The weather is good, nature is at its best, calm has returned. The season that stretches between the end of summer and the festival of colors is ideal for (re)discovering the Pointe de la Gaspésie.
Treat yourself to an off-season getaway in one of the most beautiful corners of Quebec, who says better? A getaway of a few days or a week in the Gaspé-Percé region allows you to enjoy nature at your own pace and indulge in a host of activities in complete freedom. Overview of what awaits you there.
GASPE
Fill up on salty air at Forillon National Park
Renowned for its majestic cliffs dominating the ocean, its salt marshes, its dunes and its magnificent beaches, this park as large as it is grandiose has everything to offer. In the fall, whale watching is essential, since it is the ideal season to come across many species of cetaceans, and even, if you are lucky, the famous blue whale. Two types of excursions: cruises with guide-interpreters or, for those who prefer the serenity of a non-motorized approach, a guided outing in a sea kayak.
There is no shortage of beaches, starting with that of Penouille, a veritable spit of sand that juts out into the sea for two kilometres. Protected by the bay of Gaspé, it is distinguished by its relatively warm water, suitable for swimming and for the practice of paddle boarding or kitesurfing.
Also worth exploring for its historical side: Cap-des-Rosiers beach, which leads to the monument to the Irish, erected in memory of the castaways of the sailboat Carricks which ran aground there in 1847.
Finally, you can admire the maritime coast by taking one of the many hiking trails that criss-cross the park. The Les Graves trail, to be taken on foot or by bike, runs along Gaspé Bay and culminates at Cap-Gaspé (nicknamed the end of the world), and the new Banc trail offers a unique view of the cliffs. , the sea and the Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse.
For information: gaspepurplaisir.ca
PERFORATED
Discover a unique natural site and fauna in the world
Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé is a must-see destination and, if the emblematic rock needs no introduction, there is much more to see and do in the surrounding area! Starting with the discovery of Île Bonaventure, home to one of the largest colonies of northern gannets in the world, which comes to nest there year after year. A boat trip provides access to the site and, once there, it is possible to observe the birds up close by taking specially laid out paths, where guides-animators provide information on their habitat and their behavior.
The remarkable biodiversity of the Barachois de Malbaie will also delight bird watchers. During the fall season, you can observe migratory species, such as the great blue heron, the sharp-shinned hawk or the merlin, to name a few. A few kilometers away, the spectacular waterfall of the Emerald River Park is worth the detour.
Another must-see destination: the UNESCO Global Geopark in Percé. So designated in 2018 because of its landscapes of international geological significance, this immense territory is preserved as a heritage for future generations. To discover 500 million years of history and understand the formation of this exceptional coastal landscape, visitors can participate in a host of activities. Among these, the multimedia exhibition Tektonik, exploration of 23 geosites and a choice of guided hikes offering incredible views. The highlight: a stop at the glass platform suspended cantilevered over Mont Sainte-Anne, 200 meters above the village of Percé. A memorable experience that bridges past and present.
For information: tourismeperce.ca
This content was produced by Le Devoir’s special publications team in collaboration with the advertiser. Le Devoir’s editorial team had no role in the production of this content.