7 Tips for Traveling in Québec, Canada

Québec is Canada's largest province in terms of area and its second largest in population, next to Ontario.

While you're there, keep in mind that Québec has a rocky relationship with the rest of Canada. Thanks to the efforts of the Québec sovereignty movement, the province has held multiple referendums attempting to force a secession from the rest of the country.

In each case, the proposal has been rejected, at one point by a margin of just 0.58%.

Keep this in mind when you chat with the Québecois about their province and their country as a whole.

Weather Warnings

It might be tempting to take a trip up to Québec during the cold months to experience the delights of a true northern winter; but don't do it.

• Heavy snowfalls can quickly clog major roads, causing significant delays.
• This is especially true if you're journeying through the northern half of the province.

You could be stuck in a tiny town like Chicoutimi for hours while the snowplows do their thing.

Exploring the Saguenay Fjord

The Saguenay Fjord is a spectacular sight, stretching a full 65 miles in length as it slices into the center of the province.

• The cliffs here are 300m high in some places.
• You'll find plenty of spots for biking, camping, kayaking, or hiking along this route.

Located at the mouth of the fjord, this cute little town still holds elements of Québec's colonial past.

• Make time for the whale-watching cruise and check out some of the hidden beaches along the coast.
• There are also some prime fishing spots in this area.

Remote Adventures in Sept-Îles

Are you craving a really remote experience? Travel all the way up to tiny Sept-Îles, right on the northern shore of the St. Lawrence River's widest point.

• In 2011, this town had about 25,600 people living in it.
• It is one of the furthest northern locations that has a paved link to Québec's road network.

Beyond that, there are just three more towns with paved roads: Radisson, Fermont, and Chisasibi. Even further north, there are only Inuit, Innu, or Cree settlements.

If you hang around Sept-Îles, you can enjoy rocky beaches lined with salt-scented grasses, boating, whale-watching, fishing, and the simple beauty of nature.