Picture-perfect scenery

A long peninsula bathed in the waters of the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence, Gaspésie charms visitors with contrasting landscapes ranging from undulating countryside to mountains overlooking the sea. In fishing and agricultural villages and small, dynamic towns built at the mouths of rivers, local residents have carved out a place for themselves in this region while preserving the natural world around them.

Renowned for its warm hospitality, Gaspésie has a population of about 140,000 people spread out along the coast and in the Matapédia Valley. The main road, Route 132, which forms a loop of about 900 kilometres (560 miles), is an iconic road trip (the Gaspésie Tour), recognized by both the Michelin Green Guide and National Geographic Traveler. Depending on where you are coming from, there are many ways to get to the Gaspé Peninsula.

A must-see destination

In the history of tourism in Québec, Gaspésie was one of the first widely known tourist destinations. Beginning in the 19th century, Percé—including legendary Percé Rock—along with Carleton and Métis were the first resort areas to welcome middle-class vacationers who enjoyed salmon fishing and the seaside. Furthermore, Gaspé has been considered the Cradle of Canada since Jacques Cartier erected a cross here in 1534.

A region of sea and mountains, Gaspésie is ideal for sea kayaking and scuba diving, as well as short or long hikes and cycling excursions. In addition, this region offers excellent opportunities for moose and caribou observation as well as whale and bird watching from the shore or during sea excursions.

An exceptional natural environment

The natural heritage of Gaspésie is truly exceptional. This region is home to Chaleur Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the world; some of the province’s highest summits in the Chic-Choc Mountains; world-renowned salmon rivers; Parc national de Miguasha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and three other national parks: Parc national de la Gaspésie, Forillon National Park and Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé.

Hikers can explore the wild beauty of the region along the 644 kilometres (400 miles) of the International Appalachian Trail, which runs from Matapédia to Cap Gaspé in Forillon National Park. In September 2015, the French Hiking Federation (FFRP) recognized the Québec segment of this trail as the first long-distance hiking route (GR®) in North America.

A multicultural mosaic

A welcoming land, Gaspésie has been shaped by the cultures and traditions of its various founding peoples: Mi’gmaq, French, Normans, Bretons, Basque, Rochelais, Acadians, Jersey Islanders, English Loyalists, Scottish and Irish. The influence of these cultures can still be heard in the accents, vocabulary and songs of modern Gaspésie. A number of historic and cultural sites, museums and interpretation centres celebrate the region’s history and talent. For example, 14 lighthouses dot the Gaspé Peninsula; in addition, the architecture of the region reflects its maritime heritage.

Gaspesian culture can also be experienced through local cuisine and regional arts and crafts. Epicures will particularly appreciate the subtle and highly prized flavours of lobster, snow crab, northern shrimp, fresh fish and other local delicacies. Furthermore, boutiques, studios and art galleries will introduce visitors to artists and artisans who create new and exciting worlds using age-old techniques and products.