The Saguenay region, Quebec: An all-in-one destination

On many of the road trips I’ve taken by van in Quebec, I’ve spent several days in the Saguenay region at different times of the year. And all I can say is that the Saguenay is a stunning region that offers a multitude of tourist activities to discover all year round. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast like me, a history buff or just looking to relax, the Saguenay has something for everyone, whether it’s summer under the glorious sun or winter under a glistening blanket of snow. If you’re planning to stay in the area, we’ve put together a guide to the best places to stay in the city of Saguenay.

Based on my own experiences, and those of the Charlevoix region, I’ve compiled a list of summer and winter activities to help you get the most out of this wilderness paradise.

As is often the case, we recommend activities that you can book on the Manawa website, a partner we’ve been recommending for several years now and which we personally use to try out other outdoor activities!

There’s already an article dedicated to whale watching in Tadoussac, but whale watching in the Saguenay is also an extraordinary maritime adventure that puts visitors at the heart of the region’s spectacular marine life. You’ll have the chance to sail the waters of the Saguenay Fjord, which offers a unique opportunity to observe these giants of the sea, such as humpback whales, fin whales and belugas, up close in their natural habitat. The boat trips are led by passionate and experienced guides who are keen to share their fascinating knowledge of the local marine life, as well as the geology and history of the fjord. As well as whales, you may be lucky enough to see seals, porpoises and a variety of seabirds. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast or a family looking for adventure, I highly recommend a whale watching cruise in the Saguenay for an unforgettable experience full of emotions and memories to share.

Instead of taking our own winter clothes with us, we decided to rent them for our trip to Canada, which was a really practical decision!

If you’re a keen hiker like me, I invite you to explore the many hiking trails in the Fjord-du-Saguenay National Park and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding fjords and mountains. I can guarantee that you will be rewarded with breathtaking views at every turn.

In a few words, I’ll describe some of the biggest parks you can find in the region:

• Fjord-du-Saguenay National Park: I’m going to repeat myself, but this national park, located along the majestic Saguenay Fjord, offers awe-inspiring scenery of rugged cliffs, lush forests and crystal clear waterways. Take advantage of hiking trails, panoramic overlooks and water sports to explore this natural gem,
• Monts-Valin National Park: Nestled in the heart of the mountains, this national park is renowned for its wild landscapes and glacial valleys. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing and fishing and wildlife watching in a spectacular, unspoilt environment,
• Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux: This park offers a unique wilderness experience with activities such as accrobranche, sea kayaking, paddle boarding and wilderness accommodation. Perfect for thrill seekers and families looking for adventure.

When it comes to hiking, you can imagine that most of the parks mentioned above offer a wide range of trails for all levels. But here’s my small selection of the walks I enjoyed, even if some of them required a bit of physical effort (the views are well worth it):

• Sentier de la Statue: Located in the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay, this is a very popular walk. It offers a panoramic walk to the magnificent statue of Notre-Dame-du-Saguenay, with spectacular views of the fjord and surrounding mountains,
• Sentier Eucher: Located in the Monts-Valin National Park, this trail takes walkers through dense forest to the summit of Mont Eucher, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It can be divided into several sections, depending on your walking preferences,
• Sentier de la Chute Sainte-Marguerite: Accessible from the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay, this walk takes visitors to a magnificent waterfall surrounded by green forests, offering a peaceful and refreshing setting,
• Sentier le Fjord: This is the trail with the most panoramic views of the fjord, as it runs alongside it. It’s marked as difficult and technical, so be sure to ask before you set off.

Another outdoor activity in this beautiful area is via ferrata: if you’re a thrill-seeker and not afraid of heights, don’t miss this incredible activity that allows you to explore the surroundings in a completely original way. It’s a great way to enjoy the mountains, breathtaking views of the Saguenay Fjord and a breath of fresh air. I personally had the chance to try this superb winter outing along the Saguenay Fjord, and honestly, it was amazing!

