The Saint-Félicien Wildlife Zoo offers rides on a train with open-air sides, hikes along walking trails, and fun in the water play areas—but above all, it’s home to a diverse array of wildlife, including 500 animals representing 86 different species!
The Historic Village of Val-Jalbert
A thriving village in the early 1920s, Val-Jalbert became virtually deserted once the pulp mill—the villagers’ main employer—closed its doors. Today, it’s a veritable open-air museum that you can explore on foot or by trolleybus, offering an incredible journey back to the 1920s!
Blueberry Cycle Route
This 256-kilometer cycling route runs along Lake Saint-Jean and passes through 15 municipalities and the Montagnais community of Mashteuiatsh, as well as providing access to Pointe-Taillon National Park and picturesque towns located along the surrounding roads.
Parc Octopus
The Parc Octopus, located along the Métabetchouane River, features a marina with about 60 seasonal and visitor docks, camping and lodging options, and water-based entertainment, including a giant inflatable water play structure.
Seasonal berry picking
Whether it’s strawberries or blackberries in June or July, or raspberries and blueberries in August, picking your own fruit is the perfect activity for kids (and parents) with a sweet tooth!
A Day at the Beach
All around the lake, you’ll find beautiful beaches. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic after stocking up on local products! Be sure to check out Vauvert Beach. Also known as Vauvert-sur-le-Lac or Vauvert-sur-la-mer, this fine-sand beach stretches for 8 km.
Pointe-Taillon National Park
Pointe Taillon is a sandy plain with an almost flat landscape, devoid of hills or mountains. It’s the perfect spot for water sports and swimming, or simply for lounging in the sun on the beach.
L’Odyssée des Bâtisseurs
Located in Alma, the museum complex L’Odyssée des Bâtisseurs will transport you back to the 1920s, to the era when the Isle-Maligne hydroelectric complex was built in Alma. On the agenda: exhibits, family activities, and educational workshops!
Trou de la Fée Cave Park
Discover the cave and canyon of the Métabetchouane River! A natural wonder, the park offers a setting typical of Quebec’s most beautiful landscapes.
Grandes Rivières Regional Park of Lac Saint-Jean – Energy Sector
Follow an interpretive trail to learn about the Innu people’s centuries-old use of the river and discover how hydroelectric power is generated. Explore the walking trails and footbridges, and take a look at the small hydroelectric plant!
Urban development around Lac Saint-Jean was heavily influenced by large-scale industry in the early 1900s. Of the 11 company towns established in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region between 1903 and 1956, six are located in Lac-Saint-Jean. It’s no surprise that the region is known as Quebec’s capital of company towns.
As you travel around the lake, you can discover and visit several of these architecturally rich towns that have left their mark on industrial history.
Val-Jalbert, 1901 (final plan established in 1915). Parent company: Ouiatchouan Fall Co.
Dolbeau (Quartier des Anglais), 1927. Parent company: Lake St. John Power and Paper Co. Ltd. in 1927
Chute-des-Passes, 1956. Parent company: Alcan.
All of these municipalities were built by large companies.
Today, most of these towns form neighborhoods distinguished by their heritage, architectural, and urban planning value.
Isle-Maligne and Riverbend stand out for their English-influenced architecture and their curved streets (circular layout). L’Odyssée des Bâtisseurs has created walking tours to explore these two company towns, which today form neighborhoods of Alma. For more information: https://www.odysseedesbatisseurs.com/planifiez-votre-visite/autres-activites/
The Anglais neighborhood in Dolbeau-Mistassini is characterized by its many townhouses, narrow streets, and immaculately white homes featuring architecture influenced by vernacular and Anglo-Saxon styles. The Maria-Chapdelaine Historical and Genealogical Society offers a walking tour to explore this neighborhood with its unique charm. For more information: http://histoiregenealogie.ca/
The most notable company town is undoubtedly Val-Jalbert, now a ghost town. Often compared to the city of Boston, Val-Jalbert was considered a model of modernism. This industrial hamlet, nestled in a traditional rural setting, stood out for its wooden homes equipped with running water, electricity, and bathrooms. Val-Jalbert is a must-see destination during your stay in Lac-Saint-Jean. For more information : https://www.valjalbert.com/fr
Source : Riverbend splendeur et déclin d’une ville de compagnie (1925-1962), Dany Côté, Société d’histoire du Lac-Saint-Jean, 1995, 232 p.
