Experience Immense Magazine - Adventures & Discoveries edition

experience

SPECIAL EDITION

En.

immense Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean

| Quebec, Canada | 2016 2017

Adventures & Discoveries ne For Everyo

With the Family

at In the Gre Outdoors Culture

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Freewheeli

Tourisme Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean 412, boulevard Saguenay Est, bureau 100 Arr. Chicoutimi (Québec) G7H 7Y8 418-543-9778 | 1-877-253-8387 saguenaylacsaintjean.ca Julie Chiasson Sales and Marketing Director Marianne Parent Editing & Graphics Agent Jeannôt Tremblay Advertising Sales

P H O T O S : R O S I A N N E P I C H E T T E - V O I L E M E R C AT O R (S A I L B O AT ) , @ A L E X X E G O (I N S TA G R A M)

yqbmedia.com Anne-Marie Boissonnault President and Editor Diane Laberge Main Contributor Yves Ouellet Contributor Dominique Laflamme Editorial Director Caroline Décoste Copy Editor Jennifer Campbell Project Manager Julie Boulanger Art Director Laura Doherty Graphic Designer Audrey Geoffroy-Plante Graphic Designer Stéphanie Langlois Graphic Designer Kathleen Forcier Production Manager Peter McCambridge Translation Elizabeth West Copy Editing PHOTOGRAPHERS Yves Bergeron, Philippe Boily, Richard Borand, Valérie Busque, Paul Cimon, Jean‑Michel Décoste, Alain Dumas, Sophie G-Bergeron, Sophie Lavoie, Nicolas Lévesque, André‑Olivier Lyra, André Lemelin, Sarah Mazière, Rosianne Pichette, Jonathan Robert, Charles‑David Robitaille, Fabrice Tremblay, Frédéric Tremblay, Jean Tremblay, Martial Tremblay, Pierre‑Philippe Tremblay, Wally's Photography On the cover: Mathieu Dupuis (sunset), Charles-David Robitaille (via ferrata and bikes), Nicolas Lévesque (zoo), André‑Olivier Lyra (village), Microbrasserie du Lac Saint‑Jean (beer) ADVERTISING Tourisme Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Experience Immense Adventures and Discoveries is published by YQB Média, brand publisher, for Tourisme Saguenay–Lac‑Saint‑Jean.

A digital version of the guide is also available online at magazineimmense.com Printed in CANADA by SOLISCO Copyright © YQB Média, 2016 YQB Média and Tourisme Saguenay– Lac‑Saint‑Jean take all possible precautions to ensure factual accuracy. They are not responsible for errors in the information published. All reproduction, in full or in part, is forbidden without the written permission of YQB Média.

Please recycle this copy.

Boundless Adventure

Ha s h ta g me!

In a part of the country that’s larger than life, it stands to reason that adventures in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean are anything but Lilliputian.

Here, everything’s huge, sensational, dizzyingly high, and absolutely boundless. As you hop from one adventure to the next, you’ll soon see why passionate locals have made this corner of Québec their very own outdoor playground.

Saguenay– Lac-SaintJean has no end of plains, forests, mountains, and rivers.

There’s even a lake as big as a sea.

In Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, adventure and eco-tourism go hand in hand. Like to think big while you get a real feel for down-to-earth, authentic experiences? Like to make your head spin without losing your way? You’ve come to the right place. What locals call the Kingdom of Blueberries has no end of plains, forests, mountains, and rivers. There’s even a lake as big as a sea.

Making your way around Lac Saint-Jean is a must for nature buffs. Head clockwise or anticlockwise for an adventure that’s anything but ordinary. Same goes for the Route du Fjord: either side boasts more than its fair share of jaw-dropping experiences for anyone looking to get away from it all—or get the adrenalin pumping.

Post your vacation photos and selfies to Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Hashtag #SagLac or #SaguenayLac to make even more people jealous!

There’s all the space you need to race through the woods for hours—on foot or on horseback. You’ll love cycling your way along the fjord or around Lac Saint-Jean, sea kayaking, exploring raging rivers, making it to the top of a via ferrata, playing at Tarzan for treetop adventures, and sleeping with your head in the clouds. Experience Immense Adventures and Discoveries is here to help you dive into a world of adventure, a world where a little R&R also comes in XXL. Ready?

Set? Let’s go!

Your Friends from the Saguenay– Lac‑Saint‑Jean tourism industry saguenaylacsaintjean.ca

saguenaylacsaintjean.com 03

saguenay lac-saint-jean

Putting Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean

Meet O ur P art ners !

on the map!

(page 18)

02. Association de vélo de montagne du Saguenay– Lac‑Saint-Jean (page 16)

03. Auberge des Battures

Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean is like… an inside-out island!

It’s not a piece of land surrounded by water, it’s a gigantic lake that spills into a fabulous river and on again into a mythical fjord. All in a sea of plains, spruce trees, and mountains. It’s an extraordinary place where people and nature live side by side. And where dreams of all kinds of adventure become reality.

