From Old Québec to whale country

Location: Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, Fortifications of Québec, Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux and Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Sites
Distance: 545 km round trip from Québec

Immerse yourself in the history of Québec and explore whale country on this 7-day trip. Visit a fortified city, follow in the footsteps of thousands of immigrants who passed through the Grosse-Île quarantine station and discover one of the best places in the world to whale watch in the Tadoussac area.

Day 1

Location: Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site, Québec, Québec

Start off by exploring the historic district of Old Québec! Hear fascinating tales as you walk along the Fortifications of Québec ramparts with a Parks Canada guide. Discover the lesser known streetscapes and heritage of the Old Town only accessible on this guided tour.

Location: Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site, Québec

In the afternoon, explore the remains of the Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux. located below the Dufferin Terrace. Head down the stairs under the Lorne Kiosk and discover the rich history of this archaeological crypt. Marvel at more than 120 artifacts dating back to the time of Samuel de Champlain. Retrace more than 200 years of diplomatic history with the First Nations through relations with the Huron-Wendat Nation, learn more about the governors and Huron-Wendat diplomats, and find out about the alliances between these nations at the very place where decisions that left their mark on North America were made. Enjoy the river view as you cross Dufferin Terrace and don’t forget to take a family photo with a cannon and the famous Château Frontenac in the background!

Day 2

Location: Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site, Berthier-sur-Mer
Distance: 70 km from Québec

Head to Berthier-sur-Mer! Take a boat ride to explore Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial. Follow in the footsteps of four million immigrants who made the long voyage across the Atlantic and live their arrival experience with Nurse Sarah Wade’s Medical Examination.

As you continue your journey, arrive at Rivière-du-Loup by day’s end. Follow the road along the river and discover some of Québec’s most charming towns. There are so many great places for tourists, including some serving excellent local cuisine.

Day 3

Location: Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, Baie-Sainte-Catherine
Distance: 180 km from Berthier-sur-Mer (ferry from Rivière-du-Loup to Saint-Siméon)

All aboard! It’s time to cross the majestic St. Lawrence River. Be on the lookout for birds and marine mammals. Make a stop at Pointe-Noire Interpretation and Observation Centre, the ideal spot for a picnic and for observing beluga whales at the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord.

Day 4

Location: Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, Tadoussac
Distance: 10 km from Baie-Sainte-Catherine

Slip on your windbreaker and hop aboard a whale watching cruise. You’re gazing at the horizon when you hear a loud splash! A whale! The excitement is at its peak. You’ll never forget the wonder in the eyes of those by your side. Spend the afternoon strolling through Tadoussac, playing on the beach, or finding the perfect place to chill out as you explore the Pointe-de-l'Islet Trail. Not tired yet? Explore the Fjord and go hiking in the tranquil Sainte-Marguerite Bay. Equipped with your backpacks or your bicycles, a 3-km trek will lead you to a panoramic lookout. Be patient, you might be lucky enough to spot some beluga whales.

Day 5

Location: Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, Les Escoumins
Distance: 40 km from Tadoussac

Dive into the heart of a marine park with a visit to the Marine Environment Discovery Centre and explore the fascinating underwater world—from the smallest invertebrates to the largest marine mammals.

Looking for an adventure? Head down to the diving base and scuba dive or snorkel in the cold but iconic St. Lawrence River. Considered one of the best diving destinations in North America, the Escoumins sector is sure to impress!

Day 6

Location: Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, Les Bergeronnes
Distance: 20 km from Les Escoumins

At the Cap de Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre, discover the historic buildings of the lighthouse station and learn more about navigation on the St. Lawrence River. Then head out on the rocks and try to spot the six species of marine mammals that regularly visit the park– including the blue whale, the largest marine mammal on the planet!

Day 7

Get back on the road and follow the St. Lawrence River along one of Québec’s most scenic routes, being captivated by sweeping seascapes and mountain views the entire way. As you travel through the beautiful Charlevoix region, pause and soak up the charm of one of its picturesque villages.

Distance: Return to Québec City, 215 km