Cycling in the Saguenay is a different way to explore the region and a refreshing, immersive experience. If you’re a slow traveller or just want to stretch your legs for a day, the famous Véloroute du Fjord-du-Saguenay offers kilometres of scenic bike paths along the fjord’s shores, allowing cyclists of all abilities to enjoy breathtaking views of the region’s stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride with the family, a sporty outing with friends or a solo adventure, the Saguenay Tourist Office has itineraries to suit all abilities and tastes. In addition to the Véloroute, cycling enthusiasts can explore mountain bike trails in the surrounding national parks, as well as mountain bike trails for a more adventurous experience. Whether you prefer road biking, mountain biking or electric biking, the Saguenay promises miles of cycling fun and discovery, with possible stops at charming, picturesque villages and points of interest along the way.

During your visit to the region, take time to visit the picturesque villages of the Saguenay. Enjoy an authentic outing that will immerse you in the charm and history of the region. Nestled on the shores of the fjord or in the heart of the valleys, these villages offer a chance to immerse yourself in local life and discover the traditions and culture of the Saguenay. Places such as Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in Quebec, or Chicoutimi, with its rich historical and cultural heritage, offer picturesque strolls through streets lined with colourful houses, lively docks and bustling local markets. Visitors can also discover local crafts, sample regional cuisine in typical restaurants and meet the friendly locals for whom these villages are famous. Whether it’s a day’s exploration or a longer trip such as a tour of Lac Saint-Jean, a visit to the picturesque villages of Saguenay promises an authentic and memorable experience, steeped in the unique atmosphere of this enchanting region of Quebec.

Kayaking is one of my favourite summer activities, and I can assure you that fjord kayaking or river rafting in the Saguenay is a must-do tourist activity that offers a thrilling adventure and an immersive discovery of the region’s natural beauty. Gliding down the calm waters of the majestic Saguenay Fjord or braving the turbulent rapids of the surrounding rivers provides visitors with unique sensations and unforgettable memories. These activities are accessible to all levels, from beginners to the most experienced, and are supervised by qualified guides to ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants. In addition to the thrill of navigation, fjord kayaking and river rafting offer unique perspectives of the region’s spectacular scenery, including sheer cliffs, lush forests and abundant wildlife. It’s even a bit like New Zealand’s South Island for those in the know. Whether it’s a half-day or full-day adventure, fjord kayaking or river rafting in the Saguenay promises an incredible experience for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers alike.

The Festival La Noce Saguenay, or Festival des Arts de la Marionnette au Saguenay, is a vibrant celebration of local creativity and culture that attracts arts and entertainment enthusiasts from all walks of life. This annual event provides a dynamic platform for the region’s artists to showcase their talents through a variety of exhibitions, performances and artistic activities. Whether it is painting, puppetry, sculpture, music, dance, theater or other forms of artistic expression, the Festival des Arts offers a diverse program that reflects the richness and diversity of Saguenay’s cultural heritage. Visitors can stroll through art galleries, attend outdoor performances, take part in creative workshops and meet local artists for enriching encounters and exchanges. As well as stimulating creativity and inspiration, these events help to boost the region’s arts and culture scene, raise the profile of local artists and enrich the cultural life of the community.

Other festivals are well worth a longer stay in the region, such as the First Nations Gathering, where you can discover Quebec’s diverse aboriginal cultures, or for the foodies at heart, the Saguenay Wine Festival or the World Beer Festival (remember to drink in moderation).