Make Your Own Cheese at the Perron Old Cheese Factory Museum
In this unique experience, we invite you to step into the shoes of a real cheesemaker and make your own cheese while discovering the various cheese-making techniques used to create the different types of cheese we have in Quebec. An ideal activity for food-loving families!
Collecting crystals at the Cristal du Lac mine
Are you a treasure hunter? Cristal du Lac invites you to dig in their open-air deposit to find your own quartz crystals.
You can also enjoy a hike right in the heart of the forest in Métabetchouan-Lac-à-la-Croix!
Watch wolves at Mahikan Park
As Quebec’s largest wildlife observation center dedicated to wolves, Mahikan Park invites you to watch wolf packs living in semi-freedom and learn more about pack life and how it works.
Try rock climbing at Escalade Haut Clocher
Are you a family of sports enthusiasts? Come climb the 10-meter wall built right inside the nave of St. Stanislaus Church. The center also offers a variety of classes and training sessions on indoor and outdoor climbing.
Canoe trip down the Mistassini River
Accessible and safe, the Mistassini River offers canoeists and kayakers sandy beaches and diverse scenery. The adventure can take the form of a canoe-camping trip or a day-long excursion!
Lac-Saint-Jean is a must-visit tourist destination. Every village you pass through is brimming with local products, friendly people, lush farms, and epic stories. Tony Paré, owner of Attractions Boréales and an avid motorcyclist, invites you to hop on your bike and set off on a 260-kilometer expedition around the stunning Lac-Saint-Jean.
From west to east
Our tour begins in Saint-Félicien, home to the famous Zoo sauvage and a perfect stop for wildlife enthusiasts. Continuing on our way, we arrive in Mashteuiatsh, where you’re sure to receive a warm welcome. The Mashteuiatsh Native American Museum awaits you with knowledgeable guides who will tailor their explanations to your interests. If you happen to be in the area in mid-July, you may have the opportunity to attend the Pow-Wow, the Great Gathering of First Nations. Before hitting the road again, stop by Saint-André-du-Lac-Saint-Jean (also known as Saint-André de l’épouvante) for a picnic by the waterfall.
Hit the road again and drive to Saint-Gédéon, a charming village that will instantly make you feel like you’re on vacation. The marina offers a magnificent view where you can enjoy a wide variety of local products. Treat yourself to a craft beer from the Microbrasserie du Lac, a delicious cheese from the Fromagerie chez Médard, or fresh bread from their bakery, or indulge in one of the village’s many restaurants. Once you’ve had your fill, continue your drive toward Alma via the countryside and the Route des Quatorze-Arpents. You’ll see vast fields and working farms—a bucolic panorama that will quickly help you unwind. If you prefer an urban atmosphere, Alma is a must-stop where you’ll find all the amenities of a small town.
From Alma, continue heading east to reach the village of Péribonka. This is a very popular stop for motorcyclists. You’ll soon meet fellow enthusiasts who, like you, have set out on the Lac-Saint-Jean tour. Take the opportunity to chat and exchange stories with them; you’ll likely make some wonderful discoveries. The tour of the lake wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the beach. Vauvert Beach offers 7 km of fine sand and a breathtaking view of the majestic Lac-Saint-Jean. You’re sure to be charmed by this picturesque landscape, where it’s a pleasure to stop and relax.
Heading a little north, you’ll pass through Dolbeau-Mistassini, home to the famous “Halte du Bleuet.” There, you’ll find motorcycle-friendly accommodations and information on local attractions, such as Mahikan Park for wolf watching or the 11th Falls Dam.
The lake tour ends in Normandin, just before returning to Saint-Félicien, where you absolutely must stop to stretch your legs. The hiking trails at Chute à l’ours reveal the beauty of the boreal forest, a spectacular way to end your getaway.
Fascinating animals adapted to the northern climate
No tour of the Lac-Saint-Jean region is complete without a stop at the famous Saint-Félicien Wildlife Zoo. One of a kind, the zoo features animals born in northern climates from all over the world. All of Canada’s biodiversity zones are represented, and more than 500 animals of 86 different species have made their home there—much to the delight of visitors.
For the Saint-Félicien Wildlife Zoo, it is important to recreate the animals’ natural environments to provide the residents with habitats that are as close to reality as possible. The spaces are large and stimulating for the animals, who are treated with the utmost care.
