You don't need to pack for Europe to experience stunning mountain views, charming rest stops and peak (pun intended) adventures this fall.
Less than 90 minutes from Québec City, Charlevoix is home to rugged mountain ranges, a renowned food scene and some of the most spectacular fall colours in Canada.
When you venture out into the Mountain Sector, you can see why people compare this must-visit region to Switzerland. Charming villages perched high on hills welcome you with authentic cuisine and culture, and the landscape beckons you to slow down at every turn.
Whether you have just a day, a week or more, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in Charlevoix's Mountain Sector this fall. Here are seven unique experiences that deserve a spot in your itinerary.
Drive the Mountain Road — a scenic route that boasts sweeping vistas
Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park
© Tourisme Charlevoix, Alexis Pageau
The Mountain Road, aka la Route des Montagnes, is a 121-kilometre-long stretch through Charlevoix's back country. The Mountain Road provides access to some of the highest peaks on the Canadian Shield, making it easy to see why the Switzerland comparison has stuck.
Visit in late September or early October, and you'll be treated to hillsides glowing in shades of red, orange and gold. Add Halte des petits lots to your GPS for a stunning photo op and perfect leg-stretching spot.
Pick up an authentic poutine at an iconic Québec roadside stop
Casse-Croûte Route 138
© Tourisme Charlevoix, Bon Appétit Qc
Did you even road trip through Charlevoix if you didn't get a poutine from a casse-croûte? It doesn't get much more authentic than a steaming hot plate of fries, curds and gravy from a roadside snack bar.
Some notable mentions include Casse-croûte le St-Aimé, Casse-croûte La Rencontre and Casse-Croûte Route 138 (where you can also get burgers, ice cream and say "bonjour!" to their giant bear statue).
Meet the ducklings at La Ferme Basque de Charlevoix
Ducklings at La Ferme Basque de Charlevoix.
© Tourisme Charlevoix
Charlevoix is as much known for its thriving food culture as it is for its gorgeous landscape, and a trip through the Mountain Sector gives you the chance to visit the local farms and producers at the heart of it all.
La Ferme Basque de Charlevoix is one of them. Stop by for a free tour of the outdoor breeding facilities to see the ducklings or head inside for tastings and to shop their products.
Taste artisanal raw honey from Miellerie Polynectar
Miellerie Polynectar
Miellerie Polynectar | Facebook
Honey from Charlevoix is something special. At Miellerie Polynectar, they create artisanal raw honey from the hives of bees that forage local flowers for unique flavours.
If you have time, make a reservation for their immersive forest experience where "the bees are your guides." The multisensory journey will show you the incredible diversity of the Mountain Sector forests and how that transforms the flavour of your next jar of honey.
Enjoy dramatic scenery and outdoor adventures at these neighbouring national parks
Grands-Jardins National Park
© Tourisme Charlevoix, Alexis Pageau
Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park takes its name from the peaks rising up on either side of the Malbaie River that carves through its centre. Hike up to see the landscape unfurl beneath you, or see it from the water via paddleboard or kayak.
Just an hour away is Grands-Jardins National Park. It's a must-visit for wildlife watching, hiking and more. Experienced climbers can also test their skills on the park's cliffside climbing routes at Mont de l'Ours and Mont du Gros-Bras, where the views are worth the ascent.
Discover sustainable agriculture at Les Viandes Bio de Charlevoix
Les Viandes Bio de Charlevoix
© Tourisme Charlevoix
Make a stop at Les Viandes Bio de Charlevoix to experience a unique agritourism destination in the heart of the region. Explore the self-guided farm tour, learn about organic farming and shop a selection of locally produced meats, charcuterie and gourmet specialties.
Plus, their whole product line is now available at La Grange, a newly opened facility complete with a tasting area and a glass-enclosed cured ham room. It's a chance to connect with the region's rich food culture while discovering products made with care and local expertise.
Sip craft beers and spirits at Menaud – Distillery & Brewery
Menaud
© Tourisme Charlevoix, Mickaël A. Bandassak
When the driving is done, make a stop at Menaud in Clermont. They produce spirits, beers and non-alcoholic beverages using as many local ingredients from Charlevoix as possible. While you'll see their products in stores all over Québec, nothing beats an on-site tasting.
Set against the backdrop of Charlevoix's mountains, it's the perfect place to slow down, sample the region's flavours and toast a day on the road.
With winding mountain roads, dramatic viewpoints, incredible food stops and scenery that could rival an alpine escape, it's easy to see why Charlevoix's Mountain Sector deserves a spot on your fall bucket list. Every stop along the way offers a new reason to pull over, explore and soak in the season.
From cozy inns and mountain lodges to unique accommodations tucked into the landscape, spending the night lets you experience the region the way it was meant to be enjoyed: slowly, with plenty of time for one more lookout, one more hike and one more memorable meal.
To learn more about the Mountain Sector, visit Tourisme Charlevoix's website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.