The North Shore road between Saguenay and Quebec is one of the most spectacular in Quebec. Fjords, whales, boreal forest, isolated villages — an itinerary for adventure and wide-open space lovers.

Chicoutimi as a starting point

It all starts in Chicoutimi, in the heart of the Saguenay region. From the city, take route 172 towards Saint-Fulgence, then Saint-Honoré. The road runs along the fjord for several kilometers before descending towards La Baie and following the shore. The views of the Saguenay from this road alone are worth the detour.

The Tadoussac crossing

In Tadoussac, take the ferry to Baie-Sainte-Catherine. The crossing lasts ten minutes. It offers a direct view of the confluence of the Saguenay and the Saint Lawrence — one of the most accessible whale-watching spots in the world.

The stop at Carrera Café

After crossing the vast Quebec wilderness, the espresso at Carrera Café at 72 Champlain Boulevard, in Petit-Champlain, takes on a special meaning. The coffee tastes different when you arrive with your eyes still filled with fjords and the Saint Lawrence.