(page 12)

04. Auberge des 21 (page 12)

05. Centre de vélo de montagne de Saint‑Félicien (page 14)

06. Chalets St-Fulgence (Les) (page 12)

07. Croisières du Fjord (page 10)

(page 13)

08. Domaine Le Cageot Vineyard (page 12)

09. Équinox Aventure (page 16)

10. Fjord en Kayak

(page 06)

25. Parc de la caverne Trou de la Fée

12. HopEra, microbrasserie et pizzéria

(page 06)

26. Parc thématique l’Odyssée des Bâtisseurs

(page 11)

13. Hôtel Château Roberval

(page 17)

(page 09)

14. Hôtel du Jardin

16. Le Montagnais— Hôtel multiservice (pages 13 and 19)

17. Microbrasserie Le Coureur Des Bois (page 11)

18. Microbrasserie du Lac Saint-Jean

US

(pages 11 and 13)

17

DolbeauMistassini Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon

14 34 33 05

Saint-Felicien

Lac Saint-Jean Mashteuiatsh

20. Microbrasserie Riverbend

31 13

Roberval

32

01 15 20 Saint-Gedeonde-Grandmont 23 22 18 11

08

Chambord

Desbiens 25

Jonquiere Hebertville

Lac-Bouchette

30

04

28

21

Saguenay La Baie

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30. Sir William Price Heritage Centre (pages 09 and 12)

(pages 09 and 13)

(page 08) Go to velodemontagnesaglac.com for locations

Saint-Fulgence 24 Sainte-Rose-du-Nord 07

Chicoutimi 16 12

(page 10)

34. Zoo sauvage de St‑Félicien 02

06

29. Saguenay– St. Lawrence Marine Park

(pages 13 and 17)

Parc national des Monts-Valin

26

(page 20 and 21)

33. Ville de Saint‑Félicien

09

Alma

28. Promotion Saguenay

32. Village historique de Val-Jalbert

(page 11)

19

(page 06)

(page 13)

(pages 11 and 13)

02

27. Pointe-Noire Interpretation and Observation Centre

31. Vélos Mashk

19. Microbrasserie La Chouape

Peribonka

23. Pacini Restaurant, Alma

(pages 07 and 13)

11. H2O expédition

(page 14)

QUÉBEC

(page 09)

24. Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux

(page 12)

15. Hôtel Universel Alma

CANADA

22. Notre Hôtel

(page 13)

(page 09)

N

21. Musée du Fjord

I L L U S T R AT I O N : M A R I E - M I C H E L L E G A G N É

01. Association des gîtes du Saguenay– Lac-Saint-Jean

03

Fjord du Sagu enay

Parc national du Fjord-du-saguenay

Sacre-Coeur

RiviereEternite

10

Tadoussac L'Anse- Petity a n Saint-Jean Sague Saguenay– St. Lawrence Marine Park

27

29

With so many new things to discover,

YOUR VISIT WILL BE OUTSTANDING! Starting in July

DON’T MISS THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE OF THE SUMMER!

NEW A NIGHT WALK AT THE ZOO

CREATED BY

zoosauvage.org

PARC DE LA CAVERNE TROU DE LA FÉE

The Great Outdoors

Pick your superlative. Nothing is too o v e r- t h e - t o p . B u t m a n y a d e s c r i p t i o n won’t manage to do the whole thing justice. Because this huge outdoor playground is where happiness lives.

POINTE-NOIRE INTERPRETATION AND OBSERVATION CENTRE

A Well-Kept Secret Pointe-Noire, the “black point,” is a rocky overhang where the waters of the St. Lawrence Estuary meet those of the Saguenay Fjord. Less than a kilometre from the Baie-Sainte-Catherine–Tadoussac ferry, it’s always worth a stop, if only to admire the belugas come to play off the shores of the fjord. Visit the lighthouse keeper’s house and pull up an Adirondack chair any sunny afternoon.

More Than a Cave Welcome to your digital detox.

You won’t be picking up any signals in the canyon at Parc de la caverne Trou de la Fée, so leave your tablets and smart phones behind.

Instead, keep your eyes peeled and record every magical moment with your mind’s eye for an adventure to remember. For a little more depth, strap on a helmet and enter the only granite cave in Canada that has 12,000 years of history to explore. Or for an

extra high, speed along a zipline 50 metres above the ground. When you’re harnessed in tight above the thundering water of Rivière Métabetchouane, every view is magical.

to 1920. Move on to the walkways that hug the rock eight metres above the water and finish off with Sentier de la coulée verte, a spectacular trail with all the charm of a Chinese garden.

Not so fond of thrills and spills? Go hiking instead.

Tackle the waterfall trail (3-Fall trail) first, then stroll up the promenade to the remains of a hydro­electric power station that dates back

Keep your eyes peeled and record every magical moment with your mind’s eye for an adventure to remember.

parcscanada.gc.ca/saguenay Baie-Sainte-Catherine 418-235-4703 (off-season) 418-237-4383 (in-season)

H2O EXPÉDITION

Canyoning the Gorges First came rafting and canoe, kayak, and pedal boat rentals.