A Four-Legged Favorite
There’s no point in pretending—it’s impossible to resist the beauty of the animals at the zoo. To give you a quick overview, here are the must-sees you definitely won’t want to miss:
Gélada
The gelada is a large primate native to the highlands of Ethiopia. In Canada, the Saint-Félicien Wildlife Zoo is the only place where you can observe this fascinating species. Geladas’ facial expressions often make visitors laugh. To express their feelings, geladas tend to turn their jaws upward, creating a huge, rather goofy smile. Now very rare, the gelada is a magnificent species that you absolutely must see.
Japanese macaque
A member of the primate family, the Japanese macaque is one of the most northerly-dwelling monkeys. Thanks to its thick fur, the animal can easily adapt to sub-zero temperatures. Highly active, the three young Japanese macaques at the Saint-Félicien Wildlife Park will charm you with their acrobatics and energy. Often overlooked by visitors, they are nonetheless very endearing and certainly entertaining.
Tiger of Love
The love tiger is native to the Far East. Now on the brink of extinction, this animal is famous for its incredible fur. Still a sight to behold, with its imposing gait and striped coat, it’s a must-see on your next visit. Interestingly, a tiger’s stripes are like DNA and are therefore unique to each individual animal. Visitors are encouraged to observe the differences that make each tiger special.
Polar bear
A favorite among many visitors, the polar bear is always a must-see during a visit to the Saint-Félicien Wildlife Zoo. Their white fur, adapted to the Arctic cold, is sure to impress visitors, as are their massive paws, perfect for catching fish. You can watch the bears swim in their large pool or take a nap on the bank. The zoo is also committed to raising visitors’ awareness of global warming, which particularly affects this species.
Observing animals in their natural habitat
Si vous souhaitez contempler les animaux d’une façon différente, de multiples organismes offrent des expéditions sur le territoire du Lac-Saint-Jean, afin d’observer les animaux de la région dans leur habitat naturel.
With Aventure Raid, you can observe wolves living in semi-freedom. You’ll learn more about their way of life and how the pack functions.
Aventure Lac-Saint-Jean offers an expedition into the heart of nature to observe black bears and beavers. Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll find yourself right in the animals’ territory, ensuring an authentic experience with the region’s finest specimens.
Parc de la Pointe-Taillon is another prime spot for observing local wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some moose there.
Finally, if you’re a wildlife photographer, Québec Photogravie offers a photo safari by Zodiac boat on the magnificent Ouiatchouaniche River. You can also stay in a spacious observation tower in the heart of the boreal forest. The tower is equipped with everything you need to take high-quality photos.
The wildlife of Lac-Saint-Jean is a must-see and is sure to amaze you with its diversity.
My favorite spot in our MRC is the Scullion Garden, since it’s a beautiful site that’s constantly evolving. Although the site is still in its early stages—considering it’s a garden—it’s already absolutely enchanting!
Another favorite spot around the lake would be the Chute à l’Ours tourist site, since it’s exactly the kind of campground I look for when I travel, with the beautiful waterfall flowing right through the site. Plus, it’s a “Cyclists Welcome” site.
Noémie
My favorite spot in the Lac-Saint-Jean-Est RCM is undoubtedly the new section of Pointe-Taillon National Park in Saint-Gédéon, known as Le Camp de Touage. The national park’s campground is well-maintained with green spaces, and the campsites are well-spaced. The view of the islands and Lake Saint-Jean from the park is magnificent. It’s the perfect spot for lovers of water sports, camping, and wide-open spaces!
As for my favorite spot in the region, it’s the La Chouape microbrewery in Saint-Félicien. I find that the layout of the terrace and the view of the Ashuapmushuan River create a festive and warm atmosphere that’s perfect for the summer season. Plus, the organic beers are made with local, seasonal ingredients.
Eileen
My favorite spot is Mashteuiatsh—it’s the only Indigenous community in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region. You can learn about the history, culture, and traditions of First Nations, and experience an adventure that blends culture and nature. I find that the trees and birds radiate a wonderful energy.
