Discover the majestic Whale Route!
Dive into a breathtaking journey into the heart of the wild nature where the spectacle of the sea giants awaits you!
Tadoussac -------» Blanc-Sablon
(Go Only)
When we talk about the North Shore, we talk about whales. These large mammals are present every year along the north shore of the St. Lawrence River. The route obtained its name because 13 species of whales and marine mammals frequent the shores of the North Shore. Among these, in the estuary, we find the largest mammal on the planet, the blue whale.
They can be observed on cruises, sea kayaking, or from the mainland. The great rorquals pursue their prey in the rich and deep waters of the Laurentian Channel, which runs along a large part of the coast. Its underwater relief constitutes a natural trap where plankton and small fish accumulate. This formidable pantry, fueled by the tides, allows us to discover, so close to the shore, the giants of the sea.
Follow this route along the St. Lawrence River and embark on an unforgettable adventure to encounter these mythical creatures in their natural habitat!
DAYS
Tadoussac, the gateway to the region, is part of the most beautiful bays in the world. Also recognized as one of the best places in the world to observe marine mammals, this picturesque village has everything to charm you! Stop for a 2-night stay in Tadoussac and its surroundings! Take the opportunity to discover numerous attractions and friendly accommodations.
- Activity suggestions -
Go meet the giants of the sea in a zodiac or boat. Immerse yourself in their natural habitat and marvel at this unique spectacle!
Several companies offer cruises in the Upper North Shore.
Would you prefer to learn more about whales and the river with both feet on the ground? At the Marine Mammal Interpretation Center, visitors can explore the world of cetaceans through videos, games, skeletons, and even immerse themselves in their sound environment.
A stop at the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Center is a must! Follow the hiking trail that will lead you to a spectacular view of the Saguenay-Saint-Laurent Marine Park! Overlooking the rocks that plunge into the river, take the time to admire the horizon and observe the whales feeding just a few meters away from you. Also, take the opportunity to listen to their powerful breath and observe seals and seabirds. For history enthusiasts, an exhibition tells the life of a lighthouse keeper.
Are you a fan of water activities? At Mer et Monde Écoutours, embark on a discovery of the St. Lawrence River aboard a sea kayak and let experienced guides deepen your knowledge about the marine ecosystem.
Have you always dreamed of exploring the underwater depths of the North Shore? The Marine Environment Discovery Center offers initiation to Nordic snorkeling and scuba diving in a stunning underwater setting. From the shore, you will also have the chance to observe whales, seals, and seabirds in the company of passionate naturalist guides and participate in discovery activities for the whole family.
JOURS
After 2 days in the Upper North Shore, continue your journey towards the East. Head towards Baie-Comeau in Manicouagan! As an industrial city on the North Shore, it offers breathtaking views of the river, and the vastness of its surrounding nature is accessible year-round. Stop for two nights and explore the surroundings!
- Activity suggestions -
Close to the St. Lawrence Estuary, at Pointe-aux-Outardes Nature Park. Just a few kilometers from Baie-Comeau, take a break at this park that will introduce you to nine distinct ecosystems, a sandy beach, trails, and various activities. If your schedule allows, spend a night in a giant birdhouse!
Pirsuq Expeditions offers sea excursions departing from the Baie-Comeau marina. Whether you want to observe marine mammals, go fishing, or dive to explore the underwater depths, Pirsuq will cater to your taste for adventure. Our experienced guides will accompany you safely and will appeal to the most curious by sharing historical stories of the region.
Looking for some adrenaline rush? Attitude Nordique offers a variety of activities that will allow you to explore marine flora and fauna in a different way. Zip-lining, Via Ferrata, paddleboarding, kayaking, and festive evenings await you!
Would you like to take a stroll along the waterfront and perhaps have the chance to spot a whale? Parc des Pionniers is one of the most enchanting sites in the city. It connects the heritage district to the marina. Well-maintained trails are accessible to everyone.
DAYS
Next destination, Sept-Rivières. Enjoy the road to admire the beautiful landscapes and make several stops to enjoy the magnificent seashores. Sept-Îles is, in terms of area, one of the largest cities in Quebec! Whether in summer or winter, its landscapes between land and sea make it an extraordinary outdoor destination.