And now H20 expédition in Desbiens has added canyoning to the list! Pull on your thermal body suit and helmet, fasten your harness, and you’re all set! River walks, underground grottos, and frog jumps in pools of water await. For adventurers age 7 and up. aventure-expedition.com 125 rue du Quai Desbiens 1-866-697-7238

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cavernetroudelafee.ca Chemin Trou de la Fée 7e Avenue, Desbiens 418-346-1242

EVENING VISITS

Fridays and Saturdays after Labour Day

P H O T O S : P A R C S C A N A D A (P O I N T E - N O I R E ) , P A R C D E L A C AV E R N E T R O U D E L A F É E , H 2 O E X P É D I T I O N , C H A R L E S - D AV I D R O B I TA I L L E ( V I A F E R R ATA ) , S A R A H M A Z I È R E (D O M E )

The Great Outdoors

The Great Outdoors

PARC AVENTURES CAP JASEUX

Adventure Ahoy!

Seventh heaven is right this way!

Seventh heaven is right this way! At Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux, the Fjord en Arbres treetop climbing circuits are fun for all the family. From the Bambino to the family courses, nine giant ziplines set pulses racing deep in the forest. Adrenalin junkies can choose the Extreme circuit, with only a trapeze net standing between them and the ground. Or opt for goosebumps on the via ferrata, a vertical course on a rock face 35 m above the water. You can also explore the fjord in a kayak,

followed by a massage on the beach. Then spend the night in a tree house, a hanging bubble (8 m up a pine tree), or in a dome beneath the stars that also boasts stunning fjord views.

There’s magic in the air when there’s a full moon or a meteor shower on the way! capjaseux.com 250 chemin de la Pointe‑aux-Pins Saint-Fulgence 1-888-674-9114

The Great Outdoors

A TRIP TO THE ZOO HAS NEVER BEEN SO EXCITING! Zoo sauvage de St-Félicien boasts a host of standout new additions that make it this summer’s must-see destination.

08 experience immense

Meet more than 1,000 animals by day, with 75 species representing the boreal world. Your stay to remember includes a short movie to get the senses racing, an eye-opening hike through nature, a 60-minute train ride that never fails to impress, plus a relaxing family picnic area, splash pad, carp touch pool, fun kids’ farm, and lots of other events you won’t want to miss.

You might even see a baby animal being born. They're so cute!

A mini animal clinic and nursery are both new for summer 2016. You might even see a baby animal being born.

They’re so cute!

From July, be sure to explore Anima Lumina, a nighttime circuit created by Moment Factory. It’s the summer event everyone’s talking about, an immersive tour that explores the animal world using

virtual images. Nature has never been so close, with visitors surrounded by magical sights and sounds that respect the zoo’s natural surroundings.

Think of it as nature’s very own moonlight symphony, a treat for all the senses. zoosauvage.org 2230, boulevard du Jardin Saint-Félicien 1-800-667-5687

P H O T O S : N I C O L A S L É V E S Q U E ( T R A I N , P O L A R B E A R , S K U N K ) , S O P H I E G - B E R G E R O N (K I D S) , M A P L O @ V I D E O T R O N . C A (H Ô T E L D U J A R D I N) , WA L LY ' S P H O T O G R A P H Y ( V I L L E D E S A I N T- F É L I C I E N)

ZOO SAUVAGE DE ST-FÉLICIEN

The Great Outdoors

VILLE DE SAINT-FÉLICIEN

HÔTEL CHÂTEAU ROBERVAL

HÔTEL DU JARDIN

SIR WILLIAM PRICE HERITAGE CENTRE

Family Fun

Adventure 2 Museum Adventures in 1 Awaits

A WellDeserved Rest

This summer, enjoy a family adventure at Zoo sauvage de St-Félicien and stay at Hôtel du Jardin. The four-star hotel is only 5 kilometres from the zoo and boasts 85 renovated rooms, an indoor pool and spa, a dining room with children’s menu, and a bistro.

Many packages available!

Ready for a different kind of museum?

The Sir William Price Heritage Centre in Jonquière impresses inside and out.

Get the ball rolling with two exhibits in the old Anglican chapel then move outside for the From Faith to History open-air exhibit, as well as a grinding wheel, in downtown Kénogami.

Val-Jalbert, the zoo, the Véloroute, boat tours, and museums—adventure awaits in Lac-Saint-Jean! End your day back at Hôtel Château Roberval, with 124 renovated rooms, an indoor pool and new spa, a dining room with children’s menu, and a bistro. Several packages available!

hoteldujardin.com 1400 boulevard du Jardin Saint-Félicien 1-800-463-4927

sirwilliamprice.com 1994 rue Price Jonquière 418-695-7278

Pedal boat, kayak, stand up paddleboard, or raft your way along Rivière Ashuapmushuan for thrills and spills to remember. Explore the region’s trails by road or mountain bike. Get a bird’s-eye view of nature from a zipline or aerial adventure course. Let nature lock you in a cage while the animals roam free at a zoo like no other.

