Quebec: Gaspesie, lighthouse route, from/to Montreal

Montreal, the second largest city in Canada, is located exactly halfway between the western coast of Europe and Vancouver, and combines aspects of both continents. Two-thirds of the population are of French descent, while the rest is a cosmopolitan mix of English, Chinese, Italian, Greek, South American, Eastern European, and Caribbean backgrounds. This diversity is reflected in the cuisine and the large number of popular festivals that make it one of the most vibrant and lively cities in Canada., Key points: Old Montreal with Notre Dame Basilica, residential and financial districts, the Latin Quarter, the Olympic complex from the outside, McGill University campus, and the beautiful view of the city from the top of Mont Royal.,

Arriving in Quebec from Montreal, the difference between the two cities is striking: while Montreal appears international, dynamic, and progressive, Quebec is tied to its religious and military past.,

Rivière-du-Loup, beautifully situated on the St. Lawrence River, is famous for its waterfalls and stunning views of the river delta. Whale-watching tours are a must, especially during the summer months. The town features charming cafés, boutiques, and historic architecture. A highlight is Parc des Chutes, offering hiking trails and picnic spots for relaxation.,

Once a poor fishing community, Percé is now an important tourist center thanks to its natural beauty, and in particular for the large pierced rock that rises from the sea and has given the name to the town.,

In L'Anse-à-Valleau, if there is time, stop at the picturesque lighthouse of Pointe-à-la-Renommée. The road is often narrow between the ocean and the sheer rock wall, with curves and hairpin turns that reveal picturesque coves.,

Ferry cruise down the Saint Lawrence river, from Matane to Godbout,

From the shore of the great St. Lawrence, I embark on a whale-watching cruise in the Tadoussac fjord, in a natural environment of great beauty. It is possible to see the large Rorqual whales and the white Belugas.,

We follow the St. Lawrence coast through Charlevoix, a region of pretty country villages and small river communities, stopping in the quaint village of Saint-Paul, well known to artists and painters, Perched scenically on the promontory of Cap Diamant and the shores of the St. Lawrence River, Quebec City is Canada's oldest city, and the only one in North America to have preserved its defensive walls, bastions, and buttresses, as well as churches and convents, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site. Quebec City is also a city with a deeply rooted and proudly French culture.,

Departure for, end of the tour,