Riviere-du-Loup Attractions

A perfect balance between the ocean and the countryside, urban and rural development, history and contemporary art is what characterizes Rivière-du-Loup and its surrounding area. The pleasure of discovering the region lies in this balance. It is what defines the nature of the experience Riviere-du-Loup has to offer.

The region has always been influenced by its strategic location as a communications hub. Its architecture and natural environment combine to create an inspired and inspiring town with a flourishing “in the open air” culture.

Islands and coastal region:

De La Pointe Park: This enchanting park is located along the St. Lawrence, at the Point of Riviere-du-Loup. World-famous for breathtaking sunsets, you’ll also find a playground, a hiking trail, a long bike path, beach-volleyball courts, many scenic lookouts, an outdoor fireplace, picnic tables and barbecuing facilities. This park is accessible through Côte-des-Bains.
L’Anse-du-Portage et des Grèves Park: These two rest areas are located right along the St. Lawrence’s shoreline. Offering a magnificent view of the Pelerins Islands, they are located at each end of Notre-Dame-du-Portage and mark the trailheads of a 7-km bike trail that runs through the village.

Fontaine-Clair Park: Located along the shore of the St. Lawrence River, this park is the ideal place to enjoy a leisurely family picnic. It was used as a scene location for the television series “Bouscotte”.

Des Chutes Park: Located in the heart of downtown Rivière-du-Loup, this oasis of green space offers well-marked higking trails, nature observation and various family activities. Three distinct sections: The De la Croix Park, the Grandes Chutes sector and the Platin. In the Grandes Chutes sector, you can view an unforgettable 33-metre high waterfall and tour a more than 100-year old hydroelectric power plant.

Petit Témis lineal interprovincial Park, North Section: This 130-km biocycle trail, built along an old railroad track, runs through spellbinding landscapes. The trail includes many rest areas, a coffee shop as well as direct access to neighbouring communities. Trail maps are available at the Tourist Information Office. The Café de la Station restaurant is located in Saint-Modeste (a 12-km distance from Rivière-du-Loup).

Isle-Verte Municipal Park: This municipal park is located on the riverbank of Isle-Verte, near its wildlife reserve information kiosk. The park is one of three RAMSAR-recognized sites in Quebec. Permanent exhibits on salt marshes and peat bogs harvesting on display at the Maison Girard. This is the official departure point for the Heritage Tour.

National fauna reserve Marais du Gros Cacouna: Recognized as one of the best ornithological sites for Shorebird observation, this site offers several observation decks and hiking trails. Phone: 418 898-2757.

National fauna reserve Baie de l’Isle-Verte: Protected by an international convention on natural habitats (RAMSAR) List of Wetlands of international importance, the conservation of this wetland and its resources is recognized as essential to this natural heritage. Path follows the banks of St-Lawrence River. A permanent exhibit on the harvesting of peat bogs is on display at the Maison Girard, built in 1850. Address: L’Isle-Verte 371, route 132, phone 418 898-2757.

Road of Temptations of Viger:  Experience-based training and harvesting workshops where you will learn about non-ligneous forest products indigenous to the Lower St-Lawrence region (fiddleheads, cattails, blueberries and edible forest mushrooms. Address: Saint-François-Xavier-de-Viger, phone: 418-497-2302.

Sightseeing circuit of Île-Verte: Spend a stimulating day in an absolutely charming place. Bike or hike to the island’s three historic sites: Quebec’s oldest lighthouse, built in 1809, Michaud School and a Bones Museum, open daily from June 24 to mid-september. Phone: 418 898-4055.

Croisières AML, des Baleines et des Îles : Experience the thrill of a sea safari. Lead by experienced, bilingual tour guides, you’ll discover whales, learn about thier marine environment and observe the most spectacular inhabitans including rorquals, belugas, porpoises and seals. Daily departures from June to October from Riviere-du-Loup Harbour. Phone: 418 867-3361.

Duvertnor Society: Duvertnor Society (Société Duvertnor) offers a wide range of activities for families wishing to discover and explore the Lower St. Lawrence Region: guided sea excursions, sunset cruises, trekking and more. Various holiday packages and types of accommodations are offered including an overnight stay in a lighthouse and wilderness camping. Cottages also available on Île-aux-Lièvres. Departures from Riviere-du-Loup Harbour. Web Site: Duvetnor.com. Phone: 418 867-1660.

De Parke Reserve. Domaine Quatre Saisons: Nature at its best! Hiking, reasonably priced accommodations. Invigorating.
L’Estuaire, Cacouna / Isle Verte: Bike along a 12-km bike path connecting the ornithological march of Gros-Cacoune to the wildlife reserve of Baie de l’Isle-Verte. You’ll enjoy pure, healthy salt-water air to breathe all along this breathtaking and naturally made bike path, ideal for mountain and hybrid bicycles (Bring the kids!).

National Trail: This section of the National Trail (Sentier National) runs through the municipalities of Saint-Cyprien, Sainte-Rita and Squatec. Twenty-one kilometres of hiking trails both experts and beginners can enjoy. Trailhead is located at the north exist of Saint-Cyprien, on Chemin Taché Ouest.