As you might expect, and given my passion for vans, camping is one of my favourite activities. Camping in the Saguenay is an experience not to be missed, allowing adventurers to reconnect with nature in an exceptional setting. With its breathtaking views of the fjord, lush forests and crystal-clear rivers, the region is an ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts in search of adventure and tranquillity. Whether in a tent, motorhome or ready-to-camp van, outdoor accommodation options abound, giving campers the chance to choose the experience that best suits their needs and desires. From rustic riverside campsites to full-service campgrounds and secluded wilderness campsites, the Saguenay offers a variety of options for all camping styles. Not only can campers enjoy starry nights and campfires under a clear sky, but they can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, fishing and wildlife viewing. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a budding camping enthusiast, an outdoor getaway in the Saguenay promises unforgettable memories and total immersion in the region’s natural beauty.

As you know, Quebec in winter is an adventure in itself. I’ve already shared some great tips from the Mont-Tremblant area in an article, but it goes without saying that the Saguenay region is also a winter sports paradise, offering a range of ski activities to satisfy skiers of all levels and preferences.

Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes on downhill skis, explore the trails on cross-country skis or glide down the slopes at a leisurely pace, this region is full of opportunities for unforgettable winter experiences. Ski resorts such as Mont Lac-Vert and the Le Valinouët ski centre, located in the heart of the Monts-Valins massif, offer a variety of well-prepared slopes and a full range of services to meet the needs of skiers. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, the cross-country trails in the Fjord-du-Saguenay and Monts-Valin National Parks offer breathtaking scenery and trails for all levels. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline or tranquillity, downhill, cross-country or touring skiing in the Saguenay promises winter days full of fun, discovery and thrills.

I had to mention snowmobiling in the Saguenay again. It’s an exciting and immersive experience, no matter where you do it, and allows outdoor enthusiasts to discover the region’s spectacular winter landscapes in a different way. With its vast expanses of snow, groomed trails and varied landscapes, the Saguenay offers the ideal conditions for an unforgettable snowmobiling adventure. Thrill-seekers can explore scenic routes through snow-covered forests, along frozen lakes and up to mountain peaks with breathtaking views. Whether it’s a day trip or a multi-day excursion, the possibilities for snowmobiling adventure are endless in this northern region of Quebec. What’s more, snowmobile rentals and local guides are on hand to ensure participants’ safety and enjoyment. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, snowmobiling in the Saguenay promises to provide you with unforgettable memories and thrilling winter adventures.

To get a taste of what it’s like, I invite you to read my article about my snowmobiling experience in the Laurentians. I hope it inspires you to try it yourself!

We’ve also written a complete guide to where to go snowmobiling in Quebec?

Since the publication of this article, Sylvain and Mélanie have visited me in Quebec with their family. They were able to go snowmobiling in the Laurentians, a magical moment!

In the Saguenay region, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered paradise, offering unique opportunities for winter hiking. Trails winding through the national parks and surrounding mountains offer an immersive experience of the region’s unspoiled wilderness. Whether on snowshoes or cross-country skis, hikers can explore snow-covered forests, icy valleys and panoramic peaks while admiring the tranquil beauty of Quebec’s winter. Trails such as the Sentier du Mont-Édouard in the Monts-Valin National Park or the Sentier des 21 in the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay offer unique opportunities for discovery, with breathtaking views of snow-covered landscapes and total immersion in winter nature. From a one-day hike to a multi-day adventure, the Saguenay’s winter trails promise unforgettable experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Not to be missed is the Vallée-des-Fantômes trail in the Parc des Monts-Valins! This trail is a must in winter, with its natural sculptures created by snow and frost on conifers and trees. It takes you to the top of Pic-Dubuc, the highest accessible mountain in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, where you can enjoy a 360-degree view. Important note: you’ll need to book the Le Fantôme Express shuttle to access the trail. For more information, visit the SEPAQ website.