There’s a shop where you can find lots of souvenirs, and Robertson Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
Ariane
My favorite spot in the area is the Coconut Café bistro. It’s a real favorite of mine, since they almost always use local ingredients. The owner also has an on-site smokehouse, and their coffee is excellent. In fact, they’re the only place in Lac-Saint-Jean that makes Bubble Coffee. They sell craft beers on-site, mainly from Lac-Saint-Jean, like their neighbor, the Lion Bleu. There’s a wonderful atmosphere, and it’s hard not to fall in love with the shop where the meats are smoked, which opens onto a terrace overlooking the Petit Décharge River. They offer takeout options, special add-ons (it’s the only café that puts maple syrup in iced coffees), and an on-site creamery. In addition to being a first for Bubble Coffee, they’re connected to L’Escaparium du Lac via a door between the two businesses. In short, the Coconut Café is one of a kind. Their location is perfect for customers, as they’re situated on the main street in downtown Alma, making them accessible to tourists who’d like to experience local flavors and take some home with them.
The Marie-Chapdelaine RCM is brimming with attractions, each more fascinating than the last, but our absolute favorite is undoubtedly Délices du Lac-Saint-Jean. This family-owned business focuses its workforce and operations on the blueberry industry, a powerful economic driver in the RCM.
The company expanded following its successful appearance on the TV show Dans l’œil du Dragon and is now a must-visit destination in the region. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the company’s products and learn more about the blueberry harvesting process. The jam makers will also explain how blueberries are transformed into a variety of their own unique products. This product line ranges from traditional jam to blueberry barbecue sauce, as well as butter and spreads.
At Délices du Lac-Saint-Jean, traditional expertise blends with modern know-how, as the blueberry season kicks off—around late July—with family-run picking. Once the blueberries are in season, Délices du Lac-Saint-Jean offers visitors the chance to pick their own berries at its tourist blueberry farm. This activity is very popular with visitors, who often plan their vacations to Lac-Saint-Jean specifically to pick blueberries.
In short, this business—which is part of the Économusée du Québec network—has everything it takes to appeal to tourists, in addition to enjoying the unwavering support of the local community. In our opinion, it is therefore a must-see during a visit to Lac-Saint-Jean, especially for visitors who enjoy agritourism and local flavors.
Top pick Outside the MRC: Cristal du Lac, Métabetchouan-Lac-à-la-Croix
This unique business really won us over during the themed tour organized by Tourisme Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean. The activity stands out from the rest because it’s the only one around Lac Saint-Jean that focuses on quartz crystals. The presence of this resource in the region is little known not only to visitors but also to the local population.
The activity appeals to both young and old. In fact, the site offers a tour of the open-pit deposit, where visitors can pick their own crystals and learn more about their geological composition. Friendly and experienced guides are on hand to lead the tour and share their passion with visitors.
For younger visitors, the “Prospection-Express” activity is perfect: visitors take a bag of sand and sift it in the stream provided on-site to collect all kinds of crystals. Visitors can then sit at the picnic tables with the guides so they can explain what they’ve collected. They can make jewelry with their crystals or even pearls, extracted directly from oysters by an oyster shucker.
The site also features an exhibition hall displaying geodes and works created by the company’s owners. The guides provide commentary on these works and present a more scientific slideshow to visitors. Cristal du Lac is a tourist attraction that has something for visitors of all ages. This attraction is a must-see in the Lac-Saint-Jean Est RCM due to the variety of activities available on-site and the passion of the owners.
Even when the weather isn’t great, Lac-Saint-Jean is full of fun activities you’ll love to do during your vacation. We’ve got a variety of family-friendly options to help you make the most of those gray days!
A scientific, enriching, and culinary outing
Interested in learning more about beekeeping? Miel du Ruisseau, an educational museum located in Alma, invites you to explore its world and share its passion for bees during a guided tour. Young and old alike will enjoy the virtual reality experience that transports you into the world of this fascinating pollinator. You’ll also see a live beehive behind glass, and the tour concludes with a delicious tasting of 100% natural and eco-friendly products.
The role of the beekeeper
While bees fly from flower to flower to produce honey in their hives, beekeepers primarily harvest their sweet nectar, which they turn into products for consumption or for personal care. They may also raise bees for their pollen, propolis, or wax.
Local products, a gift from the bees!
Miel du Ruisseau offers a wide variety of products in the shop that you’ll love to try: mead, honey, beeswax, lip balm, pollen, sweets… everything you need to round out your guided tour in style!
Family Sports Activities with Alma’s Mégafun
Children, teens, adults, and seniors—there’s something for everyone at Mégafun d’Alma with 16 play areas and amenities that make it one of the largest entertainment centers in Quebec.
From slides and a ball pit to ceramic painting, board games, and inflatable attractions, fun is guaranteed for the whole family. Be sure to check out the new arcade zone during your visit—it promises plenty of fun!
