Feel the seaside effect
Experience the relaxing sound of the waves lapping at the shore and enjoy our wide open spaces so you can switch off and reconnect with nature.
If you love sea kayaking, you're in luck – several coastal municipalities have the necessary infrastructure so you can enjoy your passion.
Make the most of our relaxing trails along the banks of the St. Lawrence and take in the salty air… Whether you simply want to watch the sunset or want to celebrate around a beach fire, make some me time in La Matanie!
Public access to the beach
There are several public access to the beach that are perfect for picnics with friends, family or as a couple. It's also the perfect opportunity to start (or expand) your collection of sea-polished pebbles, shells and colored glass.
To facilitate access to the beach while respecting private property owners, we developed a signage system throughout our territory, in collaboration with the Ministère des transports du Québec, to indicate all authorized parking areas as well as safe passage on public land to lead you to the beach. Look for the white and blue signs on your next trip or consult our Google map right here to plan your getaway on the Matanie coastline.
Follow new trails
The International Appalachian Trail (IAT-QC GR®A1)
Over one hundred kilometres of the International Appalachian Trail cross the Matane Wildlife Reserve, across deep valleys, lakes, rivers and streams. It's home to breathtakingly wild landscape. There's something for everyone, whatever the challenge you're looking for, including easy and accessible hikes that take less than a day. If you're up for more a challenge, you can set out on a long hike along the IAT's 650 kilometres on the Gaspé Peninsula. There are shelters for accommodation, or camping on the Matane Wildlife Reserve.
Learn more about the International Appalachian Trail
The Igloo Trails, for mountain bikers
Technical as well as fun, the trails of the Club de vélo éolien de Matane offer plenty for mountain bike lovers that wish to enjoy pure unfiltered fun and live in the moment. Wood trails, covering an area of 45 kilometres, suited for all difficulty levels, easily accessible and located close to downtown, will provide you with loads of thrills.
Learn more about the Igloo Trails
The trails of the Grotte des fées
Accessible by a forest road about 11 kilometers from the village of Saint-Léandre, the trails of the Grotte des Fées offer a hiking loop of about 8 km with a 215 m elevation gain, perfect for families and hikers. Generally considered an easy hike, it takes an average of 2 hours to complete the loop. The ideal time to visit the trails is from June 15 to October 15, to avoid the hunting season.
Explore our waterways
The St. Lawrence River with Destination Haute-Mer
Embark on the Destination Haute-Mer adventure with the captains and fishing guides Guillaume and Christophe. Whether it is to fish for mackerel, cod, striped bass or other types of groundfish, or to observe the marine mammals inhabiting our superb region, these experienced guides will make you live unforgettable moments. Their boat is designed expressly for navigation at sea, is very spacious, stable and, above all, very safe.
Learn more about Destination Haute-Mer
Discover the Matane Salmon River at the Parc des Îles
There are a multitude of outdoor activities on offer at the Parc des Îles, which is located at the heart of the Matane River in the town centre. You'll see lots of people running, walking and cycling around the park using the 1-kilometre-long looped cycle track. If visiting with your family, take advantage of the different play and picnic areas. You can also rent pedalos, kayaks, paddle boards and bikes. There's a mini-golf course and a water playground. There's even a supervised beach area where you can swim. Parc des Îles is one of the best places in town to spend a summers day.
Learn more about the Parc des Îles
Numerous lakes in the Matane Wildlife Reserve
With an exceptional density of nearly 4,000 moose in its 1,275 km2, Réserve faunique de Matane (SÉPAQ) is renowned for its hunting activities, but it is also a prime location for outdoor activities such as hiking and walking. From June to September, l'Étang-à-la-Truite, which extends over a length of 2 km, is the ideal place to practice hiking on the water in a kayak or a paddle board, both of which are available for rent. You will be seduced by the mist on the surface of the water, the frequent presence of moose or the reflection of the sun on the water which will give the scenery a breathtaking light. Do you have your own equipment? The majestic Lake Matane is also accessible.
Learn more about the Matane Wildlife Reserve