Explore the captivating Gaspé Peninsula, one of the most scenic drives in Quebec. It’s definitely a trip of a lifetime and a must-see destination. This adventurous road trip hugs the shores of the mighty Saint Lawrence from Quebec City. It offers unlimited outdoor activities, four National Parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and striking landscape features like Percé Rock and the Red Rock shores.
This area boasts some of North America’s best whale watching and birdwatching opportunities, along with exceptional geology.
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Top Scenic Drive in Quebec
Gaspé Peninsula scenic route 132 from Quebec City
The stunning, rugged Gaspé Peninsula route takes you on a complete loop from Quebec City. The views are absolutely breathtaking.
This captivating scenic drive in Quebec is almost 1,700 km long and can be toured at a leisurely pace in seven to ten days.
Tour the Gaspé Peninsula on Route 132, one of Quebec’s most scenic drives. Photo: Roger St-Laurent/Tourisme Gaspésie
Discover the spectacular wilderness areas of the many provincial and national parks. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites and access Quebec’s oldest lighthouse and Canada’s tallest lighthouse, which are both National Historic Sites.
Marvel at the dramatic landscape features like Percé Rock and the red rock shores.
There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, water activities, and wildlife viewing, including birdwatching and whale-watching.
Up to 13 different types of whales can be found in the coastal waters of the St. Lawrence. Watch for humpbacks and the largest mammal on earth, the blue whale. Various whale-watching adventures are available at Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspesie, and Cote-Nord, allowing you to observe these incredible creatures in their natural environment.
Learn about the rich diverse cultures of English Loyalists, Acadians, the Basque, the Irish, Jersey Islanders, and First Nations peoples.
Sample unique culinary delights and shop for handcrafted wares from the many artisans along the way.
Take the Tadoussac – Québec 138 ferry to Tadoussac
The ferry from Baie-Sainte-Catherine to Tadoussac operates year-round and free of charge. This short but scenic journey across the Saguenay River takes just 10 minutes, yet it offers a moment to pause, breathe in the crisp maritime air, and soak in views of the river’s deep blue waters.
The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
From May through October, you can view a variety of whales and other migratory marine species along the St. Lawrence Marine Park.
Many at-risk species are found in the waters here, including the blue whale, the world’s largest whale species.
The Beluga Whale gives birth in several areas of the marine park. Find out more about the park.
Forillon National Park
Impressive seascape and mountain views can be found in Forillon, Quebec’s first National Park. Explore several heritage sites, including the Cape Gaspé Lighthouse.
Find out more about Forillon National Park.
Stunning sunset views from Forillon National Park. Photo: Parks Canada
Miguasha National Park a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Twenty-one different types of fish have been discovered in the rich fossil beds at Miguasha National Park.
It’s hard to imagine that more than 360 million years ago, this entire area had a tropical climate with warm waters. The fossils found at this location date back two million years. This Devonian period “Age of Fishes” fossil site is the only one designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This site is a significant scientific find that shows proof of major steps in evolution. Evidence indicates that some fish here evolved into four-limbed animals.
Northern shore of the Gaspé Peninsula found on one of the most scenic drives in Quebec. Photo: Michel Laverdière, Tourism Quebec
The red rock shores of the Gaspé Peninsula are on one of the most scenic drives in Quebec. Photo: Tourism Quebec
Route 132, one of the most scenic roads in Quebec, along the north shore of Gaspé Peninsula. Photo Mathieu Dupuis Gaspésie Tourism
The incredible natural environment of Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher‑Percé features:
- The impressive Percé Rock is found at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula.
- Île Bonaventure (Bonaventure Island) is home to North America’s largest migratory bird sanctuary. It has 11 different species of more than 200,000 breeding birds. Here, you can see North America’s largest colony of 110,000 Northern gannets.
Find out more about the park and download the Discovery Guide.
Admire breathtaking views of Percé Rock from the Percé UNESCO Global Geopark’s suspended glass platform perched 200 metres high on the edge of a cliff.
Discover more about this region’s national parks and other natural sites.
View of Percé Rock on one of Quebec’s most scenic drives travelling around the Gaspe Peninsula. Credit: By François Rivard,Tourism Quebec
About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
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