This route stops at historic and cultural sites along the St. Lawrence River in the Centre-du-Québec, Chaudière-Appalaches and Bas-Saint-Laurent regions. Driven by three centuries of navigation on the river, this route features a lighthouse climb, a boat excursion, sea kayaking, a fun circuit related to marine themes and more.
492.5 km
The Route des Navigateurs is best explored by car or motorcycle. Avid cyclists with a strong athletic spirit could also do it by bike, with sufficient preparation.
Unforgettable moments
Regions
Nicolet to Bécancour: fresh water river
The adventure begins with a stop at Parc écomaritime de l’Anse-du-Port – Passerelles de Nicolet, nestled on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Observe the wildlife from the park’s network of wooden boardwalks and its observation tower.
In the afternoon, climb to the top of the observation tower (16 m) on the Sainte-Angèle quay, for a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence River. This is also the main site of the city of Bécancour’s summer festivities.
Time-out in Bécancour
Explore four billion years of biodiversity, and learn about the age of dinosaurs and cavemen. A 360-degree wall projection takes you on a journey to the bottom of the St. Lawrence River. You can also observe urban fauna.
Welcomed by guides dressed in period costume, you will learn the history of this water-powered mill dating back to 1783. Still operational, it produces buckwheat flour, offers exhibitions, and boasts a shop, restaurant and patio.
Garden tour and maritime history
Begin the day at Domaine Joly-De Lotbinière. Nestled in the heart of nature, this magnificent site offers stunning walks in the forest, birdwatching, art exhibitions and mezmerizing flower gardens!
On the banks of the river, the Lieu historique national du chantier A.C. Davie showcases the history of this shipyard. After your visit, why not stroll around Old Lévis and enjoy dinner out at one of its great restaurants?
A day on the island
Today you have two choices: a cruise to Grosse-Île or Isle-aux-Grue. The first tour relates the tragedy of Irish immigrants at a 19th century quarantine station; the second, aboard the Ecotrain, tells you about the life of the island’s inhabitants.
From L’Islet to Saint-Jean-Port-Joli
The Musée maritime du Québec is a must-see, and a great opportunity to step aboard an icebreaker and a hydrofoil! Themed exhibitions and guided tours showcase the life of sailors and Québec’s maritime history. All aboard!
The Saint-Jean-Port-Joli marina makes this town all the more picturesque. Take a stroll in Parc des Trois-Bérets to admire the sculptures or attend an event. Cap off the evening at Ras L’Bock with a tasty craft beer.
Unique works of art and seigneurial life
After a good night’s sleep, head to Le Vivoir to admire the talented work of the artists exhibited here. This unique space abounds with creativity, and houses an art gallery, boutique and artists’ studios. Go ahead, treat yourself to a souvenir!
The Seigneurie des Aulnaies tells the story of seigneurial life in New France. The miller and guides dressed in period costume faciliate the tour of the mill and manor. The bakery offers organic flour milled on site as well as breads and pastries.
Beautiful villages in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region
Kamouraska boasts a rich heritage: enjoy a 16-panel walking tour of the village to explore such sites as the Miller quay, Morel and Leblanc avenues and their historic buildings and the Paradis mill.
After a day spent exploring Kamouraska, you’ll have worked up a thirst, which you can quench with a tasty craft brew at the Tête d’Allumette Microbrasserie. Enjoy a snack overlooking the magnificent St. Lawrence River. Cheers!
Rivière-du-Loup, the three bells city
True to its name, Parc des Chutes et de la Croix boasts a waterfall and a cross. Standing 33 m high, the waterfall is located right in the centre of town. The park spans 53 hectares of green space, and features trails, a lookout and a walkway.
Morning departure from the Rivière-du-Loup quay with Croisières AML for a whale-watching adventure on the St. Lawrence, home to 13 species of whales, seals and belugas. Be sure to dress warmly, even in summer.
Le Bic, a gem on the banks of the St. Lawrence
This park is a must. Its phenomenal landscape boasts rocky capes, bays, islands and mountains. Hiking, seal watching and kayaking are just a few of the activities available. You’ll be dazzled by the park’s beauty!
Enjoy a sea kayaking adventure in the magnificent Parc national du Bic, accompanied by professional guides from Aventures Archipel. You’ll glimpse beautiful seabirds and spot curious seals tagging along for the ride.
Rimouski and its maritime history
Take a short boat ride to l’île Saint-Barnabé to observe its wildlife and marine mammals. Interpretation stations tell the story of shipwrecks, smuggling, and the life of the islanders in years past.
Tour the Onondaga submarine to get a sense of life as a crewmember. You can even spend the night! Watch a multimedia show about the sinking of the Empress of Ireland, and climb up a 33-m lighthouse for a stunning view of the river.
