Day 1: Drummondville
Board the motorcoach, sit back, relax, and get to know your fellow passengers as you travel east. After arriving at the hotel and settling into your room, enjoy dinner with your new friends.
Stay: Best Western Hôtel Universel, Drummondville, QC (1 night)
Meals:
D
Day 2: Musée des Anciens Canadiens
This morning, travel the scenic byroads to Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, Québec’s woodcarver’s capital. Visit Musée des Anciens Canadiens, a prestigious museum and interpretation centre, where you'll discover the rich history of the region's artists and craftsmen. Explore intricate woodcarvings in a variety of styles, honouring the local craftsmanship. Afterward, continue your journey as you officially arrive in the stunning Gaspé Peninsula.
Stay: Hotel Belle Plage, Matane, QC (1 night)
Meals: B, L, D
Day 3: Percé
Enjoy a relaxing day as you travel to Percé, a charming village near the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, where you'll be treated to a stunning view of the iconic Percé Rock. In the evening, enjoy a delicious included group dinner, surrounded by the beauty of this picturesque location.
Stay:
Hôtel Le Mirage, Percé, QC (2 nights)
Meals: B, L, D
Day 4: Bonaventure Island, Percé Rock
Spend the day soaking in the peace and tranquillity of the charming village of Percé. From the harbour, take in views of Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé,
a true jewel of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The park includes Bonaventure Island and the famous Percé Rock, known for its impressive size, striking colour, and the unique hole at one end. Embark on a scenic cruise for an up-close view of the iconic rock, with the option to stop at Bonaventure Island. Here, you can explore walking trails that lead to one of the world’s most important Northern Gannet colonies.
Meals:
B
Day 5: Banc-de-Pêche-de-Paspébiac Historic Site, Matapédia Valley
Learn about the evolution of the fishing industry in Gaspésie at the Banc de Pêche de Paspébiac Historic Site.
Starting from the late 18th century, the site tells the story of the empire of two significant family companies from the Island of Jersey who were able to profit from the commercial fishing industry in the area. Continue up through the Matapédia Valley to complete the circle around the Gaspé peninsula.
Stay:
Le Navigateur Hotel, Rimouski, QC (1 night)
Meals:
B, L
Day 6: Ferry Across the St. Lawrence, Arrive in La Malbaie
Cross the St. Lawrence River by ferry today aboard the M.V. Trans-Saint-Laurent, a service that has been in existence between Rivière-du-Loup and Saint-Siméon for over 80 years. Enjoy the scenery on board the ferry during the 65-minute crossing, keeping an eye open for marine wildlife! With its unique underwater topography, the St. Lawrence River provides a summer feast for many species of whales. Travel to Québec City in the afternoon and check in to your centrally located, historic hotel. Freshen up and rejoin the group for an included dinner.
*Note: This day is subject to change due to the ferry schedule.
Stay: Hôtel Clarendon, Québec City (2 nights)
Meals: B, D
Day 7: Québec City
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Québec City with a knowledgeable local guide. This tour will give you an insightful overview of the city’s rich history and culture, highlighting its most iconic landmarks, such as the famous Château Frontenac, the historic Old Québec (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the stunning City Walls. Following the tour, you’ll have the afternoon free to continue exploring at your own pace. Québec City is full of hidden gems, from its cobblestone streets and quaint boutiques to its picturesque parks and scenic views of the St. Lawrence River. Whether you visit the Plains of Abraham, wander through the Petit Champlain district, or take in the city's vibrant art scene, there's something for every interest. Reconvene in the evening for an immersive experience at the Huron-Wendat Museum.
Enjoy a guided tour that delves into the history and culture of the indigenous Huron-Wendat people, and visit the Ekionkiestha' National Longhouse for a deeper understanding of their traditions.
Meals:
B, D
Day 8: La Sucrerie de la Montagne, Travel Home
Our journey westward includes a stop at La Sucrerie de la Montagne, a charming 'old-time' sugar shack where you can experience the traditional process of making maple syrup. Enjoy the heavenly aromas from the wood-fired bakery and indulge in a delicious Québecois lunch. Afterward, take some time to visit the gift shop, where you can purchase maple products or syrup for your first breakfast back home. As you board the coach, say “au revoir” to La Belle Province and continue on your journey home.
Meals: B, L
