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Suggested itineraries

Nature's Secrets

  • Itinerary
  • Summer
  • Spring
  • Fall
  • Solo
  • In a group
  • duo
  • with family
  • science and nature
Tourist regions

Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Gaspésie, Mauricie, Centre-du-Québec, Eastern Townships, Montérégie, Laval, Montréal, city and region

Journey

3 300 km

Discover details
Number of institutions

18 Museums

Time of year

En tout temps

About the Itinerary 

Quebec's breathtaking and varied nature is best discovered outdoors: on a hiking trail, in a city park, along a riverbank, or in the heart of a protected area. But to appreciate it even more—in summer or winter, alone, with family or friends—why not complement these experiences with cultural outings? 

This itinerary invites you take the road to visit museums and interpretation centres where you can observe, understand and better appreciate nature. In highlighting  Quebec's biodiversity, ecosystems and natural resources, these places make outdoor experiences even more rewarding.

The Circuit

Day 1

Forests and Minerals

La Sarre and Malartic

Centre d'interprétation de la foresterie

Delve into the region's history by way of its forestry industry, geography and archaeology. Discover historic tools and scale models depicting local life. In summer, the centre also serves as a tourist information office: an ideal stop to make the most of your discoveries!  

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Musée minéralogique de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue

In the heart of the Vallée-de-l'Or, explore the region's geological riches and minerals from around the world, including fluorescent minerals and rare earth elements that are crucial components of modern technology. Discover exhibitions on geology and local mining projects, try out the earthquake simulator and, from June to September, visit the Canadian Malartic Mine, one of the largest open-pit gold mines in the country.

infoA handy tip

Visits to the Canadian Malartic Mine are by reservation only. This is a unique opportunity to discover an active gold mine and gain a better understanding of the everyday lives of miners and the mining industry.

Reserve
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Day 2

Wildlife and Wide-open Spaces

Saint-Félicien

Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien

At the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien, visitors come through the grounds seated in a small train and it's the animals that approach to observe them. Many other encounters make this place a must-see destination in the Lac-Saint-Jean region. To make the most of your  stay,  explore the walking trails and take part in activities led by naturalists, who will reveal the secrets of boreal wildlife, from the Siberian tiger to the red panda, not to mention the wolverine. Don't be shy, ask questions!

infoAn interesting fact

All of the Zoo's profits are reinvested in research and species conservation. This means that your visit has a positive impact on species protection!

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Day 3

Living Memory on the Riverfront

Causapscal

Site patrimonial de pêche Matamajaw

Step into the history of salmon fishing in Causapscal! The Fishing Pleasures exhibition takes you on a journey through heritage buildings and the era of private fishing clubs accompanied by an immersive audio tour. Guided by Lulu the dragonfly, younger visitors can enjoy a fun and interactive experience that's both entertaining and educational. A memorable outing for the whole family.

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Day 4

Gardens and Biodiversity Havens

Sainte-Anne-des-Monts and Métis-sur-Mer

Bioparc de la Gaspésie

If Jean de La Fontaine (1621–1695) were still alive, the Bioparc might well have inspired him to write all kinds of fables! The trail makes allows visitors to get up close to some forty native animal species — wolves, coyotes, black bears, moose, lynx, otters, beavers and caribou — across five ecosystems typical of the region: the bay, the barachois, the river, the forest and the tundra. An immersive walk where careful observation rewards you with superb moments. 

infoA handy tip

It's a long way from here to your next destination. Why not stop here for the night? The Bioparc cottages, with direct access to the beach, offer breathtaking sea views and magnificent sunsets that can be admired from their terraces.

Reserve a cottage
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Reford Gardens

Thanks to Mrs. Reford's patience and green thumb, a forest of Gaspé spruce trees has gradually been transformed into a true horticultural work of art. Stop by the Reford Gardens to stroll along flower-lined paths, admire art installations, and learn how to preserve the beauty of the world.

local_seeA must see

Every summer, designers let their imaginations run wild in this beautiful natural setting. During the International Garden Festival, explore playful, surprising and enchanting installations that will keep you moving... or make you stop to take a closer look.

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Day 5

From Nature to... Energy!

Shawinigan

The Cité de l’Énergie

Learn about the delicate balance between nature, energy and human society in the Planet Energy exhibition. Interactive displays allow visitors to gain a better understanding of the energy and climate issues at the heart of current events. Don't miss the immersive show that completes the experience: striking, multi-sensory special effects will transport you to the centre of the Sun, the primary source of Earth's energy.

local_seeA must see

Climb to the top of the Hydro-Québec observation tower, the second tallest in Québec, for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Shawinigan and its surroundings.

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Day 6

Explore Life Forms

Bécancour

Centre de la Biodiversité du Québec

Take an in depth look at biodiversity and awaken your senses! Explore interactive exhibits, touch, smell, and observe flora and fauna in the Sensory Room. Weather permitting, you can walk along 4 kilometres of forest trails, spot animals and birds, or simply enjoy the orchard and picnic area. A fun and captivating visit for young and old alike. 

