Rimouski Canada, Maritime Capital amid Natural Beauty
Located in the lower Saint Lawrence region of Quebec, experience the maritime culture of this scenic city. Fish for Atlantic salmon or kayak and canoe down the river. Take a daylong hike through scenic trails, then sample a unique mix of local and international cuisine. Satisfy a sweet tooth with chocolate, baked goods, and candy made from Canada’s famous maple syrup.
Historical and Maritime Attractions Abound
Situated on the shores of the Saint Lawrence River in Quebec, Rimouski is home to an array of maritime treasures. The Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père features an exhibit on the RMS Empress of Ireland disaster which commemorates the loss of 1,012 people in the most fatal shipwreck of the 20th century after the Titanic. Guests can board the HMCS Onondaga , a submarine that operated from 1967 – 2000. Learn about daily life as it was experienced by those who lived on the ship. Guests can also explore the machinery and technology used in undersea detection systems. Climb the 128 steps of Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in Canada. Learn about the role the lighthouse has played in the history of navigation. At Parc national du Bic, guests can take in a peaceful, relaxing setting while enjoying the sounds and smells of the sea. Here visitors can rent bicycles and take guided hikes. Camping is also available for travellers who want a more immersive wildlife experience. Constructed in 1750, the Lamontagne House historical site is one of the last surviving examples of a half-timbering, a type of construction dating back to the Middle Ages. Visitors will learn the customs of families in this region in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Musée régional de Rimouski is located downtown and faces the river. It is the oldest stone church in Eastern Quebec and now houses modern art, community history, science, and technology. With a few hotels located within walking distance of downtown Rimouski, guests will find it easy to explore this maritime city.
Natural Canadian Wonders
Visitors with a penchant for nature and the natural beauty all around will enjoy exploring the surrounding Rimouski area. The Grand Sault waterfall is the entry point to Hells’ Gate Canyon offering hiking trails that stretch for five miles. Ranging from easy to intermediate, guests can trek across a suspended footbridge and be entranced by the breath-taking views. Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer (Hells’ Gate Canyon) begins with the Grand Sault waterfall and stretches nearly five miles. The hiking trails range from easy to intermediate, and take guests to breath-taking panoramic views and a 63-metre-high suspended footbridge. Trek down the 300 stairs to reach River Rimouski. A rustic, un-serviced campground is onsite, along with an 8.5 km bike path and restaurant. Facing downtown Rimouski, Saint-Barnabé Island offers hiking trails and wildlife like great blue heron and common seal observation. Once a fishing camp, Les Jardins de Métis, also known as the Reford Gardens, is one of the premier gardens in North America. It is home to more than 3,000 species of plants. Spend the day wandering through more than 15 different gardens and walks, taking in the exquisite beauty on display. The onsite Estevan Lodge Restaurant features entrees that include more than 150 edible plants that are picked daily, and also highlights local products and producers, seafood, and sustainable fish.
Summer and Winter Sporting Activities
With the Saint Lawrence and Rimouski rivers on its front door, water activities play a large role in tourist travel to Rimouski. Guided kayak excursions offer exploration of the bays and coves close to the nearby islands. Visitors enjoy keeping an eye peeled for seals and eider ducks. These excursions are ideal for all levels of experience and ability, and clothing and security equipment are provided. There are several hotels within two miles of the Coastal Trails at the Rimouski River, perfect for guests who plan to spend their visit exploring the waterways in this maritime town. For guests looking to try their hand at sailing the high seas, several sailing schools and clubs are located nearby. Sailing lessons and rentals are available. For guests who prefer their feet to remain firmly planted on ground, Rimouski offers five local golf courses, including a championship-level course. Miniature golf is also available and fun for the entire family. The winter season is long and visitors can take advantage at the Centre de plein air Mouski. Here they offer classic winter activities like cross-country skiing, free-style skiing, and snowshoeing. Trails wander through a rich forested terrain and guests can spot deer as they traverse the trails.
Sweet Treats and Seafood
Rimouski offers a unique selection of dining options, ranging from Korean, Thai, sushi, steakhouses, fine dining, and cafes. But guests craving fresh seafood won’t have to look far. Many restaurants specialise in fresh, local seafood right out of the St. Lawrence River. Meanwhile, guests with a sweet tooth will enjoy Croqu’Érable, a local chocolate shop that makes homemade, old-fashioned maple fondant. Aux Bienfaits, another chocolate shop/patisserie, makes delectable treats like cakes, pastries, desserts, and chocolates made with pure chocolate. Homemade ice creams are available as well, and not to be missed. Citron Confit Bakery specialises in artisanal bread and pastries that are made without the 10 main allergens. Homemade, original recipes use ingredients made using mainly organic agriculture. Try traditional baguettes and multigrain breads, double chocolate cookies, mini chocolate banana bread loaves, a variety of muffins, and desserts like apple and chocolate raspberry tartlets.