Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary
The Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through some of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes. Starting in Montreal, the route takes you through Quebec City, Matane, Matapédia, and Lévis, a total distance of 2213km. It is recommended to allow 10 days to complete the trip and the best time of the year to drive is from May to October.
Along the way, you will experience stunning coastal views, picturesque mountains and valleys, and quaint small towns. Notable attractions along the route include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Historic District of Old Quebec and the Historic Site of the Gaspésie. The road conditions are excellent and the route is suitable for every driver.
Although the trip can be managed on a moderate budget, the experience and memories you will make will be priceless. Please note that seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur and some of the roads along the route are curvy.
10
number of days
2,213 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Montreal
Distance 2,213 km
Driving time 32.6 h
Pace: fast
663.8 kWh
Airports
YUL
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Montreal is an ideal starting point for the "Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip". Located in the province of Quebec, Canada, Montreal has something for everyone. The city is a vibrant mix of cultures, with an array of restaurants and attractions. Begin your trip by visiting the Notre Dame Basilica, an impressive Gothic Revival style church. Then, explore the Old Montreal, a historic area with cobblestone streets, old-world architecture, and the iconic Bonsecours Market. Other attractions include the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Montreal Botanical Garden. For those traveling by air, Montreal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) is the closest international airport, offering a variety of car rental options. Once you have your car, you can start your road trip to the Gaspe Peninsula, a beautiful coastal region with stunning landscapes and picturesque views. Enjoy the journey!
1
Montreal
- Quebec City
Distance 291 km
Driving time 4.6 h
Pace: fast
87.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip from Montreal to Quebec City and discover the cultural, historical and natural wonders of the region. This 291km journey will take you less than 5 hours, with plenty of stops to explore the most interesting places along the way. Admire the breathtaking landscapes, visit historical sites and UNESCO Heritage sites, and take in the unique atmosphere of the cities.
Start your journey in Montreal and explore the city’s many attractions, such as the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Old Port of Montreal, and the Mount Royal Park. Then, drive to Quebec City and visit the iconic Château Frontenac, the Citadelle of Quebec, and the Plains of Abraham. Don’t forget to take a stroll on the Dufferin Terrace and admire the stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
On your way to Quebec City, make sure to stop at Trois-Rivières, a city with an abundance of cultural activities and historical sites.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Quebec City - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Quebec City - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Quebec City - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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2
Quebec City
- Baie-Comeau
Distance 416 km
Driving time 5.3 h
Pace: fast
124.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to an amazing road trip from Quebec City to Baie-Comeau! This 416 km drive will take you less than 6 hours and will show you some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Canada.
Starting in Quebec City, you will be able to explore the historical sites, the old city and its cobbled streets, and the stunning Château Frontenac.
On the way to Baie-Comeau, you will be able to admire the breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains. Don't forget to stop at the Montmorency Falls Park, with its impressive waterfall and beautiful gardens.
Once you reach Baie-Comeau, you can visit the Manicouagan Reservoir, the largest annular lake in the world, and the Parc des Chutes-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, with its stunning waterfalls.
Throughout your trip, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Canadian countryside, and the charming villages.
Make sure to pay attention to the many historical sites, scenic roads and charming villages along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Baie-Comeau - Canada - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Baie-Comeau
- Matane
Distance 4 km
Driving time 0.1 h
Pace: slow
1.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Baie-Comeau to Matane! This 4 km road trip will take you less than an hour, and includes a ferry crossing. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views of the majestic Saint Lawrence River. Don’t forget to take a few pictures during the journey!
As you travel, take time to explore the quaint towns of Baie-Comeau and Matane. Be sure to visit the historic sites and churches, as well as the local art galleries and shops. You can also find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars in both towns.
For those who love nature, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, or explore the nearby trails and parks. Wildlife lovers can also take a boat tour to spot some of the local animals.
Finally, don’t forget to check out the nearby beaches. The beaches of Baie-Comeau and Matane are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Matane - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Pikist
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4
Matane
- Gaspé
Distance 339 km
Driving time 5.7 h
Pace: modest
88.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip starting in Matane, Canada and ending in Gaspé? This 339 km journey will take you less than 6 hours to complete, with plenty of time to explore the attractions along the way.
Start your journey by visiting the Matane Lighthouse, a historical site with a stunning view of the river. Then head to the Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Canada. Here you can explore the museum and learn about the history of the area.
As you continue your journey, take in the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. You may even spot some wildlife along your drive. Be sure to keep an eye out for seasonal road closures, as some sections may be closed during certain times of the year.
Once you arrive in Gaspé, you can visit the Musée de la Gaspésie, a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the region. You can also explore the Forillon National Park, a stunning nature preserve with plenty of activities.
This is just one stage of a larger tour, so be sure to check out the itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Gaspé - Canada - North America - Road Trip - www.nps.gov
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5
Gaspé
- Matapédia
Distance 333 km
Driving time 4.6 h
Pace: fast
99.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 333 km journey from Gaspé to Matapédia and explore the beauty of Eastern Quebec! The driving time is less than 5 hours, and you will find plenty of interesting places to visit along the way. In Gaspé, make sure to check out the Monument to the Gaspesian Pioneers, and the Musée de la Gaspésie. As you drive along the scenic road, take some time to admire the breathtaking views of the Chaleur Bay. In Matapédia, you can explore the Centre d'Interprétation de la Nature, and the Musée de la Faune et de la Nature. Some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and the road is very winding in some sections, so make sure to drive carefully. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Matapédia - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Matapédia
- Rimouski
Distance 189 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: fast
56.6 kWh
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Welcome to the Matapédia-Rimouski road trip! This 189km journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, and you'll get to explore the beautiful landscapes of Eastern Canada. Along the way, be sure to keep an eye out for the stunning views of the Matapédia River, and don't forget to visit the historical sites of Matapédia. Once in Rimouski, you can explore the Parc National du Bic and the Musée Régional de Rimouski. Please note that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so it's best to check road conditions before you set off. Enjoy your trip! For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites along the route, please visit the "Itinerary" for this stage.
