16 stops along the Tour du Lac Saint-Jean scenic route

Imagine a 263-kilometer journey where every turn reveals a new aspect of this extraordinary region.

Whether you explore it by car, motorcycle, bicycle, or camper van, the Lac Saint-Jean loop is an iconic route where you never retrace your steps. Even the vast Lac Saint-Jean, which accompanies you throughout your journey, is never the same. Sometimes calm as a mirror, sometimes choppy as the sea, it sets the pace for your adventure!

As you pass through towns, villages, and Innu communities, discover hidden treasures, golden beaches, thrilling adventures, and authentic flavors. Enjoy memorable encounters and the warm welcome of the people of the lake. It’s simple: on this scenic route, every stop has something unique to offer!

Want to embark on this odyssey? Here are 16 stops to discover on your next road trip along the Tour du Lac Saint-Jean scenic route!

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Your itinerary for an unforgettable experience around Lake Saint-Jean

Starting point in Alma

Your adventure begins in Alma, the region’s tourist hub. With its outdoor activities, cultural attractions, summer theater, gourmet stops, and well-kept secrets, Alma lets you soak up the spirit of the Lake right from the start. You’ll also have access to all the essential services you need to fine-tune your trip. Take this opportunity to finalize the last details of your stay at the tourist information office!

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Stop #1 – L’Odyssée des Bâtisseurs

They say you have to know a region’s past to better understand its present. That’s why the Odyssée des Bâtisseurs is an essential first stop on your tour of Lac Saint-Jean! Discover the captivating history of the people who have shaped the region from yesterday to today through interactive exhibits, an outdoor trail, and a 360-degree immersive experience.

Stop #2 – Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon

Since we like to do things a little differently here in Lac Saint-Jean, we suggest you complete the loop in a counterclockwise direction!

After leaving Alma, Route 169 takes you to Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon, a natural gem featuring miles of sandy shores in a variety of hues—perfect for relaxation and water activities! Explore the 45 kilometers of bike paths on the vast peninsula that runs along Lac Saint-Jean and the Péribonka River.

Accommodations are tailored to your preferences: pitch your tent by the water, opt for a ready-to-camp site, or indulge in the comfort of a cozy cottage. RV’s are welcome in the Camp-de-Touage-les-Îles area in Saint-Gédéon, an idyllic starting point for

exploring the islands in this part of Lac Saint-Jean!

Stop #3 – Musée Louis-Hémon

After exploring Pointe-Taillon National Park, take Route 169 toward Péribonka, a small town with a seaside atmosphere located at the confluence of the river of the same name and Lake Saint-Jean.

This is where the Louis-Hémon Museum is located, Quebec’s first literary museum dedicated to the richness and diversity of French-Canadian literature, including the cult classic novel Maria Chapdelaine. Through the permanent exhibition “Péribonka, at the Source of Words,” let yourself be inspired and discover the sometimes surprising creative process of some thirty authors.

A gourmet stop at the Bistr’eau Pub Péribonka

All these discoveries are sure to whet your appetite… luckily, the Bistr’eau Pub Péribonka is just a short walk from the Louis-Hémon Museum! Stop by to enjoy some delicious food while taking in the breathtaking view of the Péribonka River and Lac Saint-Jean.

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Stop #4 – Centre touristique Vauvert-sur-le-Lac-Saint-Jean

After Péribonka, we suggest you leave Route 169 for a “little detour” lasting a few hours—or even a few days—to the Centre touristique Vauvert-sur-le-Lac-Saint-Jean, a popular destination known for its access to Lac Saint-Jean. At the site, enjoy a huge beach with a supervised swimming area, explore the waters by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, hit the mountain bike trails, and stay at the campground or in a cottage.

Did you know that the campground is located in the Racine-Vauvert sector, an area managed by the Grandes-Rivières du Lac Saint-Jean Regional Park? That’s actually the next stop on your itinerary!

Stop #5 – Parc régional des Grandes-Rivières du lac Saint-Jean

With its seemingly endless boreal forest and spectacular rivers, the northern part of Lac Saint-Jean is a true natural sanctuary. Whether you’re seeking a moment of contemplation or a more daring adventure, the Parc régional des Grandes-Rivières du lac Saint-Jean opens the doors to a vast playground of nearly 100 square kilometers divided into different sectors.

Hiking, backcountry camping, wildlife and plant observation, biking, interpretive activities: a wide range of experiences await you! Head to the Regional Park Visitor Center in Dolbeau-Mistassini to begin your adventure.

Stop #6 – Delicacies of Lac Saint-Jean

You can’t truly experience Lac Saint-Jean without tasting its iconic little fruit: the wild blueberry!

Leaving Dolbeau-Mistassini, Route 169 takes you to Albanel, where you’ll visit the ÉCONOMUSÉE® de la confiturière : bleuet sauvage, also known as Délices du Lac Saint-Jean. Here, this precious little fruit is transformed in every possible way: jam, jelly, syrup, desserts, candies, beverages, and more! Discover the craft of jam-making and the methods used to create these many products.

Stop #7 – L’Univers de Bilodeau Canada

Continue your journey through the vast farmlands north of Lac Saint-Jean to Normandin to discover a fascinating place: L’Univers de Bilodeau Canada. A tour of the facilities will introduce you to the fascinating world of fur processing and the exceptional craftsmanship of the furrier, bootmaker, and taxidermist.

Stop at Petite Chute à l’Ours

A few kilometers after leaving Route 169, at the border between Normandin and La Doré, a stop is a must at the Petite Chute à l’Ours lookout, which offers a breathtaking view of the turbulent Ashuapmushuan River.

