7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Quebec City

As a digital nomad living in Quebec City, you're perfectly positioned to explore the charming and diverse landscapes of Quebec province. While the city itself is steeped in history and culture, the surrounding areas offer a plethora of weekend getaway options, from popular tourist spots to hidden gems. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a quiet place to relax, these seven destinations provide a delightful escape from your routine.

Charlevoix

Just a short drive from Quebec City, Charlevoix is a picturesque region known for its stunning landscapes and artistic flair. It's a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, offering outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and skiing at Le Massif. The region is also famous for its farm-to-table cuisine, with plenty of local products to savor.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Charlevoix is by car, which takes about 1.5 hours from Quebec City. Alternatively, you can take a scenic train ride with the Train de Charlevoix.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the quaint village of Baie-Saint-Paul, known for its art galleries and the birthplace of the internationally renowned Cirque du Soleil.

Where to Stay: Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. For a more intimate experience, Auberge des 3 Canards is a charming inn with a rich history.

Where to Eat: Le Mouton Noir is a delightful restaurant in Baie-Saint-Paul, offering a terrace with river views and a menu featuring local ingredients.

Île d'Orléans

Just a short drive from Quebec City, the enchanting Île d'Orléans is a haven for foodies and history buffs. This small island in the Saint Lawrence River is dotted with farms, vineyards, and historic homes. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, picking fresh berries, and exploring the island's heritage.

How to Get There: Île d'Orléans is accessible by car via a bridge, taking about 15 minutes from Quebec City.

Travel Tip: Make sure to stop by the local chocolaterie for some exquisite handmade chocolates and the Cidrerie Verger Bilodeau for their renowned ice cider.

Where to Stay: Auberge La Goéliche offers cozy accommodations with stunning views of the river, and some rooms feature private balconies.

Where to Eat: La Boulange is a charming bakery and café on the island, perfect for a light lunch or a sweet treat, with their fresh pastries being a must-try.

Montmorency Falls

The breathtaking Montmorency Falls, located just outside Quebec City, are a natural wonder not to be missed. Standing taller than Niagara Falls, these falls offer a spectacular sight, especially when frozen in winter. Visitors can hike around the park, take a cable car to the top, or even zip line across the falls for the more adventurous.

How to Get There: Montmorency Falls is a quick 15-minute drive from Quebec City, or you can take a local bus that goes directly to the park.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, visit the falls at night when they are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.

Where to Stay: Auberge du Littoral offers comfortable accommodations nearby, with a spa for relaxing after a day of exploration.

Where to Eat: The Manoir Montmorency offers a fine dining experience with a view of the falls. Their Sunday brunch is particularly popular.

Baie-Saint-Paul

Nestled in the heart of Charlevoix, Baie-Saint-Paul is a cultural gem known for its art galleries, boutiques, and charming streets. It's a perfect spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the local art scene or enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking on the Gouffre River.

How to Get There: Baie-Saint-Paul is about a 1-hour drive from Quebec City. You can also take the Train de Charlevoix for a scenic journey along the river.

Travel Tip: Visit during one of the town's many festivals, such as Rêves d'automne, a festival celebrating painting and the beauty of the fall landscape.

Where to Stay: Hôtel & Spa Le Germain Charlevoix offers a modern and stylish stay with farm-to-table dining and a relaxing spa.

Where to Eat: Le Diapason is a cozy bistro with a seasonal menu that highlights local produce and a selection of fine wines.

Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré

The small town of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is renowned for its stunning basilica, a site of pilgrimage and architectural beauty. Beyond the basilica, visitors can explore the Cyclorama of Jerusalem, one of the world's largest panoramic paintings, or enjoy outdoor activities along the Saint Lawrence River.

How to Get There: Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is about a 30-minute drive from Quebec City. Public transportation options are also available.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in the winter, don't miss the nearby Canyon Sainte-Anne, which offers a spectacular view of frozen waterfalls and ice-climbing opportunities.

Where to Stay: Auberge de la Basilique is conveniently located near the basilica and offers simple, comfortable rooms.

Where to Eat: Le Marie Beaupré is a local restaurant that serves hearty meals, perfect for refueling after a day of sightseeing.

La Malbaie

For a taste of the high life, La Malbaie in Charlevoix is the place to be. Known for its rich history as a resort destination for the elite, La Malbaie offers beautiful landscapes, the famous Casino de Charlevoix, and opportunities for whale watching in the St. Lawrence River.

How to Get There: La Malbaie is approximately a 2-hour drive from Quebec City. The Train de Charlevoix also stops here, offering a scenic route along the river.

Travel Tip: Visit the historic Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu, even if you're not staying there, to enjoy its beautiful grounds and maybe try your luck at the casino.

Where to Stay: The Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu is not only a luxurious place to stay but also offers a golf course, spa, and several dining options.

Where to Eat: Chez Truchon Bistro Auberge is a cozy spot with a menu that blends traditional French cuisine with local flavors.

Saguenay Fjord

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Saguenay Fjord is a natural wonder that's less frequented by tourists. The fjord offers breathtaking scenery, with opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and observing diverse wildlife. The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is also a prime spot for beluga whale watching.

How to Get There: The Saguenay Fjord is about a 2.5-hour drive from Quebec City. There are also bus services that connect the city to the region.

Travel Tip: Take a boat tour of the fjord for a chance to see the majestic landscape from the water and learn about the area's unique ecosystem.

Where to Stay: Pourvoirie du Cap au Leste offers rustic yet comfortable cabins with stunning views of the fjord, and it's an ideal spot for a tranquil retreat.

Where to Eat: Café du Presbytère in the village of L'Anse-Saint-Jean is a quaint spot for a light meal or coffee, with a lovely terrace overlooking the fjord.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience for digital nomads looking to explore the beauty and culture of Quebec. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local life, these weekend getaways from Quebec City are sure to enrich your nomadic lifestyle.