Tadoussac
August 24 - August 31 2020
It was time for my husband and I to take a trip that lasted longer than a weekend, and while Covid-19 stopped our original destinations in their tracks, Tadoussac was no compromise. Only a 6 hour drive from Montréal, I wonder why I never considered visiting before. This is a hiker’s dream, and so often we felt transported to BC.
We stayed in a cabin located on the campground Au Sommet du Fjord in Sacré-Coeur-Saguenay. We wanted a bit more in the way of comforts, so we treated this trip like true Glampers.
There’s so many trails to choose from that are a part of the Parc National du Fjord-du-Saguenay. Your best options will be those located around you, as the National park is on either side of the Rivière Saguenay. The North side was our turf, so we made regular trips into the town of Tadoussac.
For the best poutine, or whatever greasy Québécois plate you have in mind, visit La Friterie.
Tadoussac is known for it’s whale watching, so we booked the Zodiac through AML. It’s a treat to see that many whales. We got semi close, but not as close as I would’ve liked. The driver certainly did his best. I was frustrated with their ticketing experience but it was worth it all the same. Bring a tuque, even in Summer - it’s insanely cold out there.
The most beautiful and accessible sites on the north side of the river were:
• Baie St. Marguerite
There is one trail that can take you out and back in roughly 2 hours, along the coast ending at a Beluga observation site - or you can continue and camp along the Sentier Du Fjord, ending your 4 day journey in Tadoussac. In Glamper spirit, we chose the 2 hour trail; it did not disappoint.
• Cap de Bon-Désir Observation Centre
North of Tadoussac along the St. Lawrence River, this stretch of rocks is the perfect place for some rock hopping and a picnic overlooking the whales that will pop up now and then.
• Les Dunes
I expected exactly what the name describes, which sounds fine, but these Dunes were way cooler then that mental image alone. Only 10 minutes from Tadoussac, these dunes slope steeply from a very high point, ending at the foot of a beautiful blue beach. Walking back up is a minor work out, which will be much needed between all your Poutine stops.
• Colline de L’anse A La Barque
If you want a simple 60 min up and down hike with great views, take this trailhead at the base of the Tadoussac Ferry. You’ll see a few hikers ending their 4 day journey here from the Sentier du Fjord.
* Day passes are required taking any trail within the National park - you can buy online, but don’t need to. We were always able to purchase on site.
** I highly recommend using the AllTrails app to help you plan your hikes.
Islet Point, Tadoussac
Islet Point, Tadoussac
Cap de Bon-Désir Observation Centre
Cap de Bon-Désir Observation Centre
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Baie St. Marguerite
Sacré-Coeur-Saguenay
Les Dunes
Les Dunes
Les Dunes
Les Dunes
Les Dunes
Les Dunes
Les Dunes
Zodiac Whale Tour, AML
Fly fishing spot off Route 172
Fly fishing spot off Route 172
Quai Anse de Roche
Quai Anse de Roche
Casta Fjord restaurant, at the Quai Anse de Roche
Off Route 172
Tadoussac ferry
Tadoussac ferry
Tadoussac ferry
Tadoussac ferry