A Peaceful Summer Getaway in Charlevoix
- adriana hamelin
- Sep 13, 2025
- 2 min read
Charlevoix is one of those places where the journey is as beautiful as the destination. The drive itself is unique, with landscapes shaped millions of years ago by a meteorite impact. You immediately feel that this is a place for slowing down—where relaxing, connecting with nature, and enjoying quiet hikes are at the heart of the experience.
We stayed in Les Éboulements, which turned out to be the perfect base to explore the region. Everything felt close by, yet peaceful and away from the crowds.
Baie-Saint-Paul (10 minutes away)
This little town is often called the cultural heart of Charlevoix, with its art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. From Les Éboulements, it was just a short drive away.
We made a stop at Fromagerie Migneron and picked up their sheep’s cheese—less lactose, full of flavor, and absolutely delicious.
Hôtel Le Germain Charlevoix
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, this hotel is an experience in itself. We had previously stayed there for a conference, but even if you’re not spending the night, it’s worth visiting the grounds. Out back, there’s a small farm with cows, alpacas, sheep, rabbits, and ducks. A simple yet fun activity for both children and adults.
Île aux Coudres (10 minutes away)
Taking the ferry to Île aux Coudres feels like a mini adventure. The crossing takes about 20 minutes, the ferry is free, and in summer it runs every 30 minutes to an hour. Just be aware that it can get busy mid-season, so arriving a little earlier helps.
The island is quiet and best enjoyed if you’re into biking, hiking, or camping. We stopped at a boulangerie for friends (gluten-free or dairy-free options are scarce here), drove around the island, picked up some groceries, and headed back to our cottage.
La Malbaie (30 minutes away)
We made the trip to La Malbaie for lunch at a small, cozy restaurant. The food came in small plates, which we enjoyed, though the “high ratings” here don’t quite match big-city dining standards—something to keep in mind. Afterward, we strolled along the waterfront, which was lovely and relaxing.
Alpacas de Charlevoix (10 minutes away)
This was one of the highlights of the trip! For $10 per person, we spent about an hour feeding and petting alpacas. Even our friends' 1.5-year-old had a blast pulling grass to offer them. Their wool was unbelievably soft, and we couldn’t resist buying some alpaca socks at the shop afterward. A simple, fun outing that works for all ages.
On the Way: Montmorency Falls
Driving to and from Charlevoix, we always pass by Montmorency Falls. This time, we thought we’d stop, but the grey skies kept us in the car. On a clear day, though, it’s always worth a visit—taller than Niagara Falls and spectacular in any season.
Final Thoughts
Charlevoix in summer is all about embracing the slower pace: hiking, quiet drives, small local activities, and soaking up nature. If you love art, cheese, animals, and peaceful landscapes, this region will charm you instantly.
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