Southern Lands: Gaspésie odyssey
A 15-day trip
Embark on an immersive adventure in the heart of the Gaspé Peninsula, where mountains plunge into the sea and every turn reveals a breathtaking landscape. For 14 days, let yourself be guided between the endless blue of the St. Lawrence River and the peaks of the Chic-Choc Mountains, along carefully chosen hikes that combine exertion, contemplation, and wonder.
Meet the warm and passionate people of the Gaspé Peninsula and the Indigenous communities, who will share their stories, their expertise, and their love for the land. Enjoy delicious moments savoring the flavours of Quebec's terroir: fresh fish, artisanal cheeses, local beers, and boreal products.
Throughout the journey, observe gannets in a spectacular bird sanctuary, paddle on the waters of the St. Lawrence River, search for the mythical mountain caribou, and discover the raw beauty of the peninsula from the water. Each day is an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature in this corner of the country where time seems to stand still.
Experience the rhythm of the Gaspé region: proud, wild and welcoming, for an unforgettable journey between sea, mountains and local communities.
Our itinerary
©Laurent Prevost
© Aventure Archipel
© Adrianne Letourneau
© Anouk Pinsonnault
© Gabriel Ayala
© Exploramer
© Charles Lambert
© Charles Lambert
© Anouk Pinsonnault
© Charles Lambert
© Clément Proust
Day 1
Welcome to Montreal
First steps in Quebec! Settle into your shared apartment and take the time to discover Montreal at your own pace. Depending on arrival times, a stroll through the lively neighborhoods or a delicious break at a local café will allow you to gently immerse yourself in the Quebec atmosphere. Welcome dinner and let the adventure begin!
A shuttle is provided for those whose arrival coincides with the group.
Day 2
On the way to the Lower St. Lawrence (1 night)
Head east along the road that hugs the St. Lawrence River, revealing the first landscapes of maritime Quebec. A well-deserved poutine break awaits before arriving in the charming village of Kamouraska in the afternoon, renowned for its coastal scenery, fiery sunsets, imposing capers, and bucolic villages. Kamouraska, whose Algonquin name means “Where there are rushes by the water’s edge,” abounds with heritage homes of significant historical interest. It's no wonder it's a member of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec. In the evening, enjoy sunset drinks at a local microbrewery, practically with your feet in the water. Your first taste of the gentle charm of the Lower St. Lawrence. Settle into your cottage for the night.
Day 3
Exploring the Bic region (2 nights)
Following the Route des Navigateurs, which hugs the St. Lawrence River, our destination is the charming Bic region, a place where majestic cliffs, tranquil bays, and seal colonies coexist along the shoreline. After a short hike with panoramic views, we'll visit the village of Bic and meet a dedicated local artisan in their workshop. We'll spend two nights in a cabin nestled in this exceptional natural setting.
Day 4
Between sea and mountains in Bic National Park
A full day breathing in the fresh sea air of the river. In the morning, set off on a hike suited to the group's energy level: a ridge trail with breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River or a coastal path to observe the tranquil coves where seals and seabirds rest. At sunset, enjoy a sea kayaking excursion to admire the islands and cliffs bathed in the golden light of evening (depending on the tides).
Day 5
Sainte-Anne-Des-Monts, gateway to the Chic-Chocs (2 nights)
We officially enter Gaspé territory via Route 132, which winds its way through small villages and coastal panoramas. We explore the magnificent Jardin de Mitis, a living creation that blends vibrant colors with natural architecture. We visit local producers and market gardeners before continuing our journey to Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. We enjoy a two-night stay at the cottage, including a convivial evening.
Day 6
Hike in the heart of Gaspésie National Park
Today, we're heading to the heights of the legendary Chic-Choc Mountains, whose name comes from the Mi'kmaq language and means "impassable barrier." Among one of the oldest mountain systems in the world, we'll witness the rounded peaks shaped since the last ice age. Several hiking trails are available, offering opportunities to observe the diverse flora and fauna of the Gaspé Peninsula. A day of exertion and wonder awaits in one of Quebec's most beautiful settings. An invitation to breathe deeply in the heart of the Gaspé.