Whatever you choose, adventure awaits in Saint-Félicien!

chateauroberval.com 1225 boulevard Marcotte Roberval 1-800-661-7611

ville.stfelicien.qc.ca

NOTRE HÔTEL

Charming and Intimate Planning to visit Zoo sauvage de St-Félicien as a couple or with the family?

Start your adventure by dropping your bags at Notre Hôtel in Alma. Right in the heart of the region, downtown, this charming 3-star hotel boasts 30 spacious and newly renovated rooms.

Enjoy our special package that includes one night’s accommodation, a fullcourse supper at Le Coq Rôti restaurant, breakfast, and admission to the zoo.

Kids will love the complimentary high speed wireless Internet and the outdoor water games near the hotel. notrehotel.ca 450, rue Sacré-Cœur Ouest Alma 1-877-917-3222

Perfect for your visit to the zoo! saguenaylacsaintjean.com 09

The Great Outdoors

TRAVEL LIGHT Luggage transportation available

SAGUENAY–ST. LAWRENCE MARINE PARK

A Whale of a Time

Whale-watching tours In a hard-bottom inflatable or a touring boat, a whale-watching tour is a great way to observe these giants in their natural habitat. Tours leave from various points along the Saguenay and St. Lawrence rivers.

Whale watching from the shore Observe up to six species of whale with the naked eye from five different points on dry land. Cameras at the ready!

Discovery Activities The land network boasts 23 discovery centres along the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay Fjord.

Interesting and knowledgeable guides will tell you all about life by the water, from more about lighthouses to the history of the First Nations.

Sea kayaking Take a kayak with or without a guide and enjoy the campgrounds that run alongside the park. parcmarin.qc.ca Tadoussac 418-235-4703

CROISIÈRES DU FJORD

All Aboard the Water Bus The fjord has recently reinvented the whole concept of public transport.

Take a seat on the marine shuttle, and chances are you’ll be keen to sign up for the weekly pass in no time.

Leave the car behind and visit the fjord on foot or by bike—it couldn’t be simpler! A marine shuttle leaves from no fewer than five pick-up points (Tadoussac, L’Anse-Saint-Jean, Rivière-Éternité, Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, and La Baie) every day, meaning you can come up with your very own cycle route, hopping from one shore to the other depending on how difficult the next portion of the Véloroute du Fjord bike trail is shaping up to be. Croisières du Fjord and its partners have up to nine two- and three-day packages to let you spend your time sea kayaking, hiking, buggying, and sailing. Spend the night right there, at an inn, in one of the region’s 50 cozy B&Bs, at an outfitters, or opt for something more unusual at Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux. You can also hop on the marine shuttle just for the fun of it. Seven-day open tickets are available. croisieresdufjord.com Chicoutimi 1-800-363-7248

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Interesting and knowledgeable guides will tell you all about life by the water.

P H O T O S : M A R T I A L T R E M B L AY (F J O R D) , P A U L C I M O N (B O AT ) , P A R C S C A N A D A (S A G U E N AY– S T. L AW R E N C E M A R I N E P A R K ) , VA L É R I E B U S Q U E ( WA I T E R)

Leave the car behind and visit the fjord on foot or by bike.

The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park has no shortage of natural treasures, with riches almost as big as the whales that ripple its waters.

Adventures in brewing

MICROBRASSERIE DU LAC SAINT-JEAN

Adventures in Brewing S a g u e n a y – L a c - S a i n t - J e a n stands out for its exceptional microbreweries and divine craft brews. Here, we like our suds to be something special— and we can’t wait to clink glasses with you. Cheers!

30 Crafty Beers Microbrasserie du Lac in Saint-Gédéon has beer on 16 different taps, while hop lovers can choose from a menu of over 30 different beers, many of them exclusive to the microbrewery and available from the on-site store. The names are great, too… how does a Tante Tricotante, Gros Mollet, Boutefeu, or a Frappabord sound?

Meanwhile, fine bistro fare is on the menu. Sit outside in the sun from morning to evening, or gather round the fire for a Saturday jam session.

Owners Annie, Charles, and Marc have even come up with weekly events… Drop by Thursdays for Bluegrass

& BBQ, while Friday night is DJ night. No wonder Microbrasserie du Lac is a must-do in Saint‑Gédéon!

microdulac.com 120 rue de la Plage Saint-Gédéon 418-345-8758

A must-do in Saint‑Gédéon!