Rimouski - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Rimouski - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Rimouski
- Lévis
Distance 316 km
Driving time 4.8 h
Pace: fast
94.7 kWh
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip? Let's start in Rimouski, Canada, and end in Lévis, 316 km away. With a driving time of fewer than 5 hours, you'll have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places along the way.
In Rimouski, take a stroll through the Parc de la Rivière Rimouski, where you can enjoy the picturesque views of the St. Lawrence River. Or, visit the Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse, a National Historic Site of Canada.
As you continue your journey, you'll be treated to beautiful views of the countryside. Keep an eye out for the scenic road of Route du Fleuve, which takes you along the south shore of the St. Lawrence.
When you arrive in Lévis, take a tour of the Château de Lévis, a 19th-century manor house. Or, explore the Parc des Chutes-de-la-Chaudière, where you can see the beautiful Chaudière Falls.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage of your road trip. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Lévis - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Lévis
- Montreal
Distance 325 km
Driving time 5.1 h
Pace: fast
97.6 kWh
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Welcome to the Lévis – Montreal road trip stage! This stage is a 325 km journey that will take you less than 6 hours to complete. As you drive along the route, be sure to take in the beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River, the historical sites and the stunning landscape.
Start your journey in Lévis, where you can visit the Lévis Forts National Historic Site, which is a series of fortifications built in the 19th century. Then, you can continue your journey to Montreal, where you can explore the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Montreal Botanical Garden.
As you make your way to Montreal, you will find many other fascinating places along the route, such as the Old Port of Montreal, the Mount Royal Park and the Olympic Stadium.
For a more detailed description of the attractions, accommodations, restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
So, make sure to take the Lévis – Montreal road trip stage and enjoy the beautiful views, historical sites and stunning landscapes!
Montreal
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The final destination of the Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip is Montreal, one of Canada’s most vibrant cities. Located on an island in the Saint Lawrence River, Montreal is known for its unique blend of French and English culture, its beautiful architecture, and its unique cuisine. The city is home to many of Canada’s most iconic landmarks, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, the Olympic Stadium, and Old Montreal.
For those traveling by car, Montreal is easily accessible by the Trans-Canada Highway and the US–Canada border crossing at Lacolle. The city also has an extensive network of roads and highways, making it easy to explore its many attractions.
The best way to experience Montreal is to wander the city’s charming cobblestone streets, taking in its diverse neighborhoods and attractions. Be sure to visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which houses a renowned collection of Canadian and international art. Other must-see attractions include the Montreal Botanical Garden, the Montreal Science Centre, and the Montreal Biodome.
For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Montreal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL). From there, visitors can easily access the city via public transportation or ride-sharing services.
No matter how you arrive, Montreal is sure to provide a unique and memorable experience. From its vibrant culture to its stunning architecture, Montreal is the perfect end to the Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip.
Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Montreal
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End:
Montreal
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Distance:
2,213 km
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Stay:
10 days
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Getting there:
Montreal / Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the captivating Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip, a 2,213-kilometer adventure that commences in the vibrant city of Montreal and weaves through historical and natural landmarks, including the charming Quebec City and the coastal town of Matane. Your journey concludes at the breathtaking Gaspé Peninsula, a place where the land meets the sea in dramatic fashion, offering travelers a tapestry of awe-inspiring landscapes and a glimpse into the soul of small-town Canada.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
This route will guide you through the cobblestone streets of the Historic District of Old Quebec, a treasured UNESCO World Heritage Site that is alive with centuries-old European architecture and heritage. Further along, you will reach the Gaspé Peninsula, known as the `Birthplace of Canada,` where Jacques Cartier claimed the land in the name of the king of France in 1534. Here, the remarkable Percé Rock and the soaring cliffs of Forillon National Park await, against a backdrop of the rugged, yet serene, Atlantic coastline. The Chic-Choc Mountains of the interior also offer a rugged escape for those looking to immerse themselves in Quebec's natural splendor.
Best Time to Go:
The most opportune time for this Road Trip is between May and October, when the Canadian landscape is lush and fully accessible, and the climate is conducive to both leisurely drives and outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be mindful of weather-induced Road closures, particularly in the shoulder seasons. The winding Roads require careful navigation, especially in the mountainous regions and along the coastal cliffs, but they reward the diligent driver with spectacular vistas.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
Dedicate at least 10 days to truly savor the experience the Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip has to offer. The Roads are well-maintained and welcoming to drivers of all experience levels. While budget-friendly options are available, the investment in this journey yields rich rewards in the form of unforgettable memories and experiences. The region's culinary offerings, particularly its fresh seafood, add another layer of enjoyment to the Trip.
A good choice for:
The Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip is a treasure trove of Canada's natural grandeur and cultural depth. It's a journey that promises not only the thrill of discovery but also moments of reflection and peace, making it an essential pilgrimage for Roadtrippers who yearn for both adventure and tranquility amidst the great Canadian landscape.