Let me tell you a secret. I’m always inclined to approach people who, with their road map unfolded on the hood of their car, are trying to figure out where they are. Sometimes they thank me, politely refusing my help. Other times, I meet some truly amazing people who are exploring Québec for the very first time.

Why take the Navigators’ Route (Route des Navigateurs)?

Last fall, I gave a hand to two Belgian couples who were starting a 20-day trip in the maritime regions of Québec. They had their itinerary all set up: a visit of Bas-Saint-Laurent, a short stay in the Gaspé Peninsula to take the ferry from Matane to Baie-Comeau and a drive back to Montréal through the Côte-Nord region. Their itinerary totally made sense, but in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, they were mostly travelling on Highway 20. Don’t get me wrong, I have absolutely nothing against the highway, but it bypasses so many of the region’s gems that I couldn’t help suggesting that they tweak their itinerary a bit and take the Navigators’ Route instead. Here’s why.

Coastline in the Kamouraska area
© Marc Loiselle

Above all, the Navigators’ Route offers magnificent views along the St. Lawrence. The Charlevoix and Côte-Nord regions reveal themselves from a totally different angle, not to mention the islands that give such a special character to the surrounding scenery!

A rich heritage, foodie stops and water activities

The Navigators’ Route runs through some of the most picturesque villages of the province, including Kamouraska, Cacouna and Notre-Dame-du-Portage, where you can not only appreciate the region’s rich heritage, but also satisfy your hunger at one of the many foodie stops along the way. Why not take this opportunity to fill your picnic basket with some of the local products available and savour them at a rest area by the water?

Kayaking in Parc national du Bic
© Marc Loiselle

Beyond the scenery, you’ll find many interpretation sites along the Navigators’ Route offering various cultural and sports activities. Whether you’re visiting an island, going on a whale watching cruise or heading out for a sea kayaking excursion, you’ll discover why the St. Lawrence is such a big part of our history and of our daily lives.

Ready to start planning your trip?

To help you plan your trip, download or order the Route des Navigateurs brochure, where you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip! You can also visit this page about the Navigators’ Route for more information or pick up the brochure in tourist information centres. Have a great trip!

For more information:
Tourisme Bas-Saint-Laurent
148, rue Fraser, 2nd floor
Rivière-du-Loup (Québec)  G5R 1C8
Canada
Toll-free: 1-800-563-5268 (Canada and the United States)
https://www.bassaintlaurent.ca/en/explore/tourist-routes/route-des-navigateurs/