ROUTE DES BIÈRES

Beer, Straight Ahead Fans of craft beers, laid-back microbreweries, and good friends are all set for adventure on the local beer route, La Route des Bières. One day and a few hundred kilometres is all it takes, passing through Saint-Félicien and Saint-Gédéon on the way from Jonquière to Alma. There are five stops on the trail: the Microbrasserie du Lac Saint‑Jean (Saint-Gédéon) microbrewery, the HopEra microbrewery in Jonquière, the Riverbend production facilities and store in Alma, La Chouape (Saint-Félicien), and the Coureur Des Bois microbreweries. Now all you need is a designated driver! microdulac.com 120 rue de la Plage Saint-Gédéon 418-345-8758

hopera.ca 2377 rue St-Dominique Jonquière 418-412-9900

microriverbend.com 945 avenue Sicard Alma 418-758-1519

lachouape.com 1070 rang Double Saint-Félicien 418-679-3355

Coureur Des Bois 1551 boul. Wallberg Dolbeau-Mistassini 418-979-1197

saguenaylacsaintjean.com

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chalets-st-fulgence.com 306 rang Sainte-Marie Saint-Fulgence 418-674-1402

Two 4-star chalets for rent 20 minutes from Chicoutimi by the Monts-Valin National Park.

Les Chalets St‑Fulgence

4

aubergedes21.com 621 rue Mars La Baie 1-800-363-7298

Treat your senses to something new.

Auberge des 21

1

15 battures.ca 6295 boulevard de la Grande-Baie Sud La Baie 1-800-668-8234

domainelecageot.com 5455 chemin Saint-André Jonquière 418-547-2857

Make the most of your getaway by sampling our spirits and farmfresh products!

fjordenkayak.ca 359 rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste L’Anse-Saint-Jean 1-866-725-2925

Get ready to fall in love with sea kayaking and the fjord, complete with its history, stories, and legends.

Fjord en Kayak

6

sirwilliamprice.com 1994 rue Price Jonquière 418-695-7278

Learn more about the forestry industry, the Anglican denomination, and more in this former chapel!

Sir William Price Heritage Centre

3

Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean

A great place to eat? A fun visit?

A beautiful place to stay? A thrilling experience? A must‑see destination?

H e r e , t h e r e ’s a l w a y s s o m e t h i n g n e w t o d i s c o v e r. J u s t a s k !

Standing before the bay between fjord and forest, this privately run hotel is a favourite with nature lovers and foodies alike.

Domaine Le Cageot Vineyard

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2

Auberge des Battures

favourite addresses

saguenay lac-saint-jean

mashk.com 1695 boulevard Horace-J.-Beemer Roberval 418-515-1630

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museedufjord.com 3346 boulevard Grande-Baie Sud La Baie 1-866-697-5077

valjalbert.com 95 rue Saint-Georges Chambord 418-275-3132

Take a trip back in time to a 1920s company town that’s more alive than ever today.

ville.stfelicien.qc.ca

Three mighty rivers converge in Saint‑Félicien, a natural place to meet for wonderful scenery, culture galore, and the outdoors at its best.

Ville de Saint‑Félicien

15

microdulac.com 120 rue de la Plage Saint-Gédéon 418-345-8758

Over 30 craft beers, many of them exclusive, quench the thirst of hop lovers.

Choose from an authentically Italian menu for breakfast, an express lunch, or a fullcourse supper. hoteluniversel.com 1000 boulevard des Cascades Alma 418-668-0872

9 Microbrasserie du Lac Saint-Jean

Pacini restaurant, Alma

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lachouape.com 1134 boulevard Sacré-Cœur Saint-Félicien 418-613-0622

Come discover our selection of craft beers (bottled and on tap) in our friendly bistro.

Microbrasserie La Chouape

8

Village historique de Val‑Jalbert

A family outing that has both feet in the fjord!

Musée du Fjord

Bike repairs and maintenance.

Quality service at competitive prices.

Vélos Mashk

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capjaseux.com 250 chemin de la Pointe-aux-Pins Saint-Fulgence 1-888-674-9114

Climb a tree or paddle the fjord. An experience like no other—right down to the beds.

Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux

lemontagnais.qc.ca 1080 boulevard Talbot Chicoutimi 1-800-463-9160

The address for parents and kids, with 12,000 sq. ft. of Aquafun

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Hôtel Le Montagnais

P H O T O S : A U B E R G E D E S B AT T U R E S , P I E R R E - P H I L I P P E T R E M B L AY (D O M A I N E L E C A G E O T ) , J E A N T R E M B L AY (M U S É E D U F J O R D) , S A R A H M A Z I È R E (C A P J A S E U X ) , A N D R É - O L I V I E R LY R A ( VA L- J A L B E R T ) , Y V E S B E R G E R O N ( V I L L E D E S A I N T- F É L I C I E N)

Freewheeling Adventure HÔTEL UNIVERSEL ALMA

Cyclists Welcome Is the Véloroute des Bleuets bike trail on your vacation calendar? If so, Hôtel Universel Alma is the perfect starting point. With your partner or the rest of the family—every service you could think of is within easy reach. Fuel up at the Italian-style restaurant Pacini or soothe those weary muscles at the health spa. Dive into the indoor pool, then move on to the spa or enjoy the incredible view of the river from our patio. Hungry for more? Catch a movie before bed.

All without leaving the hotel! Ask about our new package!

Freewheeling Adventure

hoteluniversel.com 1000 boulevard des Cascades Alma 1-800-263-5261

Cycling is a great way to explore the region, whether you hop in the saddle for a little exercise or just to take in s o m e o u t s t a n d i n g s c e n e r y.