The suspense of an escape room
In teams of 2 to 8 players, work together to complete a series of challenges during 60 minutes of suspense. The goal of the game: work together to solve a puzzle so you can escape the room as quickly as possible. Escaparium, a new entertainment concept in the region, promises to take you on an emotional roller coaster. Are you up for the challenge?
Let’s not forget the museums!
Exploring a region through its museums sparks the imagination and is a fun way to learn more about its culture.
Have you heard of the Circuit des Amusées?
There’s no shortage of options for exploring museums in the Lac-Saint-Jean region during your summer stay. The Circuit des Amusées, features 9 exceptional museums that you absolutely must visit.
L’Ermitage Sainte-Antoine de Lac-Bouchette : Discover the history of the sanctuary through a multisensory experience in the heart of an amphitheater, and learn about its founder during a visit to the Centre Elzéar-Delamarre.
Musée amérindien de Mashteuiatsh : Discover the history and culture of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh, the only Ilnu Indigenous community in Lac-Saint-Jean, and participate in creative workshops.
Musée Louis-Hémon : Explore the world of Louis Hémon and his famous work Maria Chapdelaine at the region’s oldest museum.
The Métabetchouane History and Archaeology Centre: discover a historic site of exchange between Indigenous nations and admire the breathtaking view of Lac Saint-Jean.
L’Odyssée des Bâtisseurs: learn about the history of the region and its treasures, and enjoy a 360-degree immersive experience inside a water tower. Fromagerie Perron: tour the building of the region’s oldest artisanal cheese factory and take advantage of the setting to enjoy a gourmet tasting of the products.
Unique cultural activities
Learning more about the culture of the Lac-Saint-Jean region has never been so much fun!
L’Odyssée des Bâtisseurs
Take a journey through the history of Lac-Saint-Jean at L’Odyssée des Bâtisseurs ! Learn more about the construction of the region’s hydroelectric dam network through its major permanent exhibition, “Au-delà de l’eau.” Have fun solving a famous case in a virtual exhibition. Continue your visit by exploring the traveling exhibition that highlights the region’s identity and history.
History and Archaeology
The Centre d’histoire et d’archéologie de la Métabetchouane is the perfect place to visit on a rainy day. Travel back in time 500 million years and discover the first humans who walked the land around Lake Piekuakami more than 6,000 years ago. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts from the region’s earliest Indigenous peoples, spanning the period up to the arrival of the first Europeans. As a significant trading hub among Indigenous nations, you can also enjoy the view overlooking Lac Saint-Jean.
Immerse yourself in Indigenous history
Meet the Pekuakamiulnuatsh at the Musée amérindien de Mashteuiatsh in an immersive exhibition that highlights the way of life of this local Indigenous community throughout the seasons. Kukum (Grandmother) and Mushum (Grandfather) will guide you throughout your visit. Also explore an exhibition featuring works by a dozen Indigenous artists from various Nations, all centered on the theme of boreal wildlife. Finish your tour with an introductory workshop on Indigenous crafts, led by an artisan who will guide you and share the history and origins of your creation.
Cristal du Lac
Discover the magical world of Cristal du Lac at the Mineralogical Activities Park, located in Métabetchouan-Lac-à-la-Croix. This preserved and protected area in the region hides unexpected treasures that you and your family will enjoy discovering during a free visit to its economuseum. With a reservation, watch a pearl extraction demonstration right before your eyes and enjoy having a piece of jewelry made with the pearl!
Pearl harvesting
Help a pearl diver extract a pearl from a cultured oyster! This unique experience lets you take home a piece of jewelry custom-made just for you.
Economuseum
While you’re here, be sure to stop by the Cristal Gallery to explore the quartz crystal exhibition, then head over to the Interpretation Center to learn more about the origins of this semi-precious stone.
Discovering Taxidermy as a Family
L’Univers Bilodeau, tours Available
With their striking realism, the animals on display during your visit to L’Univers Bilodeau will entertain the whole family. During a guided tour, watch the artisans as they work with various materials to create exact replicas of these animals, prepared with the utmost respect. Internationally renowned for the quality of his products—sold in over 27 countries—and for the sets he creates for Hollywood films, this taxidermist will share his passion for his craft with you.
Summer theater for rainy evenings
Enjoy an evening of summer theater and relax in good company. As it does every summer, the Dam-en-Terre Resort is hosting a new play to delight audiences. This year, catch the hit French play that has sold over 600,000 tickets, « Ils se sont aimés », running from July 7 to August 27, 2022.
