas spins its
web giving the region its very own identity.
AN ARTIST MAGNET
Inspired by the life of trappers and the beautiful wide spaces,
we understand why painters such as Clarence Gagnon, René
Richard and all the others of the Group of Seven stopped here
long ago. Like the founding artists of Cirque du Soleil who, at
the onset of the 80’s, took the first steps of circus art into the
streets of Baie-Saint-Paul, perched on stilts. Fashioned by so
© Xoxoxooxoxoxoxooxo
© Musée d’art contemporain de Baie-Saint-Paul
© Bertrand Lemeunier
© Bertrand Lemeunier
Inspired and inspiring, Charlevoix shows off for the gallery and vice versa!
Plenty of locations where art and handicraft thrive. Above, the art gallery Iris in Baie-Saint-Paul.
Above to the left, the art of potters from Port-au-Persil, Saint-Siméon or Saint-Irénée.
To the right, the must-see Musée d’art contemporain de Baie-Saint-Paul.
"SAINT-JEAN-BAPTISTE STREET ON
ITS OWN WOULD AMOUNT TO THE
HIGHEST CONCENTRATION OF ART
GALLERIES PER KM2 IN CANADA!"
much history, Charlevoix is today one of Québec’s most sought
after cultural destinations.
THE ART OF IMPRESSING THE GALLERY
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Street in Baie-Saint-Paul on its own would
amount to the highest concentration of art galleries per km2
CHARLEVOIX
027
© Casino de Charlevoix
in Canada. More than twenty of them display works from local
artists whose reputation is well established, from Guy Paquet to
Jean-François Racine (known as the « painter-skier ») and Jimmy
Perron and Stefan Horik. A few metres from there, the Musée
d’art contemporain de Baie-Saint-Paul – the only Québec
museum of contemporary art in the region – contrasts sharply
with the figurative style of the paintings available in the galleries
while in La Malbaie, the Musée de Charlevoix, also unique in
its own style, highlights remarkably the regional heritage and
popular art.
Place your bets!
A KNOW-HOW ANTHOLOGY
Artcrafting is well represented in Charlevoix’s artistic panorama.
Here, we play with wood, we reinvent the art of ceramic, we have
fun with textiles, we dally with glass, we sculpt metal, we joke
with paper and we fool around with leather. Discover the artists
talents in the boutiques or in their studio.
Inescapable and magnetic, nestled between river and mountain, the
Casino de Charlevoix will make you happy if you like a little gambling.
Twenty game tables and no less than 1000 slot machines await you. As
guests of the Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu, you are already on site : use
the underground passageway to go and try your luck.
Ideas to celebrate winter
© Louis Laliberté
© Bertrand Lemeunier
We like Charlevoix’s festive side. In winter, we pull our tuque down, put
on our seven-league boots and jump with both our feet together into the
action. Who cares what the thermometer’s mercury indicates, one thing is
for sure : warmth comes from the heart.
• LE MARCHÉ
DE NOËL DE BAIESAINT-PAUL
November 27 to 29
and December 4 to 6
On Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Street reserved to
pedestrians, lovely
illuminated wooden
kiosks offer passersby
terroir products and local
handicrafts.
marchedenoelbsp.com
028
• LA VIRÉE NORDIQUE
DE CHARLEVOIX
February 12 to 14, 2016
in La Malbaie
On the program of this
festival both competitve and
family oriented : seeking
new challenges and sharing
an intense adventure in
exceptional surroundings,
in cross-country skiing or
snowshoeing.
vireenordique.com
• LA GRANDE
TRAVERSÉE CASINO
DE CHARLEVOIX
• ODE À L’HIVER
– CASINO DE
CHARLEVOIX
On ice rivalry between Isleaux-Coudres and the river’s
North shore!
This competition of ice
canoes gathers the sport’s
best athletes.
grandetraversee.com
A grandiose pyromusical
show matched only by the
splendour of the site where
it occurs every winter, in the
Pointe-au-Pic sector.
casino-de-charlevoix.com
February 12 to 14, 2016 in
Isle-aux-Coudres
CULTURE
End of February in La
Malbaie
© Robert Chiasson
Into the nicest
winter quarters
VA C AT I O N I N G
One of Charlevoix’s strongest point is its art of entertainment. A welcoming
know-how inherited from a long tradition of vacationing in the region.
Prestigious hotels, attractive inns, cozy bed and breakfasts, friendly guest houses
or chalets with a front seat to the spectacular scenery : choice, comfort and
authenticity are present year-round.
WORDS David Lang
CHARLEVOIX
029
© Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu
Hotels et motels
The offer is rather generous in the region and you will find the room corresponding to your needs, whichever sector you reside in.
