Over The Top RV Adventures: Quebec, Canada
The Ultimate Quebec Road Trip: From Montreal to the Edge of the Atlantic
The Ultimate Quebec Road Trip: From Montreal to the Edge of the Atlantic
Hi there,
If you’re dreaming of a road trip that combines vibrant cities, rugged coastlines, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite journeys: the St. Lawrence River route in Quebec. This adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Montreal to the wild, windswept shores of the Gaspé Peninsula, where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean.
Along the way, you’ll explore charming towns, feast on world-class cheese, kayak with seals, and stand in awe of towering cliffs and ancient rock formations. Whether you’re in an RV or a trusty truck, this route is packed with beauty, adventure, and a few challenges to keep things interesting.
Let’s hit the road!
Stop 1: Montreal KOA – The Perfect Starting Point
Your journey begins at the Montreal KOA, a convenient and welcoming base camp just outside the city. Montreal is a cultural hub, and if you have time, spend a day exploring its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and world-renowned food scene. Do not miss out on Marche Jean-Talon, one of the best markets in the world. Must experience. But the real magic lies ahead, so don’t linger too long—adventure is calling!
Stop 2: Quebec City – Where History Meets the River
From Montreal, head northeast to Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of North America’s oldest cities. Stay at Camping Au P’tit Bonheur, a peaceful campground just outside the city. It’s the perfect spot to set up camp while you explore Quebec City’s cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and the iconic Château Frontenac.
This is also where the St. Lawrence River truly begins to shine. As you stroll along the riverfront, you’ll feel the pull of the water—a reminder that this mighty river will be your guide for the rest of the trip.
Stop 3: Trois-Pistoles – Cheese, Curds, and Coastal Charm
Next, follow the river northeast to Trois-Pistoles, a quaint town known for its stunning river views and, more importantly, its cheese. Stay at Camping Plage Trois-Pistoles, a riverside campground that offers easy access to the water and the town’s star attraction: Fromagerie des Basques.
This cheese shop is a must-visit. Their cheese curds are legendary—fresh, squeaky, and utterly delicious. Grab a bag (or three) and enjoy them with a view of the St. Lawrence.
While you’re here, consider a detour to Tadoussac, a nearby village where the Saguenay River meets the St. Lawrence. This area is a hotspot for whale watching, with belugas, humpbacks, and even blue whales frequenting the estuary. The Ferry is a fantastic ride across the St. Lawrence if you just want to go see the other side and come back. I saw many whales, seals, porpoises, and birds from the ferry. Click here to book The Ferry
Stop 4: Camping Griffon – Gateway to the Gaspé Peninsula
Continue along Highway 132, one of the most scenic drives in Quebec, to Camping Griffon. This gem of a campground offers stunning views of the river and easy access to the Gaspé Peninsula. Book early and see if you can get one of their cliffside spots. One of the most beautiful views I have ever witnessed anywhere.
The Gaspé Peninsula is where the St. Lawrence River meets the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s a place of raw, untamed beauty. From Camping Griffon, you can explore Forillon National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whale Watching: Hop on a zodiac boat and get up close with whales. On my trip, I was lucky enough to see two blue whales—an experience I’ll never forget. We used Croisières Baie de Gaspé
Kayaking with Seals: Paddle along the coast, and curious seals might surround you. It’s a magical experience that feels like something out of a nature documentary. It’s the unexpected surprises that stick with you.
Cliff Edges and Private Beaches: Make sure you bring paddle craft. This place must be explored from the water in multiple ways.
Stop 5: Percé Rock – A Natural Wonder
No trip to the Gaspé Peninsula is complete without a visit to Percé Rock, one of Quebec’s most iconic landmarks. This massive limestone formation rises out of the water like a sentinel, and it’s home to a colony of over 350,000 gannet birds.
To see the birds up close, take a ferry to Bonaventure Island and hike the 4-mile trail to the colony. It’s a challenging trek, but the sight of thousands of birds nesting and soaring above the cliffs is worth every step.
A Note for RVers: The roads to Percé are steep, with grades as high as 17%. If you’re towing, consider leaving your RV at Camping Griffon and exploring the area with just your truck.
The St. Lawrence River: A Road Tripper’s Dream
One of the best parts of this journey is the freedom to explore at your own pace. The St. Lawrence River is lined with small, family-run RV parks that offer clean facilities, stunning views, and a chance to connect with locals and fellow travelers.
These little campgrounds are the heart and soul of the region. They’re places where you can sit by the water, watch the sunset, and feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Why This Road Trip is Unforgettable
This route is more than just a drive—it’s an experience. From the historic charm of Quebec City to the wild beauty of the Gaspé Peninsula, every stop offers something unique. You’ll taste the best cheese curds of your life, kayak with seals, and stand in awe of natural wonders like Percé Rock.
And let’s not forget the people. The locals you’ll meet along the way are warm, welcoming, and proud to share their corner of the world with you.
The highway systems in Canada are fantastic. The roads are well-maintained and there's wildflowers along both sides. Give yourself some time to breathe in the fresh air and learn a new language. It really is a wonderful place to journey.
Your Adventure Awaits
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Let’s hit the road together—one mile at a time.
See you On the Road!
Hobby
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