The perfect starting point to the Véloroute des Bleuets.

With 700 kilometres of road-biking options and 200 kilometres of mountain bike trails up ahead, cyclists can admire views the length and breadth of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, all in stunning surroundings.

Mountain bikers of all ages and stripes can test their skills on a beautiful network of 60 kilometres of trails.

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CENTRE DE VÉLO DE MONTAGNE DE SAINT-FÉLICIEN

Adrenalin-Filled Day Deep in the forest, down by the river, or up on the mountain, the trails at the mountain bike centre in Saint‑Félicien stretch as far as the eye can see. Mountain bikers of all ages and stripes can test their skills on a beautiful network of 60 kilometres of trails, pedalling to compete or just for fun, all in safe surroundings.

High ropes courses are also popular, with an aerial adventure course that cuts right over the thundering Rivière à l’Ours. Ziplines and other high-wire acts add to the fun and make for an adrenalin-filled day for all the family. velostfelicien.com 500 Petit Rang Saint-Félicien 1-866-900-5243, ext. 3352

Family / Recreational

Touring Cyclist

Cycling for everyone!

Performance Cyclist

THE BIKE EXPERIENCE IN SAGUENAY-LAC-SAINT-JEAN

A BIKE ROUTE

OVER 700 KILOMETERS LONG Breathtaking landscapes Bienvenue cyclistes! accredited accommodations Marine shuttles Luggage transportation service An informative guide for planning your stay!

MD

ORDER YOUR GUIDE OR VISIT ONLINE

Photo : Paul Cimon

bikeexperience.ca

bikeexperience.ca

saguenaylacsaintjean.com 15

ÉQUINOX AVENTURE

Around the lake in 5 days?

Get on your bike!

This summer, it’s time to get back in the saddle and go all out around Lac Saint-Jean in just five days.

But you’ll want a break from all that pedalling, so Équinox Aventure has come up with an easy route that includes 256 kilometres of highlights from the Véloroute des Bleuets bike path.

ASSOCIATION DE VÉLO DE MONTAGNE DU SAGUENAY–LAC-SAINT-JEAN

Happiness on Two Wheels In the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, bike paths stretch all the way to the boreal horizon. Mountain bikers tear down rugged hills, power through forests, and tackle trails that have been put to the test by the world’s top runners.

Local passion for mountain biking stretches back to the birth of the sport in the 1980s. No surprise, then, that we have a stunning outdoor playground to explore. Local clubs and centres have years of expertise behind them and make sure the network is constantly improving, all while respecting the highest quality standards.

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The Saguenay region’s seven mountain bike centres (six crosscountry centres plus an enduro club) have over 200 kilometres of trails to explore using the Ondago app. velodemontagnesaglac.com

The Saguenay region’s seven mountain bike centres have over 200 kilometres of trails.

museum, the Bilodeau economuseum, the historical village of Val-Jalbert, and the Microbrasserie du Lac Saint-Jean microbrewery. All to make sure you get from Point A to…

Point A. A for Alma, that is!

The Grand Tour package includes accommodation (Auberge Îledu‑Repos, Motel Chute des Pères, Auberge des Berges, Motel LacSaint‑Jean), breakfast, luggage transfers, meetings before you set out, and support in case you run into problems. Plus, along your way, you get to visit Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon, the Louis Hémon

All to make sure you get from Point A to... Point A. A for Alma, that is!

equinoxaventure.ca 1-888-668-7381

P H O T O S : C H A R L E S - D AV I D R O B I TA I L L E ( A S S O C I AT I O N D E V É L O D E M O N TA G N E D U S A G U E N AY– L A C - S A I N T- J E A N) , V É L O R O U T E D E S B L E U E T S ( É Q U I N O X AV E N T U R E ) , A N D R É - O L I V I E R LY R A ( VA L- J A L B E R T ) , C H A R L E S - D AV I D R O B I TA I L L E (C H U T E ) , P H I L I P P E B O I LY (O D Y S S É E D E S B ÂT I S S E U R S)

Freewheeling Adventure

Culture & Adventure

Culture & adventure Discover the wonders of nature and the ingenuity of the human mind.

Be curious about past and future— as you share the present moment with your hosts.

VILLAGE HISTORIQUE DE VAL‑JALBERT

A Trip Back to 1927 An authentic company town from the 1920s, today Val-Jalbert is more alive than ever. Stroll around forty original buildings, gossip with colourful characters, and enjoy natural surroundings and views that will take your breath away!

1. A waterfall higher than Niagara The Ouiatchouan waterfall is simply spectacular! Take the cable car for beautiful views out over Lac Saint-Jean, and admire the waterfall from behind the glass at the panoramic viewpoint.

2. GPS in hand Go geocaching to see Val-Jalbert as you’ve never seen it before—on an interactive treasure hunt that’s fun for all the family.

3. A multimedia show Twenty minutes of village history featuring period characters, 360° projections, and special effects.

4. Back to school In the convent, sit in on a lesson as Mother Superior teaches her convent girls. Take a seat and join in the game.

