Follow the St. Lawrence on a road trip from Tadoussac to Sept-Îles

Tadoussac and the surrounding area

No road trip along the shore of Côte-Nord would be complete without a stop in Tadoussac: the gateway to the region and a prime spot for whale watching. For an experience that combines vastness, excitement, and wonder, Mer et monde Ecotours at Vacances Essipit offers sea kayaking expeditions—a unique way to get up close to these marine giants. Fishing enthusiasts will find their paradise at the Club Tadoussac outfitter, staying in a comfortable cabin surrounded by nature. And for those who want to soak up the village atmosphere, the Hôtel Tadoussac, with its elegant and historic wooden architecture, remains a must-visit destination.

Pessamit 

A little further down Route 138, a stop in Pessamit adds a human and cultural dimension to the trip. A guided tour of the community offers a chance to discover Innu traditions and appreciate the rich heritage of Nitassinan, in a spirit of sharing and authenticity. 

For the night, Le Danube Bleu, a hotel located in Forestville, offers a warm welcome and convenient amenities.

Baie-Comeau

Less than an hour’s drive away, Baie-Comeau is also well worth a visit. Among other attractions, Pointe-aux-Outardes Nature Park, with its marked trails and wooden boardwalks along the river, is the perfect place to watch migratory birds and take in sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River. 

For lodging, the Grand Hôtel Baie-Comeau, the Comfort Inn Baie-Comeau, or the Hôtel Le Manoir will suit every style and budget.

Station Uapishka or Port-Cartier and Sept-Îles

As you leave Baie-Comeau, you have two options. The more adventurous can take Route 389 toward Station Uapishka, located at the foot of the Groulx Mountains, to explore the spectacular—yet dizzying—landscapes of the Manicouagan Crater. Accommodations, dining and outdoor activities await experienced hikers in a breathtaking wilderness setting.

Another option: keep going on Route 138 to Port-Cartier and Sept-Îles. Here, the river stretches endlessly, lined with beaches, parks, and islands that invite you to slow down and enjoy the salty air. 

For lodging, establishments such as Château Arnaud, the Comfort Inn Sept-Îles, or Hôtel Le Voyageur offer comfort and proximity to the region’s attractions.