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Day 7

Under the Starry Night

Notre-Dame-des-Bois

ASTROLab

In the heart of the historic city centre, the Sherbrooke Nature and Science Museum invites you to explore the biodiversity and natural heritage of the Eastern Townships through exhibitions, workshops, and activities. From the fantastical forest of AlterAnima to the treasures of regional archaeology, each visit will fill you with wonder and fuel your passion for nature and science.

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Day 8

All About Ecosystems: Observe, Understand, Protect

Sherbrooke, Magog and Granby

MNS2 - Musée de la nature et des sciences de Sherbrooke

In the heart of the historic city centre, the Sherbrooke Nature and Science Museum invites you to explore the biodiversity and natural heritage of the Eastern Townships through exhibitions, workshops, and activities. From the fantastical forest of AlterAnima to the treasures of regional archaeology, each visit will fill you with wonder and fuel your passion for nature and science. 

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Marais de la Rivière-aux-Cerises

The Centre d’interprétation du Marais de la Rivière-aux-Cerises in Magog, biodiversity awaits to be experienced and discovered. Combine exhibitions, hiking trails, and guided kayak excursions to explore this protected environment and appreciate its richness and fragility. A true adventure playground for outdoor enthusiasts, the wetland is a place where people come to observe, learn, marvel... and get motivated to conserve it. 

infoA handy tip

The building that houses the Centre is a model of eco-friendly architecture that incorporates several green technologies. Why not conclude a discovery with a break on the green roof or terrace to recharge in a breathtaking natural setting.

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Centre d'interprétation de la nature du Lac Boivin

Centre d’interprétation de la nature du Lac Boivin

Another exceptional wetland can be explored in Granby: the Centre d’interprétation de la nature et des milieux humides (CINLB). Marshes, wet meadows, forests, and hemlock forests coexist to provide shelter and food for an impressive biodiversity—with the largest number of bird species accessible to the public in the Haute-Yamaska region! Along the trails, observation towers and footbridges invite visitors to pause and admire the diversity of wildlife. To get the most out of bird watching, binoculars are available for rent at the Centre's pavilion. 

infoInteresting fact

Wetlands help mitigate the effects of climate change, they capture carbon, regulate water, and prevent flooding, but remain vulnerable to human activities. Protecting them is essential!

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Day 9

Water and Wetlands

Sorel-Tracy and Laval

Bioparc de la Gaspésie

Head out for an adventure at the Biophare, in the heart of the “land between earth and water”!  Embark on a boat for a guided tour of the verdant Lac Saint-Pierre islands. This excursion offers a glimpse into the rich flora and fauna of the wetlands of the Lac Saint-Pierre World Biosphere Reserve, an ecological gem recognized by UNESCO. Inside the Biophare building, exhibitions invite you to explore the region's natural and human heritage.

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Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles Exploration Centre

Whatever the season, come explore the largest protected wildlife area in the metropolitan region: a river with a thousand islands! Hike the trails, picnic, rent a boat to explore this green oasis recognized as a wildlife refuge, and discover the river's history, fauna, and flora thanks to the displays in the exhibition area.

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Centre d'interprétation de l'eau

Perched on the banks of Mille-Îles river, C.I.EAU invites the entire family to explore the route of clean drinking water, from the river to the tap. In the permanent exhibition, follow the extraordinary journey of a drop of water, from its source to your glass. Games, interactive panels and quizzes allow everyone to have fun while discovering the importance of protecting and using this precious resource. 

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Day 10

Nature, Right Here in the City!

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue and Montréal

Ecomuseum Zoo

The Ecomuseum Zoo is the only outdoor zoo on the island of Montreal, entirely dedicated to Quebec wildlife. Learn all about biodiversity and discover the Zoo's residents, each of whom has a unique story that prevents them from being from returning to the wild. Explore their habitats, which recreate their natural environment, and observe mammals, birds, reptiles and other local species up close. Take the time to seek them out and admire them.Special encounters with local wildlife that are sure to delight you.

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Jardin botanique | Espace pour la vie

Explore its beauty through some 30 thematic gardens and 10 exhibition greenhouses. This oasis in the city is the ideal place to reconnect with nature in all its beauty and fragility. 

infoInteresting fact

As a garden ages, it becomes more beautiful... Founded in 1931 by an exceptional scientist, Brother Marie-Victorin, the Botanical Garden is constantly being renewed. There is always something to discover, season after season, bloom after bloom!

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Day 11

Learn About the Planet and Take Action to Defend it

Montréal

Biosphère - Espace pour la vie

Located in the heart of Jean-Drapeau park, the Biosphere invites you to explore the overlaps between the environment and society. Exhibitions, installations, and interactive activities will help you to better understand environmental issues and take action in your daily life. Accept its invitation: become an eco-citizen who can begin to make a real difference right now! 

infoInteresting fact

With its distinctive see-through geodesic dome, the Biosphere, located just steps from the river and the metro, is an architectural masterpiece that served as the United States Pavilion during Expo 67.

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