11 Best Road Trips in Quebec for a Weekend Getaway

Quebec is Canada’s largest province; you’ll find many scenic drives and unforgettable road trip experiences. Quebec’s diverse landscapes offer something for every traveller, from coastal routes to mountain passes.

In this article, I’m sharing the 11 best road trips in Quebec, highlighting the best stops to do along the way.

Born and raised in Quebec City, I’ve been exploring Quebec’s roads for years, and these following routes have become our absolute favourites. They’re not just about the scenery but about the experiences along the way. They offer roadside picnics, unexpected wildlife encounters and moments you’ll never forget.

If you’re planning a family road trip in Quebec, you should add one of those 11 best road trips in Quebec at the top of your list.

1. The Gaspé Peninsula (Gaspésie Tour)

The Gaspé Peninsula tour, also known as the Gaspésie Tour, is a breathtaking 885 km loop that takes you around one of Quebec’s most scenic regions. Starting and ending in Sainte-Flavie, this trip offers an unforgettable journey through rugged coastlines, charming fishing villages, and stunning mountain landscapes. The entire loop takes about 11 hours of driving, but we recommend spending at least 5-7 days.

Highlights of the Gaspé Peninsula tour include:

• Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island: A massive limestone formation and bird sanctuary.

• Forillon National Park: Offers hiking trails, beaches, and opportunities for whale watching.

• Gaspésie National Park: Home to the Chic-Choc Mountains and diverse wildlife.

• Reford Gardens (Jardins de Métis): A world-renowned horticultural site.

• Miguasha National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fossil-rich cliffs.

2. The Whale Route (Route des Baleines)

The Whale Route, or Route des Baleines, is an 850 km scenic drive along Quebec’s Côte-Nord region, stretching from Tadoussac to Blanc-Sablon. This spectacular journey follows Route 138, hugging the northern shore of the St. Lawrence River. The route is famous for its whale-watching opportunities, with 13 species, including the majestic blue whale, frequenting these waters.

Key attractions along the Whale Route include:

• Tadoussac: The starting point, known for its historic hotel and whale-watching cruises.

• Saguenay Fjord: One of the world’s longest fjords, offering breathtaking views.

• Sept-Îles: A charming coastal town with an archipelago of seven islands.

• Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve: Known for its unique limestone monoliths.

• Observation points: Numerous spots along the coast for land-based whale watching.

3. The Eastern Townships Wine Route

The Eastern Townships Wine Route is a delightful journey through Quebec’s premier wine region, located southeast of Montreal. This picturesque route connects over 20 wineries across the rolling hills and charming villages of the Eastern Townships. The exact length of the route can vary depending on your chosen stops, but plan for at least 2-3 days.

Highlights of the Eastern Townships Wine Route include:

• Vignoble de l’Orpailleur: One of the region’s oldest and most renowned wineries.

• Domaine des Côtes d’Ardoise: Known for its sculpture garden and excellent wines.

• Léon Courville Vigneron: Offers stunning views of Lake Brome and quality wines.

• Vignoble Chapelle Ste-Agnès: Features a unique medieval-style winery building.

• Local cheese producers and artisanal food shops: Perfect complements to your wine-tasting experience.

4. The Charlevoix Route

The Charlevoix Route is a scenic drive that takes you through the beautiful Charlevoix region northeast of Quebec City. This picturesque journey along Route 362, the River Route, stretches about 58 km from Baie-Saint-Paul to La Malbaie. The route offers breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

Key attractions along the Charlevoix Route include:

• Baie-Saint-Paul: A charming artists’ town with numerous galleries and boutiques.

• Isle-aux-Coudres: A picturesque island accessible by ferry, known for its windmills and cider.

• Les Éboulements: A village offering panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River.

• Saint-Irénée: Home to the Domaine Forget Music Festival and beautiful beaches.

• La Malbaie: A historic resort town with the grand Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu.

5. The Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Loop

The Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Loop is a circular route around the vast Lac-Saint-Jean and along the impressive Saguenay Fjord. This 450 km journey takes you through a diverse landscape of forests, lakes, and charming towns. The loop can be completed in about 6 hours of driving, but we recommend taking 3 to 5 days.

Highlights of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Loop include:

Val-Jalbert Historical Village: A perfectly preserved 1920s company town.
Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon: Offers beautiful beaches and cycling trails.
Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien: A unique wildlife park with a train ride through animal habitats.
Saguenay Fjord National Park: Spectacular views and outdoor activities.
La Pulperie de Chicoutimi: A regional museum and cultural center.

6. The Laurentians Scenic Drive

The Laurentians Scenic Drive is a beautiful journey through the Laurentian Mountains, just north of Montreal. This route, which can be customized to your preferences, typically follows Route 117 and connecting roads, offering about 232 km of scenic views, outdoor activities, and charming mountain villages. The drive can be done in a day, but spending a weekend allows for a more relaxed exploration.