Day 7
To the ends of the earth (3 nights)
The day begins with a visit to Exploramer, where we'll have the opportunity to explore the mysteries of the St. Lawrence River and expand our knowledge of its species and the current state of fishing. Afterward, we head toward Gaspé. Along the way, we'll stop to admire an iconic lighthouse before discovering the town of Gaspé, which means "end of the world" in the Mi'kmaq language. Smoked fish from a local fish market will be served as an appetizer. We'll settle in for three nights in a cabin near Gaspé.
Day 8
Sacred lands and infinite horizons
Hike in the spectacular Forillon National Park, where the Appalachian Mountains plunge into the sea. Home to hundreds of seals and thousands of seabirds, this place offers a truly unique and immersive experience. It's a vibrant territory, marked by Mi'kmaq heritage and the legacy of the fishing villages that once dotted its coves. To complete this exploration, an encounter with Mi'kmaq culture is planned for the end of the day.
Day 9
In the kingdom of the gannets
Head to Percé! In the morning, enjoy a boat trip around the iconic Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island. Disembark for a hike in the heart of the Northern Gannet sanctuary, one of the largest colonies in the world (over 100,000 individuals!). Enjoy a picnic lunch on the island, followed by a free afternoon in the village of Percé before a well-deserved aperitif.
Day 10
The gentle Bay of Chaleurs (2 nights)
The landscapes change, the mountains soften, and Acadian culture unfolds. Along the way, discover the Acadian Museum of Quebec or Miguasha National Park, a site listed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. Settle into your cottage near Carleton-sur-Mer for two nights. Southern Gaspé welcomes you with its warmth and lilting accent.
Day 11
At the rhythm of the Gaspé rivers
A relaxing day on the water. An introduction to fly fishing with a local angler who passionately shares the art of salmon fishing. Then, a peaceful 2-3 hour canoe trip down the crystal-clear waters of the Bonaventure or Matapédia River. A unique experience to fully appreciate the rhythm of the region.
Day 12
River Memory (1 night)
Crossing the Matapedia Valley along a salmon river towards the Lower St. Lawrence. Once in Rimouski, we begin with a visit to the Empress of Ireland Museum, dedicated to the most significant maritime disaster in Canadian history, followed by a visit to the Onondaga, a submarine transformed into a unique museum right on the shore. We settle into a cottage near Rimouski for an overnight stay and a relaxing evening.
Day 13
Quebec, the grand finale (1 night)
The final major leg of the journey takes you to Quebec City. After dinner en route, explore Old Quebec with a guided historical tour of its cobblestone streets and European charm. In the evening, a themed dinner featuring stories and legends of Quebec provides a splendid conclusion to this adventure.
Day 14
Back in Montreal
Travel to Montreal in the morning. Dinner at your leisure before your return flight. The trip is drawing to a close, but the memories of the Gaspé Peninsula will stay with you for a long time.
A shuttle service to the airport is available for those whose departure time coincides with that of the group.
Difficulty level
Intermediate - advanced
Between 3 and 6 hours of hinking
Between 200m and 970m of positive elevation gain
2 half-days of hiking
3 full days of hiking
The trip includes
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13 nights in cozy cottage on double occupancy
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13 breakfasts
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10 dinners
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12 dinners at the cottage
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Comfortable van (15 passengers with high roof or similar)
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Carbon offsetting for van travel
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1 shuttle bus to and from the airport
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Access rights in the following national parks:
- Bic National Park
- Gaspésie National Park
- Forillon National Park
- Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock
National Park
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Entrance fees for these activities:
- Reford Garden
- Exploramer
- Quebec Acadian Museum or Miguasha National Park.
- Empress of Ireland Museum
- Onondaga Submarine Museum
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Ferry fees to Bonaventure Island
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Guided tour of Quebec City by accredited local guide (2 hours)
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Introductory salmon fishing activity with local fisherman
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Meet the locals
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Canoe trip down the river lasting about 2-3 hours (all equipment provided)
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Sea kayaking trip of about 3 hours (all equipment provided)
The trip does not include
3 dinners (days 2, 13 and 14)
1 supper (day 1)
Single occupancy room (supplement of $1300)
Alcohol
Tips for guides during guided tours
Tip for the special guest at the storytelling and legends dinner (in Quebec City)
Plane tickets
Personal and travel insurance
Price to be announced
Certain conditions apply
