A weekend in the Basques Region - Tourisme Bas-Saint-Laurent

The Basques region is a place where the river, farmland, and history converge. Located between Rivière-du-Loup and Rimouski, this part of the Bas-Saint-Laurent reveals coastal landscapes, welcoming villages, and a heritage that bears witness to the passage of Basque fishermen—experts in whaling—several centuries ago.

Visitors come here to take the time to explore Trois-Pistoles and its fine dining spots, to take a trip to Île aux Basques, or to hike the trails that crisscross the region. With its coastline, natural beauty, and vibrant traditions, the Basques region is the perfect destination for a weekend of exploration in the Bas-Saint-Laurent.

Camping Plage Trois-Pistoles – Friday

To kick off your weekend in the Basques region, set up your tent or RV at Camping Plage Trois-Pistoles, a popular coastal camping destination in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region. Located right on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, the campground offers exclusive access to a natural beach where you can stroll, relax, and enjoy the salty air.

With its many campsites and on-site amenities, the campground provides a welcoming environment for outdoor enthusiasts. People come here mainly to experience sleeping by the river and admire the sunsets typical of the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, when the sky turns vibrant colors above the horizon.

A wonderful way to start this weekend in the Basques region, lulled by the sound of the waves and the peaceful atmosphere of the coast.

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Trois-PistolesCamping Plage Trois-Pistoles

Coop Kayak de mer des Îles – Saturday morning

To start your day, head out to sea on a sea kayaking excursion departing from the Trois-Pistoles wharf. Coop Kayak de mer des Îles offers a guided tour lasting about three hours, perfect for experiencing the St. Lawrence River in a new way during your weekend in the Basques region.

Suitable for beginners and families, this activity lets you explore the Basques coastline by sea kayak, along a shoreline that constantly changes its appearance. By turns bustling and colorful, then wilder with rocky reefs emerging from the river, the landscape unfolds gently as you paddle along.

The outing also includes a relaxing stop on the beach and opportunities to observe marine flora and fauna. A wonderful way to enjoy the river and kick off your weekend in the Bas-Saint-Laurent surrounded by nature.

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Tribord Café – La Boutik à Bâbord – Saturday at noon

On your way back from your kayaking trip, stop by the Tribord Café near the Trois-Pistoles wharf to relax and unwind. This new spot, which is already generating a lot of buzz, offers a cozy atmosphere where you can slow down after a morning on the river.

With its view of the St. Lawrence River, the café invites you to enjoy a good cup of coffee paired with a homemade snack in a friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect break to recharge your batteries and continue your weekend in the Basques region at a leisurely pace.

Before you leave, a stop at La Boutik à Bâbord is a must. Take the opportunity to treat yourself and bring home a souvenir inspired by the maritime world.

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Beaulieu Lookout – Saturday Afternoon

After your break at the Tribord Café, continue your getaway in the Basques region with a trip to the Beaulieu Lookout, located in the Parc du Porc-Pic area in Saint-Simon-de-Rimouski. Accessible on foot or by bike, the approximately two-kilometer scenic trail leads to several breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding landscapes.

The highlight is the Beaulieu Lookout, perched 183 meters above sea level. Its cantilevered platform gives the impression of being suspended between the sky and the river. A spectacular spot to stop, admire the estuary, and take the time to contemplate the landscapes of the Lower St. Lawrence.

Extend Your Stay…

Mont-Saint-Mathieu Park

Extend your stay in the Basques region with a visit to Mont-Saint-Mathieu Park, which will open its brand-new mountain biking center in spring 2026. This new network offers approximately 15 kilometers of trails, including six downhill trails, a skills park, and a practice area to allow cyclists to progress at their own pace.

Thanks to the chairlift, you can easily access the trails and fully enjoy the descents. As you ride through the mountain’s forests, several lookouts reveal the landscapes of the Bas-Saint-Laurent stretching to the horizon. A great way to add a dose of adventure to your weekend in the Basques region.

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Île aux Basques

For those looking to extend their stay in a different way, a guided tour of Île aux Basques offers a unique immersion in nature and history. Located off the coast of Trois-Pistoles, this island—protected by the Société Provancher since 1929—allows visitors to explore a landscape rich in historical artifacts and biodiversity.

Accompanied by a guide, you’ll explore the traces left by the First Nations who inhabited the island over 2,000 years ago, as well as those of the Basque fishermen who settled there as early as 1584. Today, the island is also known for birdwatching, with numerous species of migratory birds and, depending on the season, seals.

This approximately three-hour excursion, including boat transportation, is a wonderful way to discover another facet of the Bas-Saint-Laurent region and take the time to explore a place steeped in history.

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Fromagerie des Basques

Before hitting the road again, make a gourmet stop at Fromagerie des Basques, a must-visit in the region. This business, proudly rooted in its community, has built a solid reputation thanks to the quality of its dairy products and its expertise.

On-site, the gourmet counter offers a welcoming experience where you can sample various specialties in a relaxed atmosphere. With its selection of cheeses, cafeteria-style dishes, and ice cream, it’s the perfect place to enjoy one last gourmet break and wrap up your visit to the Basques region in the Bas-Saint-Laurent.

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