A must-see in our summers, the Charlevoix region is no longer content to deploy its breathtaking landscapes, but to our delight, it highlights them thanks to talented artists who know how to combine sound and light and thus create magic. . Here are some new features not to be missed.
1. Flight of the Clockwork Bird
Lise Giguere
Credit where credit is due, let’s start the journey with “The Flight of the Mechanical Bird”, the very first nocturnal carousel on the mountainside. At nightfall, you have to go to the top of Le Massif station where small torches await the traveler to guide his steps on the path leading to a ski lift. Thus, between sky and earth, here we are, becoming a bird in this descent towards the river in the light of the moon and the stars. At the base, we take the lanterns back to follow a path again which leads to another chairlift which, this one, goes up to the summit. It is from there that the magic unfolds in nine paintings produced by L’Atelier Occhio, several of whose members have collaborated with Celine Dion or Cirque du Soleil.
This six-kilometre circular route including walking and two flights is unfortunately not accessible to people with reduced mobility or toddlers.
- Until September 4. Cost $39.50
- It is possible to enhance your experience by treating yourself to a dinner at Camp Boule, the Massif’s mountain refreshment bar. On the menu: three-course meal served between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., just in time for the start of the performances. Cost: $69.62
- You can also sleep in one of the magnificent chalets or refuges of the Massif.
- Info: www.lemassif.com
2. Charlevoix Memory City
Lise Giguere
Meanwhile, about 50 km to the east, in La Malbaie-Pointe-au-Pic, don’t miss “Cité mémoire Charlevoix”. From nightfall until 11 p.m., five artistic tableaux unfold in different places to tell the story of this part of the country.
This multimedia event developed by the Montréal en histoire company, in collaboration with Tourisme Charlevoix, was designed by Michel Lemieux and scripted by Michel Marc Bouchard.
The most impressive and majestic painting is the one on the Pointe-au-Pic cliff, near the Café de la gare, facing the river. These are five paintings that you can discover on foot, but that it is also possible to do by car, all for free, and this, all year round. In addition, there are up to 70 points of interest via the Cité Mémoire application (www.montrealenhistoires.com)
3. The Mysterious Island
Lise Giguere
To end the evening in style, we go to L’Île Mysterious, the new acquisition of chef Dominique Truchon from the famous inn-bistro Chez Truchon. Adjoining the hostel, its Mysterious Island is one of the most modern lounges, a small shop and above all a magnificent little exhibition on the world of Jules Vernes. Coming from a personal collection, this exhibition contains many small treasures such as a terrestrial globe that adorned Jules Vernes’ desk, original works by the artist, drawings, games, etc. A real journey into the universe of the one to whom we owe Around the world in 80 days and, of course, The mysterious island.
Info: www.ilemysterieuse.com
Other novelties
- In order to encourage the arrival of Quebec tourists and introduce them to its offer, Club Med de Charlevoix offers day, evening or complete passes allowing them to take advantage of all their facilities with unlimited meals and drinks. Info: www.lemassif.com
- We visit the exhibition Riopelle and popular art: found, stolen or stolen objects at the Charlevoix Museum in La Malbaie. A very nice little exhibition, made with Yseult, the painter’s daughter. It allows you to discover an amusing and very human aspect of this painter whose 100th birthday is underlined. Info: charlevoixmuseum.qc.ca
Lise Giguere
- Finally, in Cap-a-l’Aigle, the work to revive La Pinsonnière, the chic establishment which, for years, has attracted tourists from all over the world, is resumed. The first condos should be for rent in November. We can say that it looks great! Info: www.tourisme-charlevoix.com