- Activity suggestions -
Passionate about maritime history? Make a stop for a few hours at the Pointe-des-Monts Lighthouse near Baie-Trinité. Erected in 1830, this lighthouse was classified as a historic monument in 1964 by the Quebec government. Today, it is a true heritage museum, featuring seven floors that illustrate themes such as the lives of the eight keepers who worked there, navigation, and shipwrecks near Pointe-des-Monts.
A perfect spot for a picnic and a stop along the way, Rochelois Beach in Port-Cartier. A popular family destination, Rochelois Beach Park opens wide onto the St. Lawrence River, offering a view of the wreck of the Lady Era ore carrier offshore; discover the story of its shipwreck on interpretation panels. It features a picnic area, a playground for children, and access to the municipal cycling network.
Upon your arrival in Sept-Îles, embark on a discovery of the Seven Islands Archipelago aboard a zodiac! The archipelago, which gives its name to Sept-Îles, is a mix of diverse ecological environments highlighted by a rugged landscape of exceptionally high-quality marine scenery. Throughout time, they have witnessed whales blowing, dolphins leaping, terns diving, mollusks evolving, and little auks flying. Each of the seven islands harbors a treasure and a unique history.
Experience something unique with Ferme Maricole Purmer! They offer interpretation activities on scallops, mussels, and seaweeds, an agritourism adventure for everyone. Want to continue the adventure? Stay in one of the three yurts, which can accommodate four to eight people, available for rent. Spend the day on a paradise island offering swimming, transparent kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, sport fishing, and hiking.
DAYS
You've already traveled a good portion of Route 138 and you're about to discover Minganie! This part of the North Shore is a favorite among many travelers in search of vast spaces and island locations. Here, you'll discover, among other things, friendly people, countless unforgettable lakes and rivers, endless sandy beaches, the age-old serenity of monoliths, and the mysterious beauty of the flora in the Mingan Archipelago. A 3-day stay in Minganie is a must to fully enjoy this final stop on the North Shore.
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Are you looking for hiking trails to stretch your legs? From Sept-Îles to Natashquan, several developed (or undeveloped) areas are at your disposal and offer panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River.
A must-see in Minganie: the Archipelago of Mingan National Park Reserve! This iconic place is made up of more than twenty limestone islands and numerous granitic islets stretching along the coast between the villages of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan and Aguansih. It features the largest concentration of erosion monoliths in Canada, diverse flora, several species of seabirds, and two lighthouse stations. Enjoy your stay by sleeping on one of the islands in unique accommodation, a memorable experience to live!
Want to discover the Mingan Archipelago differently? Les Vagues, a young company from Havre-Saint-Pierre, invites you to discover the sea and the landscapes of Minganie from a new perspective. The paddleboarding specialized company offers various activities and excursions.
Finish your road trip on the Whale Route in Natashquan! This village has become legendary through the songs of Gilles Vigneault, Les Galets, and the hospitality of its residents. Connected to the road network since 1996, it's a place for cultural tourism. A long beach and swim-friendly water, rivers, and hiking trails await you. On the beach, at Café de l'Échourie, people exchange and chat; occasional shows in the summer season.
DAYS
Kegaska - Blanc-Sablon - Kegaska
Route 138 ends at Kegaska. It is on the Lower North Shore that the great seduction begins. The supply ship serving the region, the Bella Desgagnés, will take those who love to venture off the beaten path from village to village until Blanc-Sablon, the easternmost point of Quebec, on the border of Labrador. The 4-day journey takes place from Wednesday to Saturday only. Contact the destination specialists, Voyages Coste, to plan your stay on the Lower North Shore!
- End of the itinerary -
Your road trip on the Whale Route is coming to an end soon. It's time to turn back! Here are a few options for your return:
- Take the Bella Desgagnés to Blanc-Sablon and return to the North Shore via Labrador (Expedition 51).
- Retrace your steps along Route 138 and take one of the ferries to visit another region (Godbout, Baie-Comeau, Forestville, and Les Escoumins)
- Travel the 940 km between Kegaska and Tadoussac again and take the opportunity to make different stops and activities than on the way there.
