Jeanne Rondeau-Ducharme’s 7 favourites in Charlevoix

Perched between river and mountains, Charlevoix is a spectacular region that will instantly charm you. Here are Jeanne's favourites from her most recent stay at Le Germain Charlevoix Hotel & Spa.

1. Farm animals

It's impossible to stay at Le Germain Charlevoix Hotel & Spa without visiting the resident farm animals at least one time (or ten!). Jeanne has a huge crush on the alpacas.

2. Relaxing at Spa Nordique Le Germain

For a relaxing vacation, spoil yourself with a thermal experience at Spa Nordique Le Germain, located right in the hotel. Sipping on lemon water while surrounded by the pastoral décor of the calming areas makes the experience even more peaceful. 

3. The gourmet menu at Le Bercail restaurant

When it comes to local products, the Charlevoix region has much to offer and the restaurants at Le Germain Charlevoix Hotel & Spa know how to make the most of it. Le Bercail restaurant is the ideal place to sip a locally crafted beer at the end of the afternoon and enjoy homemade pizza.

4. A picnic on the beach

There’s nothing better in the summer months than enjoying a delicious meal outdoors. Jeanne loved savouring her picnic on the beach, just a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Keep an eye out for envious passersby!

5. A stroll in Baie-Saint-Paul

Feel like stretching your legs? The city of Baie Saint-Paul is is just a stone’s throw away and invites you to discover the local artisans’ boutiques. Jeanne recommends her favourite destination in town, the Mousse Café, which is located inside Maison Mère, an historical site recently revitalized by Atelier Pierre Thibault.

6. Bike ride along chemin de la Pointe

BaieCycle bikes are the perfect way to explore the surroundings of Baie-Saint-Paul. Featuring a vintage look we love, the bikes are available at several access stations throughout the city, including one located directly at Le Germain Charlevoix Hôtel & Spa. Jeanne particularly enjoyed her route from the hotel to chemin de la Pointe. Expect to stop often as you snap photos of the lavender fields, the beautiful waterfalls and the railroad tracks.

7. Hiking in Grands-Jardins National Park

One of Jeanne's favourite features of the Charlevoix region is its proximity to Sépaq parks. A 30-minute drive from the hotel is the Grands-Jardins National Park. Jeanne particularly recommends the Mont du Lac des Cygnes trail, with its breathtaking 360° view from the summit. Allow yourself about 1h30 to climb and 45 minutes to descend.

For those travelling to Charlevoix from Montreal or the surrounding area, Jeanne suggests breaking up the journey by stopping in Quebec City to take advantage of all that the nation’s capital has to offer. Have a great road trip!