The sea, the mountains, the road and you: this is what the mythical tour of Gaspésie promises! Here are 10 essential stops for a picnic, to stretch your legs or simply to admire the magnificent landscapes.
Métis-sur-Mer, a century-old village
A century-old vacation spot, Métis-sur-Mer boasts remarkable architecture and a seaside setting that make it one of the prettiest villages in Gaspésie. To take full advantage of it, leave the 132 and take Rue Beach which runs along the river (and becomes Rue Principale). Also plan a stop at the village café!
Anse-Pleureuse Lake, Saint-Maxime-du-Mont-Louis
In Saint-Maxime-du-Mont-Louis, watch for L’Anse-Pleureuse and the junction between Route 132 and Route 198, towards Murdochville. You will have to fork there to access one of the most beautiful rest areas in Gaspésie. A single stop at the edge of this lake nestled in the hollow of the Chic-Chocs Mountains will be enough for you to never forget it!
Panoramic stop, Grande-Vallée
Typical of the north of the Gaspé Peninsula, the villages that nestle in the hollow of the coves are the charm of Gaspésie. Arriving in Grande-Vallée, at the bend of a bend, this roadside rest area will show you a real postcard landscape.
Cap-Bon-Ami, Forillon National Park (Gaspé)
In Forillon National Park, the orange cliffs of Cap Bon Ami throw themselves into the sea. To walk a little while taking a breath of salty air, you will find on this site a staircase which gives access to a superb pebble beach. You can observe several species of seabirds.
Indian head rock, Saint-Georges-de-Malbaie
Have you ever seen a face in a rock? In Saint-Georges-de-Malbaie, between Gaspé and Percé, stop at the Tête d’Indien rest area, by the sea. read the caption there.
Aurora Peak, Percé
Before arriving at Percé, at the bend of a series of curves, the Pic de l’Aurore stopover reveals this impressive cape with a spectacular cliff that flows into the sea, as well as the fabulous Percé rock. Take advantage of the moment to admire the complexity of the surrounding geology.
Surprise Coast, Percé
On the east side of the village of Percé, be sure to stop at the Côte Surprise rest area. It takes its name from the astonishment that you will have at the turn of this coast, when you suddenly see the famous Percé rock.
Beaubassin Marina and Beach, Bonaventure
At Bonaventure, the river flows into Baie des Chaleurs, where a point of sand juts out to form a barachois. Take the time to observe the many sailboats and other boats in the marina, located in these calm waters. On the sea side, at Beaubassin beach, take a swim in the pleasant waters of Chaleur Bay.
Pointe Tracadigache, Carleton-sur-Mer
Avenue du Phare, which stretches all along Pointe Tracadigache, offers a magnificent view of the barachois of Carleton-sur-Mer. It is bordered by a cycle path, a beach and a campsite. At the very end stands a pretty lighthouse, near which you can hear tales around a fire in the evening.
Covered bridge, Routhierville
The Matapédia Valley is known for its salmon rivers and its many covered bridges. In Routhierville, a small hamlet south of Causapscal, take a brief detour to ride on the longest covered bridge still accessible in Eastern Quebec!
Vou can’t wait to explore Gaspésie in search of these fabulous viewpoints? To savor every moment, plan your stay at tourism-gaspesie.com. #gaspesie