As you all know we were quarantined for quite a while and as summer was approaching, we were itching to travel again. Unfortunately, that was not an option for us since all borders are still closed and we are not able to just take a plane and travel to whatever destination. For that reason, we decided to go on an epic road trip within Canada. It was a great opportunity for us to explore within and discover hidden gems on the way. We love road trips because we get to design our own tours with no time limit and as free as we can be.
If you are thinking of being behind the wheel and drive through the most beautiful scenery in Quebec, this is for you to read! We wanted to cover the best parts of Quebec so you can experience a slice of Canada for your next travel plans!
First Stop: Eastern Townships
It is a tourist region situated in southeastern Quebec. It borders the U.S and it is known to be popular all season vacation destination. People come from all over to visit these little towns and their largest organic farms, vineyards and fresh markets.
We drove from Toronto all the way through pristine villages and cities of the Eastern Townships for nearly 8 hours. Magog is a little town surrounded by rivers and mountains in Eastern Townships. The downtown area is popular for all its little boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. We also went strolling through Pointe Merry Park . If you just want to relax, have a quite moment , enjoy the views, this is the place. It has a nice lake and the mountain in the background is absolutely stunning. You will get to enjoy the view from every location in this park!
Sherbrooke is another gorgeous city we stopped at, it is the largest economical, political and cultural centre of Estrie. It is known to be the largest population of students.
Orford is a well known township in Quebec which has lots of things to do, and people specifically come here for skiing in Parc national du Mont-Orford. Also, since they have tons of vineyards for wine tasting , I recommend checking out Au Vignoble d’Orford, they are very hospitable and their fields are beautiful!
Second Stop: Quebec City
After spending few days in Easterntownships, our next stop was Quebec City. We drove sbout (249.1 km) via Autoroute 55 N and Route Transcanadienne/Autoroute 20 E and it took about 2 hours and 49 min. I have made this iteranary below which outlines all the places we explored in Quebec City and its in order. This is a demonstration for your perefct couple of days spending in this remarkable city.
Plains of Abraham
It is a historic site which takes you back to the battle that was fought between the French and the British. Today it has become a large public park where you’ll see people walking, biking, running, and even laying back on the field and enjoying the weather.
Old Quebec
Walking in Old Quebec is like walking in Europe, this is why people call it the French North America. It is vibrant, historical and full of life. you will find lots of small boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and plenty more. You would not want to miss visiting this city, and you can absolutely not forget to put on some comfortable shoes before exploring every corner of it.
Quartier Petit Champlain
It is a very popular neighbourhood in lower town and known for its shopping streets and local businesses. If you’d ask me, it’s pretty expensive for some items you would want to buy, but you’ll find cool things that are handmade and crafted by locals. It is also a great opportunity to support local business especially during these hard times for business owners.
Rue De Remparts
After couple of hours walking, we grabbed Italian dinner and found this spot with a stunning view. It was the most relaxing moment of the day.
Norte Dame de Quebec
Oldest church in Canada located at 16 Rue de Buade.
Place Royale
It is a historic plaza that most tourists visit. This square is very photogenic with loads of brightly painted windows and doors which people admire. As you can see below, there are beautiful flowers hanging out of the windows and I obviously couldn’t pass by and not snap a photo.
Parc national de la Chute-Montmorency
A large waterfall on the Montmorency River located 15 minutes away from Old Québec. Normally you would have to pay to enter this park, but because we went during quarantine, we were able to go in with no charge. There are several staircases for you to take which lead to few points to see the falls in different perspectives, they are all breathtaking!
Jaquies Cartier National Park
Jacques-Cartier Park is a park in Gatineau, Quebec. It is one of the largest most visited park in Quebec with high traffic during popular events of Canada. What’s special about this park is the scenic deep valley that cuts through vast mountainous plateau. It has plenty of trails for hiking, and you will end up seeing spectacular landscape views. Andrew and I hiked L’Eperon with a 210 meter elevation, 5.4km and it took about 2 1/4 hours.
Third Stop: Gaspé Peninsula
After everything we have seen in Eastern townships and Quebec City, our road trip couldn’t have gotten any better. We were waiting for this moment during this whole trip-to explore the northeast of Quebec, which is Gaspé Peninsula. As I was doing my research on this peninsula , I couldn’t keep my excitement from seeing all the beautiful destinations of its rim.
Where we stayed : Les Cabines Sur Mer
It is located at the top of a cliff by the sea. This place has a combination feels of the sea and mountains. It is also located at the entrance of Forillon National Park and Cap-Des -Rosiers highest lighthouse in Canada, which is a plus. Andrew and I sat out side every morning and evening for some relaxation, with a drink in our hands, and hearing the sound of the calming waves and chirping birds. If youre luckly enough, you will be able to see some whales from the Cabines. A true and unique haven which leaves your soul full with all the beauty of our mother nature.
Cap Des Rosiers ( Lighthouse)
The Highest Lighthouse in Canada. We were so lucky to have stayed right beside it and look at it during sunrise and sunset, truly magical.
Parc National Forillon
Located on the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, it is a mountainous area that borders on the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Bay of Gaspé. You will witness a diverse wildlife through hiking its trails, and mountains. Watch a blue whale, the largest animal on the planet, swim in Cap Bon Ami beach , hike along the shores and upon the cliffs. Forillon is naturally vibrant and it cant be missed!
Cap Bon Ami Beach
After a long hike up to Mont Saint-Alban, we sat up there for about an hour taking in all the magnificent veiws from the top of the cliff. Moreover, we were able to see Cap Bon Ami beach and the crystal clear water from the above. All I could think of at that moment was to take off my clothes and just jump right into the beautiful water!
On the way South ; Riviere Aux Emeraudes
Incrediable natural Falls situated at the bottom of a long staircase. You would have to drive through Chemin des Carrières and to the gravel pits and you’ll have a 15 min walk in through the woods. This place is a must see to enjoy a refreshing quick swim in its natural clear green water.
The Famous Perce Rock
Perce, is such a charming village, the moment you drive through it, you could see Perce Rock, Bonaventure Island just off the coast. Percé Rock is a huge sheer rock formation in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence on the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. It is known to be one of the World’s largest natural arches especially coming right in the water which makes it even more special. It is the main attraction on the entire islad of Gaspesie.
Highway 299 drive from south all the way up north cutting through the middle of Gaspe peninsula for Parc National De la Daspesie – Gite Du Mont Albert
This was truly the best ending to our 1 week road trip! It was the most scenic drive, with beautiful mountain views. I could finally say that I checked the East Coast of Quebec off my bucket list and I couldn’t be happier to be able to go on this trip with my husband Andrew and of course my fluffly son, Coby.
With Love
Krew voyage
Karen Kana 
This trip looks so beautiful! I loved the post and hope that I can do this one day!
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Thank you so much for taking the time and reading my blog and your lovely feed ! It’s Definitely worth it!
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You’re welcome! Thanks to you for the kind reply!
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Well done 👍 Karen
I love the pictures it looks wonderful, oneday will try this trip.
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Thank you so much for your feedback ! I highly recommend it, because Canada has a lot of beautiful places to explore!
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