A variety of outings to discover or rediscover
Looking to spend some quality time with your family? There are plenty of indoor activities in Lac-Saint-Jean to keep you entertained on rainy days. Discover or rediscover these fun places.
Movie theaters
The movie theater at the Jacques-Gagnon Complex in Alma
Would you like to watch the latest hit movie with your family? Take advantage of a rainy day to enjoy a fun outing at the cinéma du complexe Jacques-Gagnon à Alma. Relive those nostalgic moments while stuffing yourself with popcorn and candy in the utmost comfort.
Zoo Cinema in St-Félicien
End your day on a high note during your visit to the St-Félicien Zoo by catching an evening screening of a family-friendly movie. Young and old alike are sure to enjoy this relaxing moment after a long day of having a blast.
Cinéma Chaplin Roberval
If you’re visiting Roberval, you’ll love spending quality time with your family at cinéma Chaplin de Roberval. This cozy spot is the perfect place to escape a rainy day in complete comfort. All that’s left is to pick a movie!
Fun Cafés
Have you heard of game cafés? These places, where you can play a wide variety of board games with friends or family, are sure to appeal to everyone, regardless of age.
Sortez le Grand Jeu at Roberval
Located in Roberval, Sortez le Grand Jeu promises you a fun time playing board games. With about a hundred games to choose from, you’ll have the chance to put your impressive strategic skills to the test.
Soirée de Jeux at Alma
Soirée de Jeux, it’s a fun café-pub where everyone can enjoy playing board games, with entertainment available. Take the opportunity to enjoy a good local beer or a cup of coffee. The perfect combination!
Don’t forget to stop for some tasty treats!
With so many activities to enjoy on rainy days, you’ll never run out of things to do during your stay in Lac-Saint-Jean. You’ll also love exploring the region’s microbreweries, chocolate shops, bakeries, and cheese shops—all wonderful places to discover when the weather isn’t cooperating!
Kuei! Just a few miles from Roberval, on the banks of the mighty Pekuakami River, the community of Mashteuiatsh welcomes you!
The living heart of Ilnu culture in Lac-Saint-Jean, Mashteuiatsh is a unique destination where a history with roots stretching back thousands of years lives on. Here, you will meet the Pekuakamiulnuatsh, who generously share their ancestral traditions and their worldview, which is deeply connected to the land.
Your visit to Mashteuiatsh will leave a lasting impression: every moment spent with the Pekuakamiulnuatsh will enrich your worldview, and you’ll leave with a renewed understanding of the contemporary issues facing First Nations.
Want to experience this unique cultural immersion? Here are five ideal activities to help you get to know the Pekuakamiulnuatsh!
Grand rassemblement des Premières Nations – Mamuhitunanu
Did you know that Mashteuiatsh has been recognized as a gathering place for thousands of years? It was here, on the banks of the Pekuakami River, that members of different Nations would meet during the summer before heading inland for the winter. These gatherings provided an opportunity to exchange ideas, celebrate, and come together.
Today, this tradition continues with the Grand rassemblement des Premières Nations – Mamuhitunanu, held every July. This massive celebration aims to showcase history and traditions through cultural and sporting activities. The festivities take place over a week, fostering exchange and sharing between cultures.
Non-Indigenous people are warmly invited to attend the traditional sports competitions, the Pow-wow, and the musical performances for an authentic experience.
Discover the Uassahitsh site, a cultural heritage center where you can learn about the traditions and traditional way of life of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh. Located on the shores of Lac Saint-Jean, this serene spot is perfect for relaxing or enjoying a picnic in an idyllic setting.
Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh – Kakanauelitakanitshuap
An essential stop on your cultural journey, the Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh – Kakanauelitakanitshuap is much more than just a museum! It is a place for exchange, discovery, and artistic creation—a must-visit destination for exploring the ancestral knowledge and culture of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh.
The permanent exhibition Tshilanu Ilnuatsh / We, the Ilnuatsh takes you on an interactive and fun journey to discover their way of life through the cycle of the seasons. The outdoor interpretive site Nuhtshimihtsh / In the Forest allows you to explore and discover the tree, plant, and shrub species native to the region in the company of an experienced guide.
The whole family is welcome at this museum!