One of the quintessentially Canadian activities you’ll want to try if you’re on winter holiday! Ice fishing on the Saguenay Fjord is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers fishing enthusiasts an authentic winter adventure in the heart of Quebec’s wilderness. This majestic fjord, surrounded by sheer cliffs and breathtaking icy landscapes, offers a spectacular setting for this activity. Anglers can sit comfortably on the ice, drill a hole with an auger and indulge their passion in a peaceful, unspoilt environment. Whether it’s to catch native fish such as pike-perch or lake trout, or simply to enjoy the peace and quiet of winter nature, ice fishing on the Saguenay Fjord is a captivating experience not to be missed during a visit to the region. Not only does this activity allow anglers to get back in touch with nature and practise their favourite pastime, it is also an opportunity to share convivial moments with the locals.

Since then, we’ve had the chance to try this superb activity as a family. We tell you all about it in our article!

You’ve been on the move, burning calories skiing and trudging through the snow, so why not take a well-deserved break at one of the region’s Nordic Spas.
Nestled in peaceful, enchanting surroundings, these havens of tranquility are true oases of relaxation and wellbeing in the heart of the region’s wilderness, inviting you to recharge your batteries and unwind in outdoor hot tubs, Finnish saunas, hammams and thermal pools. You’ll experience total relaxation for body and mind. Surrounded by the natural beauty of forests, mountains or fjord shores, Nordic spas also offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, creating a soothing and revitalizing atmosphere. As well as relaxation facilities, you can enjoy treatments and massages by qualified professionals designed to relieve muscle tension after exercise, stimulate circulation and promote a deep sense of wellbeing. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a relaxing day out with friends or a quiet moment alone, the Nordic Spa in Saguenay promises a luxurious, rejuvenating experience that will leave visitors feeling refreshed, revitalized and ready to face everyday life with serenity.

Winter camping in the Saguenay is a unique experience that allows outdoor enthusiasts to discover the beauty and tranquility of the region’s snow-covered wilderness. Let’s face it, winter camping is not for everyone. Conditions are extreme and temperatures are quite low, but it’s a unique opportunity to pretend you’re Mike Horn, with breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, pristine fir forests and frozen rivers all around you. The Saguenay in winter is the ideal setting for a sensational winter getaway. Whether in a tent, heated yurt or rustic chalet, you can enjoy a night in the great outdoors while staying toasty warm. Activities abound, from snowshoeing on snow-covered trails to evenings by the campfire, watching the stars in the twinkling night sky. In addition to recharging your batteries and relaxing in an unspoilt natural environment, winter camping in the Saguenay offers the chance to experience unique adventures, such as seeing the Northern Lights under clear skies (when conditions are right).

Watching the Northern Lights in Saguenay is a magical and enchanting experience that attracts visitors from all over the world. In this remote region of Quebec, far from the light pollution of the big cities, conditions are ideal for admiring this breathtaking natural spectacle. On clear winter nights, the Saguenay sky lights up in shades of green, pink and purple, creating a hypnotic celestial dance that captivates spectators. Whether from the shores of the fjord or Lac St-Jean, from the mountain peaks or the vast snow-covered plains, each location offers a unique perspective from which to appreciate this extraordinary natural phenomenon. In addition to its visual beauty, seeing the Northern Lights is an incomparable sensory experience, with the whisper of the wind in the trees and the glimmer of the snow under the stars. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover or simply curious in search of magic, watching the Aurora Borealis in Saguenay promises moments of contemplation and enchantment that will stay with you forever.

In conclusion, whether you visit the Saguenay in summer or winter, this incredible region promises unforgettable experiences and memories that will stay with you forever. With its magnificent, lush nature, varied activities and warm welcome, the Saguenay is an all-in-one destination not to be missed on your next trip to Quebec.

As for me, I’m going back to my Quebec adventures, and if you ever decide to visit this beautiful part of the country, don’t forget to take a look at the complete guide to Montreal that I’ve written. It’s packed with useful information about this great city, and is often the starting point for your next adventure.

See you soon for more adventures!

Written by Valérie PLANQUE

I've been living in Montreal for 6 years now, and I take every opportunity to discover and appreciate this beautiful region of Quebec by sharing my personal experiences with you! You'll love it!

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