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What to Do on an Autumn Road Trip in Charlevoix

Photo credit: Alain Blanchette

With its breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage, Charlevoix is the perfect destination for an autumn road trip.

Whether you're passionate about nature, adventure, gastronomy, or simply seeking a getaway, this region offers an unforgettable experience.

Renowned for its UNESCO-listed sites, Charlevoix reveals its charms in vibrant autumn colors, far from the summer crowds.

Prepare to embark on a sensory journey where each turn unveils a new wonder.

Here are some ideas to help you plan your autumn getaway in this magnificent region, just an hour from Quebec City.

How to Get to Charlevoix

La route des montagnes dans Charlevoix

Photo credit: Francis Gagnon

Charlevoix is a vast region with significant attractions in every direction. From Quebec City, it takes about an hour to reach Western Charlevoix, such as Baie-Saint-Paul.

If your activities take you to Eastern Charlevoix, like La Malbaie, the drive is approximately two hours.

From Montreal, add three hours to these estimates, not counting the photo stops you'll want to make along the way, as the viewpoints are plentiful.

To get there, after leaving Quebec City, take Route 138 towards Baie-Saint-Paul.

On your way, you'll traverse landscapes as varied as they are stunning: verdant valleys, sparkling rivers, and majestic mountains are part of what you'll see en route to Charlevoix.

Many travelers don’t venture beyond Petite-Rivière-Saint-François or Baie-Saint-Paul.

However, the various activities available across the region might lead you to explore one of the two main routes servicing these attractions.

The first, the "Route des Montagnes," stretches nearly 125 kilometers along Routes 381 and 138, allowing you to explore Charlevoix's backcountry.

This route includes two national parks at each end: Parc des Grands-Jardins and Parc des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie.

The second, the "Route du Fleuve," completes the loop between Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie.

This route offers a scenic journey along the St. Lawrence River via Route 362.

Along the 78 km route, you'll discover some of the most picturesque villages in the region: Les Éboulements, Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive, Saint-Irénée, and Île-Aux-Coudres.

This panoramic route, dotted with local shops, offers numerous rolling landscapes that beautifully characterize the Charlevoix region.

A few chalets for rent in this region

Where to Stay in Charlevoix

Cottage for rent in Charlevoix

Whether you're looking for a chalet with breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, or architecture that blends style and comfort, Charlevoix has it all.

Our chalets, nestled in dream locations, cater to all needs—whether you're planning a solo retreat, a couple's getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure with friends.

Each chalet is equipped to satisfy all types of travelers, whether you're on a ski, biking, snowmobiling, corporate trip, or celebrating special occasions like spring break, construction holiday, or the festive season.

Our accommodations offer a variety of amenities: waterfront locations, spas, pools, pet-friendly options, fireplaces, smoking areas, and even saunas.

To make your search easier, our website offers an advanced tool that allows you to filter by location, amenities, and specifics.

Easily find the perfect chalet and customize your stay for an unforgettable experience in Charlevoix.

Our wide range of choices ensures that your vacation will be exactly as you dreamt it.

Use our search tool to discover the ideal chalet in Baie-Saint-Paul and get ready to create memorable moments in this exceptional region.

What to Do in Charlevoix

Biking in charlevoix

Photo credit: Frédérique Sauvée

On an autumn road trip through Charlevoix, you'll find several must-do activities.

Explore the Route des Montagnes, a 121 km circuit connecting the Grands Jardins and Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Parks, offering breathtaking panoramas.

For food lovers, the Route des Saveurs will introduce you to local delicacies, such as ice cider and the region's renowned cheeses.

Be sure to stroll along Rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Baie-Saint-Paul, famous for its art galleries and charming shops.

Outdoor enthusiasts can try sea kayaking with Katabatik or explore the mountain biking trails at Le Massif de Charlevoix, where the autumn colors add a magical touch to the descents.

For a unique experience, go whale watching in the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park with boat excursions.

Golfers will find their paradise on Charlevoix’s three golf courses, two of which offer spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River.

Finally, end your day by trying your luck at the Casino de Charlevoix, where you can enjoy table games, slot machines, and stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.

Where to Eat in Charlevoix

Where to eat in Charlevoix

Photo credit: Elevate

Charlevoix is a foodie’s paradise where every appetite is satisfied.

Craft beer enthusiasts will love the unique creations from Microbrasserie Charlevoix and Microbrasserie Menaud, two must-visit spots to discover local flavors.

For a refined culinary experience, the restaurants Les Faux Bergers and Le Mouton Noir invite you to savor gourmet dishes showcasing regional products.

If you're looking for something more casual along the Route des Montagnes and Route du Fleuve, the region’s snack bars and food trucks offer simple, delicious meals often infused with local products.

Finally, for a quick yet tasty option in Baie-Saint-Paul, Joe Smoked Meat awaits with its comforting meals.