Explore Montreal, Quebec & the St Lawrence

11 Sept

Montreal • Quebec City • Gaspesie National Park • Charlevoix Region

14 Day Self Drive holiday. Travel the scenic roads along the mighty St Lawrence River on this self-drive adventure.

Following the mighty St Lawrence River, this 14-day self-drive journey reveals a side of Québec where centuries of history, charming riverside towns and spectacular natural landscapes come together at a pace that invites exploration. From the cobbled streets and European character of Québec City to the rugged beauty of the Gaspé Peninsula, this journey showcases some of French Canada's most fascinating regions. Along the way, discover historic settlements, dramatic coastal scenery, colourful fishing villages and national parks rich with wildlife, all while travelling at your own pace.

The adventure culminates in one of the best wildlife-viewing regions in North America, where whale watching cruises offer the chance to spot humpback, fin and even blue whales in the nutrient-rich waters of the St Lawrence. Combined with scenic drives, charming communities and authentic local experiences, this self-drive itinerary offers a wonderful blend of culture, nature and freedom.

Itinerary

Collect your rental car and begin your self-drive adventure through Québec. Follow the scenic route along the St Lawrence River, passing rolling farmland and historic communities including Trois-Rivières, one of the province's oldest European settlements.
Spend the day exploring the charm and history of Québec City. Choose from a guided city sightseeing tour, a countryside excursion featuring Montmorency Falls and Île d'Orléans, or a food-focused walking tour showcasing the region's unique culinary heritage.
Excursion Options
- Québec City Sightseeing Tour - Discover historic landmarks including Château Frontenac, the Plains of Abraham, Place Royale, and the Citadel
- Countryside Tour - Visit Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Montmorency Falls, and the picturesque Île d'Orléans
- Foodie Walking Tour - Sample local specialties while learning about Québec City's culinary traditions and cultural influences
Travel along the scenic shores of the St Lawrence River towards Rivière-du-Loup. En route, explore charming riverside villages including Kamouraska and Notre-Dame-du-Portage, known for their distinctive architecture and maritime heritage.
Continue east through coastal Québec, passing the picturesque village of Cacouna and beautiful Bic National Park. Along the way, enjoy opportunities for walking, wildlife spotting, and discovering the maritime history of Rimouski, including its famous lighthouse and maritime museum.
Travel into the heart of Gaspésie National Park, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Chic-Choc and McGerrigle mountain ranges. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, caribou, and more than 150 bird species.
Enjoy the next two days at your leisure.
Travel towards Percé, stopping to explore Forillon National Park. Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and keep watch for local wildlife, including seabirds, seals, whales, porcupines, and black bears.
Discover one of Québec's most iconic coastal destinations. Cruise around the famous Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island, taking in spectacular cliffs, abundant birdlife, and sweeping views across the Gulf of St Lawrence. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the town's cafés, galleries, and waterfront.
Follow the scenic Baie des Chaleurs through picturesque fishing villages and coastal landscapes. En route, you may wish to visit local craft shops, the Acadian Museum, or the UNESCO-listed Miguasha National Park, renowned for its significant fossil discoveries.
Travel through eastern Québec, stopping in Rimouski before crossing the St Lawrence River by ferry. Continue through the beautiful Charlevoix region, known for its rolling hills, riverside scenery, artisan communities, and natural beauty, before arriving in Tadoussac.
Today, enjoy a three-hour whale watching cruise in one of Canada's premier marine wildlife regions. Keep an eye out for humpback, fin, minke, and even blue whales as you explore the rich waters of the St Lawrence Estuary.
Cross the river by ferry and continue to La Malbaie, a charming town in the heart of the Charlevoix region. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Charlevoix region on your return to Montreal. Along the way, you may wish to visit the artistic town of Baie-Saint-Paul, the famous Shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, or the impressive Montmorency Falls before your journey comes to an end.

Inclusions

13 nights’ accommodation
3 breakfasts and 3 dinners
14-day full-size vehicle rental with unlimited kilometres (based on 24-hour periods)
Loss damage waiver with zero excess
Your choice of shared sightseeing in Quebec City
Shared activities and tours as per the itinerary
Goods & Services Tax (GST)

Excludes - Ferry from Trois-Pistoles to Les Escoumins on Day 1, National Park fees, GPS (paid locally), & Road tolls

Note Accommodations outside the major tourist centres in Canada are best available.

Departs Daily, May to September

From $4,785 per person share twin, based on travel dates 25 May to 14 June 2027

Note Pricing varies due to fluctuations in exchange rates; please contact your Travel Expert for current pricing or other changes. Surcharges may apply during events, festivals, public/religious holidays, or other high-demand dates.

Terms & Conditions Pricing is provided as a guide only and is subject to availability at the time of booking. Self-drive Journey This itinerary includes car rental, accommodation and some sightseeing activities, but may be tailor-made, with the number of days, places visited, and activities varied to suit you. Please enquire about pricing for children (10 and under), triple or quad share, and/or cross-season. Please also enquire about adding pre/post stays in Montreal, and pricing for alternative rental vehicle categories. Surcharges apply to all vehicle rental pickups from 11 June to 31 August 2026 inclusive. Surcharges apply to all vehicle rental pickups from 26 June to 31 August 2027 inclusive. Quotations are subject to change until confirmed and paid in full due to factors such as currency fluctuations, supplier charges and availability. Accommodation, transport, itineraries and inclusions may be amended where necessary by the operator. Valid passports, visas (where required) and comprehensive travel insurance are the responsibility of the traveller. International and domestic airfares, personal expenses and items not specifically listed as included may incur additional costs. Travel agent service fees and credit card fees may apply. For full terms & conditions, please contact your Wanderlust Travel Experts for details.

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Karen McMahon