Heritage Tour in the Footsteps of the Ilnu (podcast)
This captivating audio tour will take you to the heart of the Mashteuiatsh community. Along the way, you’ll be guided by the poignant stories of community members who weave together a rich collective history. You’ll hear about ancient campsites, traditional gathering places, and sacred sites that still dot the landscape today.
The tour is primarily on foot, but some points of interest are farther away. We suggest visiting these by bike or car.
Ilnu craft shops and art studios
Mashteuiatsh is home to a few shops and creative studios where traditional craftsmanship blends with contemporary artistic expression. Unique pieces, handcrafted by local artists, showcase the expertise of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh and allow you to take home a tangible piece of Ilnu culture.
It’s also an opportunity to speak directly with the artists to learn more about their passion, their creative process, and the meaning behind their creations.
Here are a few must-visit spots:
Boutique d’arts amérindiens (art gallery-style shop featuring works by Indigenous and Quebec artists, stained glass)
Microbreweries, wineries, and sweet treats for a gourmet getaway at the lake!
The Tour du lac Saint-Jean is renowned for its majestic landscapes, golden beaches, and rich culture. But what captivates visitors just as much is the vibrancy of the region and the uniqueness of its flavors. The area is brimming with innovative microbreweries, artisanal chocolate shops, berry farmers, and even a northern vineyard. Every turn along the road is an invitation to stop, taste, and meet passionate artisans.
Microbreweries: The Art of Brewing Regional Identity
Lac Saint-Jean is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts. Microbreweries abound there, and each offers creations inspired by the local region:
Microbrasserie du Lac-Saint-Jean (Saint-Gédéon) : A pioneer in the regional brewing scene, it pays homage to blueberries and boreal forests in many of its recipes.
Microbrasserie le Coureur des Bois (Dolbeau-Mistassini) : Warm and welcoming, it highlights the region’s forestry history and traditions.
Microbrasserie Lion Bleu (Alma) : Modern and creative, it charms visitors with its vibrant beers and urban atmosphere right in the heart of Alma.
Microbrasserie La Chouap (Saint-Félicien) : A must-visit spot where local culture meets bold hoppy flavors.
Bercée Microbrasserie (Hébertville) : a young microbrewery that focuses on creativity and a warm welcome.
Microbrasserie Distillerie Beemer (Roberval) : one of a kind, it combines a microbrewery and a distillery to offer complete tasting experiences.
These brewery stops are perfect for a day of exploring the Véloroute des Bleuets or a fun evening with friends.
Fruity and chocolatey treats: a region for food lovers
You can’t visit the Lac-Saint-Jean region without sampling its local delicacies. Boreal berries and artisanal chocolate take center stage here:
Maison du Bleuet (Saint-Félicien) : a must-visit stop for lovers of the Lake’s iconic fruit, offering a wide variety of blueberry products.
Délices du Lac Saint-Jean (Albanel) : a leading company that showcases blueberries in all their forms—jellies, jams, and treats.
Camerises Mistouk – Économusée et distillerie (Labrecque) : open year-round, this spot invites you to discover the camerise, a small boreal fruit with surprising flavors, transformed into refined products and spirits.
La Chocolaterie des Pères (Dolbeau-Mistassini) : a heritage chocolate shop where traditional craftsmanship meets local ingredients.
These spots appeal to families looking for a treat as well as those seeking unique experiences.
Nordic spirits and wine: boldness and innovation
The creativity of the artisans of Lac Saint-Jean extends beyond beer and berries:
KWE Cocktails (Alma) : ouverte toute l’année, cette entreprise conçoit des cocktails prêts-à-boire à base d’ingrédients locaux. Une expérience moderne et branchée, parfaite pour un apéro boréal.
Vignoble Chambordais (Chambord) : Proof that vines can thrive even in northern latitudes, this vineyard surprises visitors with its unique vintages and rustic tours.
These initiatives showcase the creativity of the producers in Jean, who are pushing the boundaries of agritourism.
A scenic route to awaken the senses
The Tour du lac Saint-Jean is more than just a scenic drive; it’s a multi-sensory journey. Every microbrewery, chocolate shop, or vineyard becomes an encounter. Here, you’ll savor not only local products but also the history and passion of those who create them.
Whether you’re a fan of hoppy beers, artisanal chocolates, boreal fruits, or sophisticated cocktails, the Tour du lac Saint-Jean invites you to discover a unique culinary identity. Here, the route is meant to be savored as much as it is admired.
