The 5 Most Scenic Drives in Quebec

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Now, time to discover the best Quebec scenic routes to consider when planning your next road trip:

1. The Gaspésie tour

Considered to be a must-see destination by many Quebecers, the tour of Gaspésie is an 885-kilometre loop with breathtaking panoramas. On the east coast of Canada’s largest province, the St. Lawrence River steals the show and stretches as far as the eye can see. Driving from Montreal or Quebec City, you will follow the majestic waterway before reaching the tip of the imposing Gaspé Peninsula.

In Gaspésie, seascapes and rivers meet mountains and valleys, creating the perfect habitat to welcome many species of migratory birds and whales. Bonaventure Island is famous for being home to the largest colony of northern gannets on our planet.

This iconic circuit is a treat for water sports enthusiasts, especially near Chaleur Bay. Those who wish to keep their feet on the ground won’t get bored either. Nature lovers will be won over by the beauty of the Reford Gardens, as well as the Promenade de la Grave with its incredible views of the famous Percé Rock. You will have the opportunity to visit four national parks, such as Forillon National Park. Note that both Miguasha National Park, and the Percé UNESCO Global Geopark, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

2. The Route 138 or the Whale Route

This scenic route on the North Shore connects Tadoussac to Kegaska via Natashquan, so you can expect to drive for nearly 880 kilometres along the majestic St. Lawrence River. Route 138 owes its nickname to the 13 species of whales that are listed in this area. Among them is the great blue whale, the largest mammal on our beautiful planet. Humpback whales are also among the species you can encounter on the Whale Route.

This destination is ideal if you’re hoping to go on guided tours, boat excursions or kayak adventures to spot a whale yourself. Tadoussac, the starting point on Route 138, already has a lot to offer thanks to its Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre and numerous opportunities for whale-watching cruises. However, it would be a shame to stop there.

At the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre, whales can come very close to the visitors. A bit further on the road, the historical Pointe-des-Monts lighthouse, the Sept-Îles Archipelago and the falls of the Manitou River are not to be missed. The striking shapes of the large limestone monoliths in the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve are also worth the trip. And if you go all the way to the end of Route 138, you will have the chance to visit the house where Quebec singer-songwriter Gilles Vigneault grew up.

3. The tourist circuit including Routes 202, 237 et 213, or the Wine Route

Looking for scenic drives near Montreal? This 165-kilometer viticultural route begins in Farnham, just one hour southeast of Montreal. In the Brome-Missisquoi region, you can visit over twenty different vineyards. There are also plenty of restaurants and artisans in the area.

Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual drinker, you will appreciate the idyllic landscapes of the Eastern Townships while tasting good white, red, or rosé wines produced locally. Just remember: don’t drink and drive! A designated driver will have to stay sober for this road trip.

You can also stop in the village of Sutton or at the Brome Lake Ducks boutique for some shopping. In Sutton, you’ll find many vineyards and art galleries. It’s a feast for the palate and the eyes! Artisanal cheeses, meats, and souvenir gifts… you will be spoiled for choice! And after indulging in delicious wines, why not spoil yourself even more with a massage at the Euro-Spa health center or at the Balnea spa?

4. The Fjord Route

In Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, you can admire the southernmost fjord in the whole country. If you choose this itinerary, you can expect panoramic views all along a 235-kilometre tourist route. It takes about 5 hours from Montreal to get there, or 2 hours from Quebec City.

With its mountain views, numerous waterways and picturesque villages, the Saguenay Fjord is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations within La Belle Province. It is also possible to go whale watching on boats or try kayaking. Departing from Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, the excursion aboard the ship called La Marjolaine gives you a great overview of most of the fjord’s treasures. The Saguenay Fjord is an old glacial valley invaded by the sea. It has the rare characteristic of being an intercontinental fjord.

The route is particularly well-known thanks to the Saguenay Fjord National Park. The itinerary includes several interesting museums, such as the Fjord Museum or the Pulperie de Chicoutimi. You can also decide to spend all your time outside to enjoy the beautiful landscapes, perhaps taking a walk in the pretty village of L'Anse-Saint-Jean, or taking part in thrilling activities of the Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux.

5. The Route 132, or the Navigators’ Route

This tourist route extends over 470 kilometres from Baie-du-Febvre to Sainte-Luce. This option allows you to discover three beautiful Quebec regions, namely Centre-du-Québec, Chaudière-Appalaches and Bas-Saint-Laurent.

Along the way, there are many heritage sites and various activities for the whole family. The Anse-du-Port park or the Domaine Joly-De Lotbinière are ideal for people who love long walks in nature. Climb the observation tower on the Quai de Sainte-Angèle for a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River.

In addition to the beautiful landscapes, you’ll find all sorts of museums on Route 132. A stop at the Quebec Biodiversity Centre in Bécancour will allow you to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

As its name suggests, this route is perfect for boat lovers who will appreciate the Musée Maritime du Québec, as well as the Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site in Rimouski. Stop by the Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic site and climb his 128 steps, which makes it one of the highest lighthouses in Canada. Cruises are also very popular in the area, and a trip to Grosse-Île-et-le-mémorial-des-Irlandais or Isle-aux-Grues will give you a total change of scenery.

Feeling hungry or craving a craft beer? Stop for lunch at Saint-Jean-Port-Joli or Kamouraska, two charming villages halfway along your route.

That rounds up our top five scenic routes that will surely make you fall in love with Quebec, if you haven't already. You can consult the official tourist site of the Government of Quebec for more information on each one of them. Already planning you next trip? Find the inspiration you need by reading our article Planning a road trip in the US: Are you properly insured?. Safe travels!

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** Certain conditions, limitations and exclusions apply to all our offers. Please see intact.ca for more details. These offers are subject to change without notice. The information contained in this website is provided for informational purposes only. Your insurance contract prevails at all times; Please see it for a full discussion of protections and exclusions.