A weekend in the Rivière-du-Loup Region - Tourisme Bas-Saint-Laurent

Rivière-du-Loup is a destination where city and nature come together seamlessly. Bordering the St. Lawrence River, it captivates visitors with its rich historical heritage, vibrant cultural scene, local cuisine, and diverse outdoor activities. From waterfront strolls to culinary discoveries and river excursions, everything is in place to fully enjoy the region.

People come here to meet passionate local producers, savor the flavors of the Bas-Saint-Laurent, and explore the coastal landscapes surrounding the city. And when the day comes to a close, a spectacular show awaits. Rivière-du-Loup is renowned for offering some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world—a moment not to be missed during a weekend in the Bas-Saint-Laurent.

Auberge de la Pointe – Friday

To kick off your weekend in Rivière-du-Loup, check into the Auberge de la Pointe, a hotel located right on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Many of the 107 rooms offer breathtaking views of the river and the islands, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery as soon as you wake up.

The inn also offers various spaces to relax and savor the moment. Its large Panorama terrace overlooks the river and is a prime spot to admire the scenery and watch the sunset. On-site, the L’Espadon restaurant showcases cuisine inspired by the region, while the Le Mirador café-bar invites you to extend your evening with a drink facing the river.

Between the terraces, the wellness center, and the recreational facilities, everything is in place to start your stay in the Bas-Saint-Laurent by taking the time to relax.

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Beluga Whale Observatory – Saturday Morning

To start your day, head to Gros-Cacouna for a unique experience in Quebec: beluga whale watching in one of the areas where these marine mammals frequent the St. Lawrence River. This site is located near a major natural nursery where belugas come to give birth and raise their calves during the summer season.

The Putep ‘t-awt trail offers a roughly two-kilometer walking route that leads to an observatory perched atop Gros-Cacouna Mountain. From there, the view opens up onto the river, offering a prime vantage point for observing these iconic animals in their natural habitat. Access to the site and the observatory is free.

A landscaped terrace also allows visitors to gain height for a better view of the river. Binoculars are available to fully enjoy the panorama and try to spot belugas offshore.

The tour also includes a digital and interactive experience that allows visitors to discover Wolastoqey culture and the close relationship between the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation and the territory.

*Reservations are required to participate in the activity*

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Maqahamok – Wolastoqey Pub – Saturday at noon

Still in Cacouna, continue your immersion in Wolastoqey culture by stopping at Maqahamok – Wolastoqey Pub for lunch. This unique gathering place offers cuisine rooted in the region that highlights local ingredients from the Lower St. Lawrence, while drawing inspiration from Indigenous traditions and culture.

In a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant celebrates the bounty of land and sea through modern, hearty cuisine. Each dish reflects the importance of the region, the ingredients grown there, and the history surrounding them.

An ideal spot to enjoy an authentic meal and continue your culinary exploration during your visit to Cacouna.

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Parc de la Pointe – Saturday Afternoon

After lunch, take some time to stroll through Parc de la Pointe, located right at the foot of the Auberge de la Pointe. Stretching nearly five kilometers along the St. Lawrence River, this park offers one of the best views of the coastline in the entire Bas-Saint-Laurent region. Here, you can walk in perfect harmony with the river, carried along by the breeze and the estuary’s scenery.

The path along the water lets you fully enjoy the setting, with rest areas, a bike path, and open viewpoints overlooking the river. It’s also the perfect spot to treat yourself to a gourmet break along the way, with several snack bars where you can cool off with a soft-serve ice cream or a sweet summer treat.

A long-time favorite among visitors and locals alike, La Pointe remains today an essential destination for walking, relaxing, and admiring the landscapes that have made Rivière-du-Loup famous.

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Parc de la Pointe, Rivière-du-LoupMathieu Dupuis

Pizzeria des Battures – Saturday Night

After your stroll through Parc de la Pointe, head to the charming village of Notre-Dame-du-Portage for dinner. Pizzeria des Battures is a place that leaves no one indifferent, thanks to both its friendly atmosphere and its exceptional location right on the banks of the St. Lawrence River.

Housed in a former rectory, the pizzeria serves Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven, accompanied by a fine selection of craft beers, wines, and spirits. The huge terrace offers one of the most beautiful views in the region and is the perfect spot to watch the sun set over the river.

In this unique setting, between the flavors of the cuisine and the spectacular colors of the sky, the moment quickly becomes one of the most memorable highlights of a weekend in Rivière-du-Loup.

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Pizzeria-des-Battures-terrasse — Notre-Dame-du-PortagePizzeria des Battures

Extend Your Stay

Lafontaine Street – Parc des Chutes

Extend your stay in Rivière-du-Loup by starting your day with a stroll down Lafontaine Street, the main thoroughfare in downtown. Lined with cafés, bakeries, and local shops, this lively street is perfect for exploring the city’s businesses and finding a great spot for breakfast before continuing your day.

After this culinary treat, head to Parc des Chutes. This iconic natural site in Rivière-du-Loup lets you walk along the Rivière-du-Loup and admire the impressive waterfalls that have shaped the city’s history. The trails and footbridges offer several vantage points of this spectacular setting in the heart of nature.

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Swimming in Notre-Dame-du-Portage

To end your stay on a relaxing note, head to the outdoor municipal pool in Notre-Dame-du-Portage.

Located just a short walk from the St. Lawrence River, this seawater pool is the perfect place to cool off and enjoy the summer atmosphere of the Bas-Saint-Laurent one last time before hitting the road again.