Key stops along the Laurentians Scenic Drive include:

Mont-Tremblant: A popular ski resort and year-round outdoor destination.
Saint-Sauveur: Known for its outlets, restaurants, and winter sports.
Parc régional de Val-David-Val-Morin: Offers hiking, rock climbing, and cross-country skiing.
Oka National Park: Features a beautiful beach and historic sites.
Route des Belles-Histoires: A themed route showcasing the region’s history and culture.

7. The Route des Navigateurs

The Route des Navigateurs (Navigators’ Route) is a scenic drive that follows the south shore of the St. Lawrence River from Baie-du-Febvre to Sainte-Luce. This 470 km journey along Route 132 takes you through charming riverside villages, historic towns, and beautiful natural areas. The route can be driven in about 5 hours, but we recommend taking 2-3 days.

Highlights of the Route des Navigateurs include:

Trois-Rivières: A historic city known for its Old Port and Boréalis museum.
Bécancour: Home to the Québec Biodiversity Centre and windmill park.
Grosse-Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site: A poignant reminder of Irish immigration.
Kamouraska: A picturesque village known for its heritage buildings and gourmet food.
Parc National du Bic: Offers hiking trails and opportunities to spot seals.

8. The Island Road Trip – Île d’Orléans

The Île d’Orléans road trip is a charming 67 km loop around this historic island just east of Quebec City. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, the island is known for its pastoral landscapes, artisanal food producers, and well-preserved New France heritage. The entire loop can be driven in about 1.5 hours, but plan for a full day to truly appreciate the island’s offerings.

Key attractions on Île d’Orléans include:

Saint-Pierre-de-l’Île-d’Orléans: Home to several art galleries and the island’s chocolate factory.
Sainte-Famille: The oldest parish on the island, known for its pick-your-own fruit farms.
Saint-François: Offers beautiful views from its eastern tip and a maritime park.
Sainte-Pétronille: Known for its vineyards and views of Montmorency Falls.
Local producers: Numerous stops for cheese, wine, cider, and maple syrup tasting.

9. The Matapédia Valley Drive

The Matapédia Valley Drive is a scenic route through the heart of the Gaspé Peninsula, following the Matapédia River. This lesser-known gem stretches for about 110 km from Amqui to Ristigouche-Partie-Sud-Est, offering a peaceful journey through lush forests and charming rural communities. The drive can be completed in about 1.5 hours, but we recommend a full day to explore the area.

Highlights of the Matapédia Valley Drive include:

Parc régional de Val-d’Irène: A popular ski resort in winter and hiking destination in summer.
Causapscal: Home to the Matamajaw Salmon Club, a National Historic Site.
Routhierville Covered Bridge: A picturesque historic bridge over the Matapédia River.
Site patrimonial de pêche Matamajaw: Learn about the region’s rich salmon fishing history.
Les Chutes à Picot: A beautiful waterfall accessible via a short hiking trail.

10. The Brome-Missisquoi Wine & Food Road Trip

The Brome-Missisquoi Wine & Food Road Trip is a gastronomic adventure through the Eastern Townships, focusing on the region’s renowned wineries and local food producers. This customizable route typically covers about 140 km, connecting the towns of Dunham, Sutton, and Lac-Brome. While the drive itself can be done in a day, we recommend spending at least 2-3 days.

Key stops on the Brome-Missisquoi Wine & Food Road Trip include:

Vignoble de l’Orpailleur: One of Quebec’s pioneering wineries, offering tours and tastings.
Au Diable Vert: A unique “VéloVolant” canopy cycle experience with mountain views.
Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac: Famous for its Benedictine cheese and apple cider.
Brome Lake Duck: Learn about and taste products from this renowned duck farm.
La Route des Vins de Brome-Missisquoi: A designated wine route connecting over 20 vineyards.

11. The Rimouski to Gaspé Coastal Tour

The Rimouski to Gaspé Coastal Tour is a stunning drive along the St. Lawrence River’s southern shore and around the Gaspé Peninsula’s tip. This 450 km journey offers breathtaking coastal scenery, charming fishing villages, and numerous natural wonders. While the drive can be completed in about 5 hours, we recommend taking 3-5 days.

Highlights of the Rimouski to Gaspé Coastal Tour include:

Parc National du Bic: Known for its coves, bays, and diverse wildlife.
Reford Gardens: World-renowned horticultural site in Grand-Métis.
Parc National de la Gaspésie: Home to the highest peaks of the Appalachians in Quebec.
Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island: Iconic limestone formation and bird sanctuary.
Forillon National Park: Offers hiking trails, beaches, and opportunities for whale watching.

Conclusion

Quebec’s diverse landscapes and rich culture make it a road-tripper’s paradise. From whale watching on the St. Lawrence to wine tasting in the Eastern Townships, these road trips offer unforgettable experiences.

Remember to take time, stop often, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

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Happy travels, and explore Canada one road trip at a time!