This is one of Quebec City’s great strengths that few cities can claim: less than an hour from Old Quebec, you find deep forests, tranquil lakes, snowshoe trails, and lakeside chalets. The city is an ideal starting point for nature getaways, whether for one night or a long weekend resort stay.

Before heading out to explore the surroundings, nothing beats a good coffee at Carrera Café to start the day right. Our house espresso, carefully pulled in Petit Champlain, is the ideal fuel before hitting the road toward Quebec’s nature.

Côte-de-Beaupré and the Massif de Charlevoix

Take highway 440 east, and in less than 45 minutes you’re in another world. Côte-de-Beaupré offers a succession of picturesque villages, spectacular waterfalls, and ski resorts. The Massif de Charlevoix is one of Quebec’s most renowned ski and outdoor spots, with a breathtaking view of the Saint Lawrence in every season.

In summer, the bike trails of the Cheminots corridor and the Montmorency Forest regional park attract hikers and cyclists from everywhere. In winter, it’s a white paradise: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, tubing, snowshoeing.

Charlevoix: the ultimate resort region

If you have two days ahead of you, Charlevoix is worth the trip. The Fleuve road winds between the Saint Lawrence and the mountains, passing through villages like Baie-Saint-Paul, La Malbaie, and Tadoussac. The chalets with views of the river are among the most beautiful in the province. And the region's restaurants, rooted in Charlevoix's terroir, perfectly complete the same journey.

The South Shore and the Appalachians

On the South Shore side, the Appalachians offer a lesser-known but equally charming vacation area. Bellechasse, Montmagny, L'Islet... regions where country roads wind between orchards, vegetable farms, and maple forests. Ideal for lovers of slow travel, freedom, and great tranquility.

The Laurentian Wildlife Reserve

North of Quebec, the Laurentian Wildlife Reserve is a vast wilderness of lakes, rivers, and boreal forests. It offers outfitter services for fishing and hunting, as well as cabins for rent and campsites for those who just want to get away from it all.

Île d'Orléans deserves a special mention: 15 minutes from Old Quebec, it’s a timeless escape with its cideries, artisanal cheese makers, and rural landscapes of rare beauty.

Before leaving: start with Petit Champlain

Whether your getaway starts at dawn or after a night spent in the neighborhood, Carrera Café is the perfect place to have a coffee before hitting the road. An iced latte for summer days, a hot chocolate or mulled wine for winter departures. Here you’ll find the energy and pleasure needed to start a beautiful Quebec adventure on the right foot.

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