Eco-Site de la Tête du Lac Témiscouata: Take advantage of this ecological site’s exceptional environment to learn about the ecosystem of the Lower St. Lawrence Region. Relax on a sandy beach, hike or go kayaking. Dozens of wilderness campsite available. Discover the unique location at the junction of Routes 293 and 232, heading north towards Squatec.

Lakes of Saint-Hubert: Three of the most beautiful lakes invite you to come for a swim. The municipal campground and the beach area at Grande Fourche Lake are ideally suited for family outings, water sports, trout fishing and cycling. Services are available from June to September inclusively.

Hunting and Fishing Club of Riviere-du-Loup: Club offering hunting and fishing clinics on occasion (reservations needed). Clay pigeon and skeet shooting available every Sunday (during the day) and Wednesday (evening). Opened every Wednesday evening and Sunday morning from May to September.

St. Lawrence Station: Located on the banks of the St-Lawrence River, biologists share their vast knowledge of the fascinating aquatic life of the river. Great family activity. Opened from June 17th to Canadian Thnkgiving (second Monday in October). Phone: 418 867-8796, Web Site: romm.ca.

Trans-Saint-Laurent Ferry: Enjoy a roundtrip excursion on the St. Lawrence River on board the N. M. Trans-St-Laurent ferry. This cruiser offers a play area and a supervised day-car centre, a restaurant-bar, gift shop and an elevator for travellers with limited mobility. One-way trip: 65 minutes, roundtrip: 3 hours; point of departure is the Riviere-du-Loup Harbour. Phone: 418 862-5094.

Boutique aux doigts de fée: While in Riviere-du-Loup, discover your own magnificent souvenir at the artisan shop « Boutique aux doigts de fée ». Painting wood and handmade gifts are the house specialities. Address: Rivière-du-Loup, 40-a, boulevard Cartier, phone: 418-82-3541.

Riviere-du-Loup Golf Club: This 100-year old golf course offers an 18-hole Par 72. Driving range, equipment rental and restaurant. Rivière-du-Loup, 132, route de la Montagne, phone. 418-862-7745.

Cacouna Golf Club: This magnificent, 100-year old golf course offers a nine-hole Par 36. Address: Cacouna 287, route 132 Est, 418 862-9649.

Bowling Center. Bar and family-style restaurant. Riviere-du-Loup 87, boulevard Cartier, 418 867-2480.

Land of Santa-Claus (Noël au Château): Welcome to the land of Santa-Claus. Make all your wishes come true when you visit and listen to a story, older than time. Opened from April to December. Riviere-du-Loup, 65, rue de l’Ancrage, phone 418 863-NOEL.

Club ATV’s L’Est-Quad: Fans of all-terrain vehicles will enjoy 170 km of marked trails. Rivière-du-Loup, phone 418 894-8495.

Club ATV’s Les Rouleaux des Basques: Fans all-terrain vehicles will enjoy 240 km of marked trails. Saint-Cyprien, phone: 418 963-1733.

Aster, Scientific Station of Bas-Saint-Laurent. Experience science in all its drama. This exciting activity will appeal to everyone, young and old. Featuring a multimedia presentation and telescopic observation of the skies. Learn about astronomy and meteorology. Observe shooting stars. Out of this world! Address: Saint-Louis-du-Ha!-Ha!. 59, rue Bellevue, phone 418 854-2172 or 1 877-775-2172.

Ranch CR: Located on a vast cattle farm, the ranch C.R. invites you to a memorable horseback riding experience. This is more than a simple trail ride on a horse you will discover the history, the life and the farming of this region. Saint-Fabien, 131, 1st Rang West, phone: 418 869-3484.

Barytine Saint-Fabien: Visit the remains of the brief mining epic of St-Fabien. Visit of the cave, cinema, minerals interpretation centre are the heart of this visit for the family, which allow you to discover the exceptional site of the barite extraction and to learn more about the mountains’ formation. Address: St-Fabien, Chemin de la Mine, 1st Rang West, phone: 869-3484.

Place Soleil : An ideal site for fun and recreation, this park will win the hearts of adults and children alike. In-line skating, tennis, volleyball and much more. Cacouna 418-862-0163.

Piscine d’Eau Salée: In the middle of Notre-Dame-du-Portage village, you’ll find a heated pool offering a unique experience of the shore of the St. Lawrence River. Open from June until August. Notre-Dame-du-Portage, phone: 418-9163.

L’Algue d’Or: A hands-on primer on papermaking, learn the process of making paper by hand and the technique of incorporating small pieces of algae and plants. Also worth discovering: local artisans and the Blanche Lamontagne Museum, Quebec’s leading female poet. Opened from May until October. Call for reservations during off-season. Île-Verte, phone 418 898-4075.

Écurie Paradis des Côtes: Enjoy the outdoors and breathe some fresh air while horseback riding or hiking. Two-day of hourly tours available. Interior and exterior horse manages. Opened year round. Kamoursaka 94, rang des Côtes, phone 418 492-3832.