5. One-of-a-kind accommodation Enjoy the culinary delights of the terroir cooked up by chef Carl Murray as you admire the illuminated waterfall. Then spend the night in a wonderful room in a period house or above the general store. valjalbert.com 95 rue Saint-Georges Chambord 418-275-3132

Admire the waterfall from behind the glass at the panoramic viewpoint.

PARC THÉMATIQUE L’ODYSSÉE DES BÂTISSEURS

(Hydro)electrifying!

From 25 metres off the ground, the views will take your breath away.

The kids will love climbing the water cistern. From 25 metres off the ground, the views of the L’Isle-Maligne hydroelectric plant far below will take your breath away, and Aquavolt—the 360° show projected inside the old water tank—promises to electrify the senses.

In the museum, the Au-delà de l’eau (Beyond Water) exhibit takes a playful, interactive look at the adventure of

water in the region, past, present, and future, while a 160 m2 floor map shows off just how big the area is.

Back outside, don’t miss the theme park for games, high ropes courses, and family fun. odysseedesbatisseurs.com 1671 avenue du Pont Nord Alma 1-866-668-2606

saguenaylacsaintjean.com

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Something Different

Keep an eye out for our guide and discover our beautiful region.

Kick back and relax on your next trip. Savour the t e r r o i r, t a k e i n t h e h u s t l e and bustle of our towns and cities, enjoy the rich local culture, and admire the world-class views.

experience

HORS SÉRIE

Fr. - En

immense Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean

| Quebec, Canada | 2016-2017

Arômes et saveurs Flavours

& Fragrances, Discover a World of Taste

z Découvrees nos bonn ... adresses

... nos urs ambassade s de saveur

Nos coups de coeur ...

SAGMAG16-CahierGourmand-02.indd 1

oducteurs ... et des prez nous bien de ch

5 SIMPLE STEPS TO PLAN YOUR GETAWAY TO SAGUENAY– LAC‑SAINT-JEAN

1 2 3

Be inspired by this guide to begin discovering.

Visit saguenaylacsaintjean.ca to find out more.

Pick up a copy of the tourist guide.

4 5

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @saguenay_lac.

Read the past issues of IMMENSE magazine at magazineimmense.com.

2016-05-30 9:32 AM

ASSOCIATION DES GÎTES DU SAGUENAY–LAC-SAINT-JEAN

Home Sweet Home Sleeping in a B&B has a little je ne sais quoi about it that makes you feel like you’re in your own bed when you couldn’t be further from home. For the finest adventures with plenty of local flavour, you’ve come to the right address. Get to know the locals up by the lake or folks with deep roots in the Saguenay. Service doesn’t get any more personal than this.

A good address is like a good recipe—it’s always worth sharing!

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Enjoy the freshest terroir produce, homemade jams, and artisanal cheeses over breakfast as adventure beckons. Here comes the map, so take out your

notebook and listen carefully.

The 50 members that make up Association des gîtes du Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean are like that, you see: friendly and generous by nature. For them, a good address is like a good recipe—it’s always worth sharing! bleugite.com 755 rue Price Ouest Alma 418-668-4125

P H O T O S : A S S O C I AT I O N D E S G Î T E S D U S A G U E N AY– L A C - S A I N T- J E A N , L E M O N TA G N A I S – H Ô T E L M U LT I S E R V I C E

Something Different

Ex perience Immens e Flavours & Fragrances

LE MONTAGNAIS—HÔTEL MULTISERVICE

THE EXPERIENCE HOTEL Travelling with the family and looking for a mega “everything under the same roof” adventure? Make a beeline for the biggest hotel in northeastern Québec and discover a new approach to vacation fun for an unforgettable stay!

In the borough of Chicoutimi in downtown Saguenay, Hôtel Le Montagnais has come up with a concept that will thrill the whole family. Whether you’re relaxing in the comfort of the newly renovated rooms, ready for some R&R in the hotel’s indoor garden or hammam, pulling up a chair in the bar and restaurant for a pre-dinner drink, or sitting down for supper, it’s four-star treatment all the way. Plus, the entertainment options are lots of watery fun!

Discover a new approach to vacation fun for an unforgettable stay!

12,000 SQ. FT. Aquafun is a 12,000 sq. ft. water park that will have the young and the young at heart in their element. While the kids enjoy the massive indoor pool, with its slides, 33 play structures, and water jets, not to mention the Supersplash (a giant bucket that releases a flood of water from a height of almost 7 metres), Mom and Dad can take things easy at the health spa. It’s all free for guests, but if you’re just passing through, rest assured that the admission fee won’t break the bank.

of watery fun!

lemontagnais.qc.ca 1080 boulevard Talbot Chicoutimi 1-800-463-9160

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The backdrop to Saguenay is perfect for any celebration.

PROMOTION SAGUENAY

SAGUENAY’S URBAN BUZZ For a fun and friendly atmosphere, welcome to the city of Saguenay, a distinctly urban regional capital.

