A weekend in the Rimouski region - Tourisme Bas-Saint-Laurent

Rimouski is a destination where urban vibrancy meets the tranquility of the coastline. Bordered by the St. Lawrence River, the city stands out for its coastal landscapes, rich maritime heritage, and diverse cultural and natural attractions. As the largest city in eastern Quebec, Rimouski also shines as the capital of oceanography, an identity that shapes its relationship with the river and the sea. Just a few minutes from downtown, the surrounding villages add a more peaceful touch to your stay, nestled between the sea and the countryside.

People come here to immerse themselves in history by visiting a real submarine, to climb to the top of an iconic lighthouse, or to enjoy the many riverside spaces. Whether you choose to spend a weekend, a spontaneous getaway, or a well-planned short stay, Rimouski is the perfect destination for a getaway. A well-rounded destination that’s easy to explore over a weekend in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, offering discoveries, outdoor activities, and moments to savor.

Le Mange-Grenouille – Friday

To kick off your stay in Rimouski, head to Le Mange-Grenouille, in the heart of the village of Le Bic. This renowned, award-winning inn has carved out a prominent place among the finest restaurants in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, thanks to both the warmth of its hospitality and its culinary experience.

At the restaurant, Chef Samuel Roy showcases local ingredients through a delicious menu inspired by the region. Each dish is designed as a true culinary experience, where the flavors of the region are highlighted with precision and creativity.

Whether you’re enjoying the terrace with a view of Bic National Park or savoring a memorable meal, everything is in place to kick off your getaway to the Bas-Saint-Laurent on a warm and gourmet note.

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Bic National Park – Saturday

To make the most of your day, head to Bic National Park, located just a few minutes from the inn. This iconic destination in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region offers a unique immersion in the sea, mountains, and forests, set against a backdrop shaped by the St. Lawrence River.

Amid rocky headlands, bays, and coves, the landscape unfolds to the rhythm of the tides and the sea breeze. It’s an ideal spot for hiking and exploring the various trails that lead to remarkable viewpoints, including Pic Champlain, the park’s highest peak. From the top of its lookout, the view of the estuary is breathtaking and allows you to appreciate the full beauty of the landscape.

The park is also renowned for its natural wealth. Visitors can observe a wide variety of seabirds, as well as seals that often bask in the sun on the rocks near the shore. Families can also enhance their visit with interpretive activities led by park rangers who are also naturalists—a wonderful way to learn more about the park’s natural environments, wildlife, and unique features while enjoying the great outdoors. To explore the area in a different way, you can also venture out in a sea kayak or cycle along the trails.

As the day draws to a close, the show continues with one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region. Whether viewed from the Port of Le Bic, Ha! Ha! Bay, or a mountaintop in the park, the light transforms the landscape and invites you to take the time to fully enjoy it.

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Bistro de la Forge – Saturday Night

After a day at Bic National Park, head into downtown Rimouski to enjoy its lively evening atmosphere. Bistro de la Forge is a welcoming spot where you can gather for a simple, delicious meal.

The menu features hearty dishes with well-executed classics, such as burgers, grilled meats, pulled pork sandwiches, and fish and chips. All are paired with a fine selection of beers and privately imported wines.

With its warm decor and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to extend your evening and share a good time before continuing your getaway in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region.

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Extend Your Stay

Pointe-au-Père Maritime Heritage Site – All Day Sunday

To continue your stay in Rimouski, head to the Pointe-au-Père Maritime Heritage Site, located just a few minutes from downtown. This renowned Quebec site offers a complete immersion in the maritime history of the St. Lawrence River through three complementary experiences that can easily be explored in a single day

Start with the Empress of Ireland Museum, which traces the history of this famous ship and its sinking in 1914, one of Canada’s greatest maritime tragedies. The tragedy claimed 1,012 lives, leaving a deep mark on the country’s history. Through artifacts, testimonies, and an immersive experience, the exhibition offers a deeper understanding of life aboard and the key events of that tragic night.

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Onondaga submarine

Continue with a tour of the Onondaga submarine, fully accessible to the public. This 90-meter behemoth, the first submarine open to the public in Canada, patrolled the North Atlantic from 1967 to 2000.

The tour offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the 70 crew members who lived and worked aboard in a confined space. The audio-guided tour takes you through the submariners’ living quarters and work areas, while the outdoor facilities offer a new perspective on the submarine.

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Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse

Round out your visit by climbing the Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse. From the top of its 128 steps, the view of the St. Lawrence River is breathtaking. Standing 33 meters tall, it is recognized as the second-tallest lighthouse in Canada. The exhibition in the keeper’s house also offers insight into the vital role of lighthouse keepers and river pilots in the history of navigation.

With historical discoveries, immersive experiences, and moments by the river, this site offers a rich cultural outing accessible to all.

Rimouski and its surroundings offer the perfect balance of exploration, nature, and moments to savor. Whether along the river, exploring its maritime attractions, or enjoying its lively downtown, every moment invites you to slow down and appreciate the region in a new light.

A complete destination where you take the time to fully enjoy your stay in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region.

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