The Navigators | Rivière-du-Loup to Matane

Your day begins on the Route des Navigateurs. In Cacouna, follow Route Verte #1 along the riverbank. You’ll then cycle through farmland and forests before reaching L’Isle-Verte. Enjoy a well-deserved break. Then, get back on your bike and take the Le Littoral basque bike path, which offers breathtaking panoramic views! Finally, Trois-Pistoles welcomes you with its charm, where you’ll find the perfect balance between rural and urban life. Don’t miss the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges church, an architectural gem of the Bas-Saint-Laurent region.

Possible attractions/stops: Isle Verte village, Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Church (Trois-Pistoles), La Maison du Notaire (Trois-Pistoles), Le Caveau microbrewery (Trois-Pistoles), Le Biarritz Restaurant (Trois-Pistoles)

Night in Trois-Pistoles

Today, as you follow the Route Verte, expect several climbs and descents. However, your efforts will be rewarded with magnificent views! You’ll pass by several lookouts, including the Beaulieu lookout, which offers a breathtaking panorama. You’ll also cycle through Bic National Park, a must-see on your trip. The park’s bike paths are covered with crushed stone. Take the time to admire the park’s beauty and maybe you’ll spot some seals basking in the sun. The village of Le Bic is an excellent place to enjoy the rest of your day.

Possible attractions/stops: Beaulieu Lookout, Cantine côtière (Saint-Fabien), Bic National Park, Chez Saint-Pierre restaurant (Le Bic)

Night in Rimouski

Today, take the bike path along the coast and let the sea breeze carry you to Pointe-au-Père. Along the way, take some time to visit downtown Rimouski. In Pointe-au-Père, history buffs can visit the Onondaga submarine and the Empress of Ireland Museum. Your journey then continues on the coastal trails, offering beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River. In Sainte-Luce-sur-Mer, recognizable by its colourful houses, enjoy a gourmet break facing the sea before continuing to Sainte-Flavie. There, admire the panorama from the wharf and go see the sculptures by Marcel Gagnon that seem to be advancing into the waves.

Possible attractions/stops: Downtown Rimouski, Onondaga submarine, Empress of Ireland Museum and Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse, Sainte-Luce-sur-Mer, Marcel Gagnon art centre (Sainte-Flavie)

Night in Sainte-Flavie

Today, the route takes you through varied coastal landscapes: fine sandy beaches, peaceful coves and picturesque little villages. Cycle to the sound of the sea and be charmed by the region’s maritime atmosphere. Along the way, stop at the magnificent Reford Gardens (Jardins de Métis), a must-see for nature lovers. This unique northern garden will amaze you with its diversity and beauty. In the heart of Matane, don’t miss the salmon observation post, a fascinating experience for young and old. Take the opportunity to explore Matane’s lively downtown and discover its attractions.

Possible attractions/stops: Maurice Lamontagne Institute (Mont-Joli), Reford Gardens (Grand-Métis), salmon observation post (Matane), Museum of the Sea (Matane), La Fabrique craft brewery (Matane)

Night in Matane