The small accessible motel convenient to use as a base to touring the area or the dreamy suite of a five-star hotel living a life of
luxury…and everything in between! Catering, sports and wellness equipment or activities and packages in conjunction with
other operators are among the criteria which will determine your choice. A constant, though : you will be treated like a king!
FAIRMONT LE MANOIR
RICHELIEU *****
Its historic character, the
remarkable site where it
stands erect between river
and mountain, its gourmet
dining restaurants and
its casual yet luxurious
atmosphere make the
Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu
a definite Charlevoix must.
The good life and all that
is needed to play outdoors
(snowmobiling, dogsledding, skating, ice-fishing,
heated pool…) and indoor, at
the spa or between the walls
of the Casino de Charlevoix
linked to the famous Manoir.
181 Richelieu Street, La Malbaie
(Pointe-au-Pic), G5A 1X7.
Tél. : 418 665-3703.
Sans frais : 1 (800) 441-1414.
www.fairmont.fr/richelieucharlevoix
LE PETIT MANOIR DU
CASINO ***
Steps away from the
Casino de Charlevoix, the
hotel has undergone a
complete revamping, while
the pavilions built higher
up on Pointe-au-Pic’s cliff
now offer no less than 78
fully-equipped studios. On
the hotel side : 67 rooms to
choose from, two indoor
spas and a family-type
restaurant.
525, chemin des Falaises,
G5A 2V5.
Tél. : 418 665-0000.
Sans frais : 1 (800) 618-2112.
www.petitmanoirducasino.ca
HÔTEL LE GERMAIN
CHARLEVOIX ****
You will be seduced by its
originality and modernity!
Built a few years ago, Le
Germain Charlevoix and its
141 rooms have concocted
their own blissful recipe with
exclusive ingredients : a
contemporary design laden
with references to the country
tradition; friendly pavilions
inspired by the farms of
yesteryear; the total wellness
at the Spa du Verger; catering
in casual or gastronomic
mode… without a doubt the
most urban of country hotels.
50 de la Ferme Street,
Baie-Saint-Paul, G3Z 0G2.
Tél. : 418 240-4100.
Sans frais : 1 (844) 240-4700.
www.legermainhotels.com/fr/
charlevoix/
AUBERGE CAP-AUX-CORBEAUX
Nestled high on Cap-aux-Corbeaux, minutes
from Baie-St-Paul, a lovelyc inn with a unique
panorama. Our ten rooms boast an exceptional
view on the St-Lawrence river, the Massif
of Petite-Rivière-Saint-François
and Isle-aux-Coudres.
62 du Nordet, Baie Saint-Paul, G3Z 3C1.
Tél. : 418 435-5676 / 1-800-595-5676.
www.cap-aux-corbeaux.com
030
hébergement
LA MAISON
DES RIVES **
With its eight well turned
out rooms carefully
decorated, this house is a
good choice to taste the
regional hospitality. Excellent
restaurants nearby in La
Malbaie and only one small
kilometre away from the
Casino de Charlevoix. The
best : the unrestricted view
of the river.
830 Richelieu Street,
La Malbaie (Pointe-au-Pic),
G5A 2X3.
Tél. : 418 665-4107.
Sans frais : 1 (877) 665-4107.
www.maisondesrives.ca
Tourism residences and chalets
Synonym of total freedom, chalets, houses, apartments or condos for rent are favorites among families or groups
wishing to experience the region at their own pace and on their own. Sixty such lodgings are spread out through
the region offering a homey feeling according to the comfort level of your choice. These lodgings that include at least
a kitchen and a bedroom are rated one to five stars. From the basic base camp for skiing to the deluxe chalet
you will have a hard time to leave, it is a matter of choice!
© Les Chalets de Môh
LES CHALETS DE MÔH ****
Eleven deluxe chalets that can
accommodate 4 to 12 people, located in the
woods at the heart of Mont Grand-Fonds'
territory, near the ski slopes and the
snowmobile trails of the station bearing
the same name. An ideal surrounding of
woods and generous nature, like that of an
authentic Québec fur trader, but with the
comfort. From the decor to the equipment,
from the furniture carefully mottled or
made-to-measure to the services, the
Les
A unique adventure in the heart of Charlevoix;
deluxe log chalets providing ultimate comfort in the woods
above Mont Grand Fonds ski and snowmobiles slopes.
WWW.CABANEAUCANADA .CA
tiniest detail has been thought of with the
guests’ comfort and enchantment in mind.
1008, chemin des Loisirs,
La Malbaie, G5A 1Y8.
Tél. : 418 665-4711.
www.cabaneaucanada.ca
© Auberge des Peupliers
Attractive inns
In Charlevoix’s lovely inns, one can live what made the region’s reputation for close to two centuries : the art of entertainment.
