A four-season paradise for adventure lovers, the region is also steeped in heritage and culture. Explore Route de la Nouvelle-France or visit the Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine for a living lesson in history!

Montmorency Waterfalls Park | Credit: Jeff Frenette Photography
Credit: Jeff Frenette Photography

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; the Centre d’interprétation de la Côte-de-Beaupré, rich in history and artifacts representing the area’s territory; 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.

While you're at it, why not visit some of the region's economuseums where local artisans showcase their skills—like La halte miel 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.

Shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré | Credit: OTQ / Guy Lessard
Credit: OTQ / Guy Lessard

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 offers an eye-witness journey into biblical times through seeing America's largest panorama.

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Canyon Sainte-Anne | Credit: Canyon Sainte-Anne
Credit: Canyon Sainte-Anne

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!

At Sentier des Caps trail in Charlevoix, dozens of kilometres 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 bird-watching sites, with over 180 species. It's also home to hiking trails, interpretive activities, and thousands of greater snow geese that gather there in the fall and spring.

Mont Sainte-Anne Summit | Credit: Olivier Croteau
Credit: Olivier Croteau

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 colour.

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.

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