Le Camp Richelieu vive la joie: This summer camp offers a variety of stimulating programs for children and teens. Address: Saint-Modeste, 26, route de la Station, phone: 418 862-59-19.

Bleuetière du Petit Lac Saint-Jean: Looking for the perfect activity for a fun-filled family afternoon? Visit the Pick-Your-Own fruit farm. A delicacy, made in heaven. Saint-Modeste: By reservations only, please call: 418 863-4692.

L’Éveil à la Forêt: The whole family will enjoy browsing through this tree nursery designed with originality and know-how. Symmetry, scents and the many nuances one can find in shades of green wil surprise and charm you during the local guided tour: Saint-Modeste, 410, rue Principale, phone 418 862-5511.

Erabliere Domaine du Sous-Bois: Celebrate spring’s arrival and appease your sweet tooth at this traditional maple grove. Feel like a kid again and complete this tasty treat by visiting a farm. Reservation needed. Opened mid-February until mid-May. Saint-Modeste, phone 418 862-5791.

Erabliere Richard: This sugar bush is certified organic and counts 17 000 taps every spring. In April, during sugaring-off, visitors can see how products are made. You can bring your own lunch if you want to stay longer. Tour the facilities and purchase products year-round. Call for reservations. Saint-Cyprian 418 963-2269.

Hydromellerie Saint-Paul-de-la-Croix: This shop sells honey, mead, pollen, candles, candies and more. Photographs illustrating the art of beekeeping. Café Restaurant and delivery service. Open from Easter until Thanksgiving. Address: Saint-Paul-de-la-Croix, 62, rue Principale, phone 418 898-2545.

La Fraisiere de la Ferme Feber: Address: Agrotourisme, now that’s different. Located at the bottom of a valley and surrounded by two rivers, this farm welcomes visitors from July until mid-August. Discover the unique and delicious taste of freshly picked and home grown strawberries. Pick or buy fresh produce on site. Saint-Hubert de Rivière-du-Loup, 174, route 291 Sud, phone 418 497-2146.

Noël Chez Nous: X-mas activity is a popular cultural event featuring a Santa-Claus parade, a sound and lights show, a Christmas Fair, spectacular ice shows and much, much more for the whole family: Riviere-du-Loup, phone 418 863-6635.
Intercollege Snow Sculpture Concours: Every year, this artistic event brings together ten to fifteen teams of young sculptors from across the province of Quebec. Anyone can appreciate and enjoy this public art. A must-see for the whole family.

Cross country skiing and snowshoeing: Accessible via Highway 185, the trail begins near a cabin that is located close to the La Mie du Voyageur restaurant. Twenty kilometres of marked with beacons trails. Also available: three heated rest areas, waxing rooms and equipment rental. Phone: 418 868-AMIS.

Ski Club La Foulée : Located 10 minutes away from Riviere-du-Loup, snow lovers can cross country ski on 35 km of trails. Warm up inside the club’s three heated shelters found along the trail. Equipment rental. Saint-Modeste, phone 418 862-5890 (other trails of the region: Notre-Dame-du-Portage – 10 km, Riviere-du-Loup – 10 km, Saint-Hubert de Riviere-du-Loup 5 km, Saint-Cyprien 4,7 km, Île-Verte (Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs) – 25 km, Isle-Verte – 57 km.)

Tube sledding: Bring the whole family tubing and rediscover the simple pleasures of sliding in the wintertime. Notre-Dame-du-Partage, phone: 418 862-9163.

Snowmobiling: For outdoor enthusiasts. This snowmobile club offers 150 km of marked and well-maintained trails.
Ice Fishing: Smelt fishing on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Rentals available: 2 or 4-person cabins and fishing equipment (rods and bait). L’Isle-Verte, phone: 418 898-2812, ext. 0.

Campgrounds:

De la Pointe Municipal Camping: 2, Côte des bains, Riviere-du-Loup G5R 1J8, tel. 418 862-4281, tel 418 862-0906.

Chez Jean Camping: 434, rue Principale, St-Antonin, G0L 2J0, tel. 418 862-3081.

Du Quai Camping: 70, rue de l’Ancrage, Rivière-du-Loup G5R 6B1, tel. 418 860-3111.

Le Rayon de Soleil : 571, rang St-Edouard West, Saint-Alexandre G0L 2G0, tel. 418-2677.

Parc Natur’ailes Camping and Chalets: Rue du Quai, Lac des Aigles G0K 1V0, tel. 418 779-2300.

Saint-Hubert municipal Camping: 351, 3 rang South, Saint-Hubert, G0L 3L0, tel. 418-497-3849.

De Faubourg Camping: 48, rue Villeray, L’Isle-VErte G0L 1L0, tel. 418-898-3428.

Saint-Modeste Camping: 230, rue de la Station, Saint-Modeste G0L 3W0, tel. 418 868-0383.

Camping rustique Le Myosotis: Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Doucleurs (Île-Verte), tel. 418-898-2443.

Blais Park, Rivière-du-Loup, an ancient postcard