Between the fjord and the mountain, the backdrop to Saguenay is perfect for any celebration. All summer long, a merry-go-round of festivals showcases the local terroir and gourmet delights, not to mention fashion, music, and cinema. Parks, streets, and outdoor stages come alive by the river and all over town, right in the heart of nature.

Foodies will be in their element, too. Saguenay has plenty to satisfy any appetite, with a broad range of restaurants and chefs who are ready to help you savour and admire their every creation.

Storied History For the past 29 years, La Fabuleuse Histoire d’un Royaume has told the tale of a land rich in history through music and song, starring legends of old and colourful characters. Keen to learn more?

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There’s no shortage of museums to visit. Stop

by Musée du Fjord or La Pulperie de Chicoutimi, a local museum where the home of local painter (and barber) Arthur Villeneuve always impresses.

Then climb aboard the tourist bus to discover all the attractions for yourself.

Family Fun Don’t miss Parc Mille Lieux de la colline! The brand new family theme park is this summer’s big attraction. Climb, slide, and roll your way around the mountain. Explore the magic mine with Charbon the miner. Get lost in the huge natural labyrinth.

Hop aboard Loco the train. Do a little arts and crafts or come play at Place de la famille Le Lait! It all adds up to an unforgettable day with the family. saguenay.ca

P H O T O S : M A R T I A L T R E M B L AY (B O AT ) , F R É D É R I C T R E M B L AY (B U S) , J O N AT H A N R O B E R T (C A F É ) , P R O M O T I O N S A G U E N AY (S H O W ) , J E A N - M I C H E L D É C O S T E (P A R C M I L L E L I E U X ) , S E P A Q / R I C H A R D B O R A N D ( V I A F E R R ATA ) , A L A I N D U M A S (K AYA K )

Something Different

Something Different PROMOTION SAGUENAY

A GEM OF A FJORD The Michelin Guide lists the Saguenay Fjord as one of the planet’s must-see destinations—right there alongside the pyramids of Egypt and the Eiffel Tower!

Don’t miss it!

Lined with pretty villages, it’s one of the world’s 10 longest navigable fjords, its striking scenery punctuated with capes and steep cliffs that can only be reached from the water. Take a boat tour with Les Croisières du Fjord, catch the water shuttle from La Baie to Tadoussac, or set sail with Mercator.

There are all kinds of ways to explore it, with or without getting your feet wet!

La Route du Fjord Imagine a scenic route that cuts through picturepostcard villages for 234 kilometres. Discover it for yourself using the “Saguenay A City—A Fjord” app or take a guided tour on a luxury coach with

The Saguenay Fjord is one of the world’s 10 longest navigable fjords.

Aventures Fjord et Monde. Cyclists, meanwhile, will no doubt prefer to pedal their way along the new Véloroute du Fjord bike trail and hop from shore to shore aboard the water shuttle.

Enjoy the water by kayak or zodiac, hike the mountains, or tackle a via ferrata on your way to Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay or Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux, where treetop adventure, via ferrata, and kayaking expeditions out on the fjord await. You can even spend the night there— in a tree house high above the ground! saguenay.ca

saguenay lac-saint-jean

immense events

D i s cover a l l o u r g r ea t even ts ! saguenaylacsaintjean.ca

Traversée internationale du lac Saint-Jean traversee.qc.ca

May

PINK WATER pink-water.ca Festival de la bernache ville.st-fulgence.qc.ca

Les Régates de Saint-Félicien regates-sf.com

June

July Festival country de Labrecque festivalcountrylabrecque.ca

Festival Saint-Honoré dans l’vent sthonoredanslvent.com 22 experience immense

Festival international des arts de la marionnette à(In 2017 saguenay (fiams) only) fiams.com

Tour solidaire toursolidaire.ca

August Festival LM Country de Saint-Nazaire festivalcountrystnazaire.com

Festival de contes et légendes Atalukan atalukan.com Milot en rodéo facebook.com/miloten.rodeo Festival gymkhana de Falardeau festivalfalardeau.com

September Festiciel de Saint-Fulgence festiciel.com

P H O T O S : S A R A H M A Z I È R E (F E S T I VA L D E L A B E R N A C H E ) , F A B R I C E T R E M B L AY (F E S T I VA L S A I N T- H O N O R É D A N S L' V E N T ) , S O P H I E L AV O I E (P I N K WAT E R) , S T E V E M A S O N (F E S T I VA L C O U N T R Y D E L A B R E C Q U E ) , P H I L I P P E B O I LY ( T O U R S O L I D A I R E ) , A N D R É L E M E L I N (F E S T I VA L D E C O N T E S E T L É G E N D E S ATA L U K A N)

T he m ain s tage of t his fun-fil l ed regi o n fea tu res o ne show a nd festi va l a f ter the oth e r, w i t h com p et i t i on s a n d ex h i b i t i on s a d din g to th e mix. It makes an excit ing i nterru pted f low of mu si c , f la vo u rs, wo nd ers , a n d t h r i l l s .

It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.

Laurent Silvani

- Antoine de Saint-ExupĂŠry