Meet the whales of the St. Lawrence this fall

Attractions to discover, August 14, 2023 2023-08-14
quebecvacances.com
quebecvacances.com
© Renaud Pintiaux

In Québec's maritime regions, it's not just the changing colours that make fall so beautiful. September and October, which are outside of peak periods, are the perfect months to catch a glimpse of the 13 species of cetaceans that can be found in the St. Lawrence. Whales are present in large numbers, and their warm breath, expelled from the blowhole, is more visible as the weather cools. It's the ideal time of year to take a whale-watching cruise, an absolute must for anyone who wants to marvel at the flamboyant scenery and incredible displays of these marine mammals.

whale-watching cruise
Whale-watching cruise. Photo credit: Catherine Dubé

Take the Whale Route in Côte-Nord

With its endless beaches and breathtaking scenery, the Côte-Nord region is an ideal place to see whales. From Tadoussac, where the bay is renowned for the presence of cetaceans and perfect for a Zodiac or boat ride, follow the shores of the St. Lawrence along Route 138, the Whale Route. Take the opportunity to admire the colours and discover unique attractions, including the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre and the Marine Environment Discovery Centre. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled and try to spot the planet's largest mammal, the blue whale!

Follow the St. Lawrence Route in Charlevoix

Located between the river and the mountains, the St. Lawrence Route de Charlevoix is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in North America. This 78-kilometre route links Baie-Saint-Paul to La Malbaie, passing through L'Isle-aux-Coudres. In the fall, it's the perfect route for admiring foliage, enjoying the river and soaking up the maritime atmosphere on the way to a whale-watching excursion, not to mention visiting the producers, artists and craftspeople who put this region on the map. Take in the distinctive landscape that shines brightly as the days shorten, and discover many hidden treasures.

Whale Route
Whale Route. Photo credit: Renaud Pintiaux
Whale-watching
Whale-watching. Photo credit: Mathieu Dupuis

Enjoy fall in Québec on the way to the whales

All across the province, colourful landscapes inspire visitors to explore and make a whale-watching trip all the more memorable. In the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, the Fjord Route runs for over 200 kilometres through pretty villages and postcard-perfect fall panoramas. Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie are two other maritime must-sees, where you can combine your whale-watching journey with hikes in national parks, visits to workshops, walks on the beach and tastings of local flavours.

And if you’re visiting from out of province, make sure to spend a few days exploring the vibrant attractions and colourful backdrops Montréal, Québec City or Québec by the Sea regions have to offer before continuing your journey for the whale-watching experience of a lifetime.

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