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Stop #8 – Moulin des Pionniers

Welcome to La Doré, a peaceful town of just over 1,300 residents that has a lot to offer. Have fun with the family at the Moulin des Pionniers which offers a variety of activities: dive into the history of the sawmill through an immersive tour, then enjoy the obstacle course, zip line, water games, giant trampoline, and more!

From here, you’re halfway through your journey around Lac Saint-Jean. Savour this moment before heading to the next stop: Saint-Félicien and its many tourist treasures!

Stop #9 – Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien

Marvel at the vastness of Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien, a unique place where species from the boreal forest and the world’s cold regions thrive.

The tour begins with a walking section where you’ll encounter iconic species such as the polar bear, the red panda, and the Amur tiger. Take a break at the petting zoo to pet some animals and let the kids cool off in the water play area. Then, the experience culminates aboard the Parc des sentiers de la nature train to observe wildlife in semi-freedom. This unique face-to-face encounter with the animals is a highlight of your visit!

Stop #10 – Parc du Sacré-Coeur à Saint-Félicien

To round off your day in Saint-Félicien, take some time to stroll through downtown and admire the Ashuapmushuan River while enjoying a delicious ice cream cone.

Let your footsteps lead you to Sacré-Cœur Park, a place steeped in history where time seems to stand still. Every summer evening, as the sun sets, magic happens when the fountain comes to life in a spectacular ballet with the “Water, Sound, and Light” show.

Arrêt #11 – Musée de la vieille fromagerie Perron

You’re back on Route 169, covering the miles that separate you from your next destination!

The Musée de la vieille fromagerie Perron in Saint-Prime invites you to discover the history of this world-renowned cheese factory. While you’re there, make your own butter and sample some cheese for a memorable experience.

In Lac Saint-Jean, cheese is deeply rooted in our culinary tradition, just like blueberries! Be sure to visit the restaurant Chez Perron, just a few steps from the museum, to savor an irresistible poutine topped with fresh cheese curds. Take the opportunity to stock up on local products at the shop, which reflect the passion and expertise of our local producers.

Stop #12 – Plage municipale de Saint-Prime

You may have noticed during your trip: water is at the heart of the Lac Saint-Jean experience! Our inland sea reveals its sandy beaches, which are perfect for relaxing and swimming.

In Saint-Prime, there is a magnificent supervised public beach, ideal for basking in the sun or cooling off in the crystal-clear waters of Lac Saint-Jean. Access is free, and the beach is located near the municipal campground, the Saint-Prime sur le Lac golf club, and Véloroute des Bleuets.

Stop #13 – Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh – Kakanauelitakanitshuap

To fully experience Lac Saint-Jean, take the opportunity to meet the Pekuakamiulnuatsh and embark on a remarkable journey to discover Ilnu culture!

Mashteuiatsh, the region’s only Indigenous community, has long been a hub for gatherings rich in sharing and exchange. The Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh, nestled in the heart of the community, is much more than just a museum. It is a place of exchange and discovery that is a must-visit to learn more about the traditions and way of life of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh throughout the changing seasons!

You’ve now arrived in Roberval, and there’s still so much to discover along the way!

Let the intoxicating aroma of fresh bread guide you to the ÉCONOMUSÉE® de la boulangerie Perron. Discover the secrets of the artisanal baking trade and trace the history of this Roberval institution, founded in 1896.

In the afternoon or evening, head to the Roberval marina. Stroll along the breakwaters to admire the vastness of Lac Saint-Jean, while enjoying a gelato from Vache Copine.

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 Stop #14 – Village historique de Val-Jalbert

Halfway between Roberval and Chambord, on Route 169, lies an authentic village frozen in time: the Village historique de Val-Jalbert. During the guided tour of the convent-school, the general store, the pulp mill, and more, you’ll meet characters who bring this open-air museum to life.

Take the cable car up to admire the impressive Ouiatchouan Falls and Lac Saint-Jean, which stretches as far as the eye can see. To extend the fun, spend the night on-site at the campground, in a period house, a tiny house, or a mini-cabin for a complete getaway.

Stop #15 – Cristal du lac

Have you ever dreamed of stepping into the shoes of a prospector? Head to the ÉCONOMUSÉE® du prospecteur – Cristal du Lac, in Métabetchouan-Lac-à-la-Croix!

Find your own quartz crystals during a tour of an open-pit mine located right in the heart of the forest. For the little ones, the “Express Prospecting” activity lets them discover many mineral treasures in a fun and accessible way.

In the afternoon, head to the centre récréotouristique Le Rigolet to enjoy the free beach. In the evening, get ready for a spectacular sunset over Lac Saint-Jean!

Stop #16 – Miel des Ruisseaux

You’ve almost finished the scenic route! But there’s still one more attraction to see (and savor to your heart’s content).

On your way back to Alma, treat yourself to one last stop at the ÉCONOMUSÉE® de l’apiculteur – Miel des Ruisseaux. With a virtual reality headset, step into the mind of a bee and enjoy a fully immersive sensory experience! The glass beehive, meanwhile, lets you uncover the mystery of how honey is made.

The Tour du Lac Saint-Jean: Much More Than Just a Line on a Map

As you’ll discover as you travel along the scenic route, the Tour du Lac is more than just a simple itinerary. It’s a journey that unfolds to the rhythm of the lake, the seasons, and the people who give it its soul. And when you leave, you won’t be taking with you just a completed itinerary, but a living piece of Lac Saint-Jean deeply etched in your memory!