The hospitality, the decor, the gastronomy with its local flavours, the services that will often amaze you…all this will make your
stay a most memorable one. The heritage character which imposes respect, romantic nest or contemporary and casual room, there
are more than 35 inns that will roll out the red carpet to you in Charlevoix.
BISTRO AUBERGE
CHEZ TRUCHON **
More than an inn, an experience!
First the comfort and the decor of
this great historical house boasting 9
discreetely deluxe rooms and suites.
Then the gastronomic experience,
you are after all « chez » Dominique
Truchon, a chef tirelessly inspired by
his region’s terroir.
1065 Richelieu Street, La Malbaie, G5A 2X8.
Tél. : 418 662-4622.
Sans frais : 1 (888) 662-4622.
www.aubergecheztruchon.com
AUBERGE
CAP-AUX-CORBEAUX ***
The warmth, the comfort and the
terroir’s flavours : all the ingredients are
reunited in this beautiful house offering
ten rooms facing the river with a view of
the Massif and Isle-aux-Coudres. Nearby
Baie-Saint-Paul; off the beaten paths
and closest to winter’s pleasures.
62 du Nordet Street,
Baie-Saint-Paul, G3Z 3C1.
Tél .: 418 435-5676.
Sans frais : 1 (800) 595-5676.
www.cap-aux-corbeaux.com
AUBERGE DE LA RIVE DE CHARLEVOIX
280, rue de l’Église, St-Joseph-de-la-Rive, G0A 3Y0.
Tél. : 418-635-2846 /1-888-935-2846. www.aubergedelarive.net
032
12 rooms in the inn and 7 motel units
alongside a small river await you for a
stay marked by country hospitality and
a welcoming warmth. An intimate and
rejuvenating place that also shines with its
terroir flavoured table and its selection of
packages for all seasons.
280 de l’Église Street, Les Éboulements
(Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive), G0A 3Y0.
Tél. : 418 635-2846.
Sans frais : 1 (888) 935-2846.
www.aubergedelarive.net
MAISON DES RIVES
Superb old house set at the edge of the bay of the Malbaie
River. 8 rooms with a view and private bathroom await you, and
a homemade breakfast is included. The family and friendly
atmosphere will delight you for the length of your stay with us.
© Sépaq
Looking for a warm and friendly inn, L’Auberge de la rive de
Charlevoix proposes many getaway packages : Gastronomy, casino,
dog-sledding, sea-kayaking, snowmobiling, downhill skiing at the
Massif, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. We look forward to
welcoming you.
AUBERGE DE LA RIVE
DE CHARLEVOIX **
830, rue Richelieu, La Malbaie, G5A 2X3.
Tél. : 1-418-665-4107 / 1-877-665-4107. www.maisondesrives.ca
hébergement
© Hébergement Charlevoix
Bed and breakfasts and guest houses
Echoing to the country and epicurean reputation of the region,
accommodation in bed and breakfast puts you in the front seat
of the « true life » of Charlevoix’s people. The very personalized
service, the warm atmosphere, the friendly talks with your
hosts and, of course, the true flavours of the terroir at your
table, are the strong points of this type of vacationing that is
becoming more and more popular. In Charlevoix, economy
and authenticity go well together!
AUBERGE DES EAUX VIVES
Cap-à-l’Aigle’s panorama for your eyes only, royal breakfasts
with a view of the river, a most romantic cocoon to find
yourselves again? No doubt you are a guest of one of the
three charming rooms at Auberge des Eaux Vives, a house
delightfully extolling quiet and accessible luxury.
39 de la Grève Street, La Malbaie (Cap-à-l’Aigle), G5A 2R3.
Tél. : 418 665-4808. Sans frais : 1 (888) 565-4808.
www.aubergedeseauxvives.com
Experienced in the art of four-season
entertaining, Charlevoix has a wealth of
campgrounds, youth hostels, uncommon
eco-friendly lodgings such as yurts,
hikers refuges and let us not forget
outfitters, these sites dedicated to fishing
and hunting which are accomplished
034
in the art of welcoming guests. The
summer season is ideal to sample other
aspects of Charlevoix and, for example,
to trade the snowmobile for a bike or
sea kayak, discover the region’s national
parks, observe and get close to the
Saint-Lawrence marine mammals, enjoy
Quatre saisons
© Robert Chiasson
© Tourisme Charlevoix
© Genevieve LeSieur - Bleu Outremer
© Robert Chiasson
© Croisières AML, Renaud Pintiaux
© Mathieu Dupuis, Parc national des
Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, Sépaq
Another season, another world!
the cultural effervescence and tour the
agritourism operators at a time when
farms and producers are in full activity.
You have liked the winter? You will love
the summer!
For more information:
www.tourisme-charlevoix.com
W W W. C H A R L E VO I X T O U R I S M . C O M