5 winter experiences in Québec
06 Jun, 2023
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By Marie-Pier Leduc - Nomade Magazine
Quebec is such a beautiful playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and we're so lucky to experience all 4 seasons! While each has its own appeal, the winter season is particularly magical. In addition to the incredibly beautiful snow-covered landscapes, there are so many outdoor experiences and activities to enjoy. Here are 5 of my favorite winter experiences in La Belle Province!
A weekend of ski-in/ski-out in Chaudière-Appalaches
Snow means snow sports! I'm a big fan, especially of downhill skiing. A ski weekend is a must for me every winter! This season, I fell in love with Mont Adstock in the Chaudière-Appalaches region, which enjoys excellent snow conditions.
In my opinion, the best way to make the most of it is to book accommodation directly on the mountain, for the ski-in/ski-out advantage. In other words, you can put on your skis from your accommodation and glide down to the slopes, or come right back during the descent. I love maximizing my days on the mountain!
An introduction to ice climbing in Bas-Saint-Laurent
If you're feeling brave and want to try a new sport, an introduction to ice climbing promises to be a thrilling experience! I had the opportunity to try it out this winter, and loved the thrill and sense of accomplishment of climbing the ice wall.
I had the opportunity to experience this initiation at Parc des Chutes de Rivière-du-Loup, a superb location in the heart of the city! You'll also be able to admire the falls.
A stay in unusual accommodation
Quebec is brimming with unique, cosy accommodations for a winter break out of the ordinary. Whether in a yurt in Parc national du Bic, a Panora river lodge on the banks of the St. Lawrence or a dome perched high up in Percé, the experience is always unforgettable! What could be better than warming up by the fire or in the Jacuzzi after an active day in the great outdoors?
Snowshoeing in Gaspésie National Park
Of course, snowshoeing is a must when the trails are covered with a thick layer of snow. It's not only beautiful, it's so much fun!
My personal favorite is the Gaspésie national park, which is truly a winter paradise! The snow-covered fir trees, the immaculate white landscapes, the mountains all around... this place is simply magical in winter and certainly worth the detour for one or more hikes.
A day of alpine hiking
Last but not least, a day of alpine hiking! It's a sport I've discovered in recent years, and one I enjoy more and more with each outing. Compared to downhill skiing, alpine touring offers an extra physical challenge and the opportunity to explore less-frequented areas. The joy of skiing in beautiful powder snow is in itself reason enough to take up alpine touring!
What's more, there are plenty of places to practice this sport in Quebec. At Mont Adstock, which I mentioned earlier, there's an off-piste sector accessible by alpine hikers. Otherwise, the Gaspé Peninsula is full of places to explore, whatever your level. For example, the Station touristique Pin Rouge is ideal for beginners who want to stay in a safer environment. The Parc national de la Gaspésie is paradise for those who want to venture off the beaten track.
I could go on and on, so many great winter experiences are available in Quebec, but I hope these 5 favorites will inspire you to get moving and explore this season. The best way to enjoy it, despite the cold and shorter days, is to take full advantage of the many winter sports and winter joys!
By Marie-Pier Leduc - Nomade Magazine
Quebec is such a beautiful playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and we're so lucky to experience all 4 seasons! While each has its own appeal, the winter season is particularly magical. In addition to the incredibly beautiful snow-covered landscapes, there are so many outdoor experiences and activities to enjoy. Here are 5 of my favorite winter experiences in La Belle Province!
A weekend of ski-in/ski-out in Chaudière-Appalaches
Snow means snow sports! I'm a big fan, especially of downhill skiing. A ski weekend is a must for me every winter! This season, I fell in love with Mont Adstock in the Chaudière-Appalaches region, which enjoys excellent snow conditions.
In my opinion, the best way to make the most of it is to book accommodation directly on the mountain, for the ski-in/ski-out advantage. In other words, you can put on your skis from your accommodation and glide down to the slopes, or come right back during the descent. I love maximizing my days on the mountain!
An introduction to ice climbing in Bas-Saint-Laurent
If you're feeling brave and want to try a new sport, an introduction to ice climbing promises to be a thrilling experience! I had the opportunity to try it out this winter, and loved the thrill and sense of accomplishment of climbing the ice wall.
I had the opportunity to experience this initiation at Parc des Chutes de Rivière-du-Loup, a superb location in the heart of the city! You'll also be able to admire the falls.
A stay in unusual accommodation
Quebec is brimming with unique, cosy accommodations for a winter break out of the ordinary. Whether in a yurt in Parc national du Bic, a Panora river lodge on the banks of the St. Lawrence or a dome perched high up in Percé, the experience is always unforgettable! What could be better than warming up by the fire or in the Jacuzzi after an active day in the great outdoors?
Snowshoeing in Gaspésie National Park
Of course, snowshoeing is a must when the trails are covered with a thick layer of snow. It's not only beautiful, it's so much fun!
My personal favorite is the Gaspésie national park, which is truly a winter paradise! The snow-covered fir trees, the immaculate white landscapes, the mountains all around... this place is simply magical in winter and certainly worth the detour for one or more hikes.
A day of alpine hiking
Last but not least, a day of alpine hiking! It's a sport I've discovered in recent years, and one I enjoy more and more with each outing. Compared to downhill skiing, alpine touring offers an extra physical challenge and the opportunity to explore less-frequented areas. The joy of skiing in beautiful powder snow is in itself reason enough to take up alpine touring!
What's more, there are plenty of places to practice this sport in Quebec. At Mont Adstock, which I mentioned earlier, there's an off-piste sector accessible by alpine hikers. Otherwise, the Gaspé Peninsula is full of places to explore, whatever your level. For example, the Station touristique Pin Rouge is ideal for beginners who want to stay in a safer environment. The Parc national de la Gaspésie is paradise for those who want to venture off the beaten track.
I could go on and on, so many great winter experiences are available in Quebec, but I hope these 5 favorites will inspire you to get moving and explore this season. The best way to enjoy it, despite the cold and shorter days, is to take full advantage of the many winter sports and winter joys!