Ultimate Gaspé Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary in Québec
A Gaspé Peninsula road trip is one of the best adventures in Québec. Following Route 132 around the peninsula takes you through coastal cliffs, mountain landscapes, fishing villages, and national parks, for one of the most scenic drives in Eastern Canada.
You can complete the loop in as little as 5 days, but 10 to 12 days gives you enough time to properly experience the region. Along the way, you’ll hike in the Chic-Chocs, spot whales from the coastline, explore Percé Rock, and camp beside the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
After spending a few summers (and winters) exploring the Gaspé Peninsula, I came up with the perfect Gaspésie road trip itinerary that follows Route 132 clockwise from Matane, highlighting the best stops, hikes, camping spots, restaurants, and attractions around the peninsula.
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Gaspé Peninsula Road Trip Overview
Recommended Duration
- Minimum: 5 days
- Ideal: 12 days
- Extended adventure: 2 weeks
Best Time for a Gaspésie Road Trip
- June to September for hiking and camping
- July and August for the warmest weather
- September for fall colours in Parc national de la Gaspésie
- Late May to October for whale watching
Total Distance
Following Route 132 around the peninsula covers approximately 900 to 1,000 kilometres, depending on the detours, hikes, and attractions you choose to include.
Recommended Direction
I recommend driving the Gaspé Peninsula clockwise, starting in Matane. This direction follows a natural progression from the St. Lawrence coastline to the Chic-Choc Mountains, Forillon National Park, Percé, and the Chaleur Bay region. It is also the route most travellers follow when completing the Gaspé Peninsula loop.
Driving the Loop
This itinerary follows Route 132 clockwise:
- Matane
- Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
- Parc national de la Gaspésie
- Cap-des-Rosiers
- Forillon National Park
- Gaspé
- Percé
- Bonaventure
- Carleton-sur-Mer
- Matapédia Valley
Gaspésie Road Trip Map
Day 1: Matane
Matane is often the gateway to the Gaspé Peninsula and the perfect first stop on your road trip. Located along the St. Lawrence River, this coastal town is known for salmon fishing, seafood, and nearby outdoor adventures.
Top Things to Do in Matane
Visit the Matane Lighthouse
The Matane Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the region and offers beautiful sunset views over the water.
Explore the Riverfront
Walk or bike along the riverfront promenade and stop at local cafés and seafood restaurants. Learn a bit of the town’s history on the Promenade des Capitaines.
Visit Jardins de Doris
These unique gardens feature hundreds of dahlia varieties and make a great quick stop during summer.
Go Salmon Watching
Depending on the season, you can watch Atlantic salmon navigate the Matane River fish ladder.
My Top Picks:
- Fresh shrimp and seafood
- Sunset along the St. Lawrence
- La Promenade des Capitaines
Where to Stay in matane
- Riôtel Matane
- Auberge Bruine Océane
- Camping de la rivière Matane
Where to Eat in Matane
- La Fabrique (local microbrewery)
- Cargo
- La Belle Matane
Day 2: Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
Sainte-Anne-des-Monts is the gateway to the Chic-Chocs and one of the best outdoor hubs in Gaspésie.
Stops on the way
Visit Cap Chat
Stop at the Cap-Chat wind farm and the famous giant wind turbine. It is the tallest in the world. Eole Project is a wind power interpretive centre with guided tours and beautiful viewpoints.
Drive the Coastline
The coastal drive between Matane and Sainte-Anne-des-Monts is filled with viewpoints, beaches, and scenic roadside stops.
Top Things to Do in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
Visit Exploramer
This marine museum and aquarium focuses on the St. Lawrence marine ecosystem and is great for families. You can watch little crabs crawl on the ocean floor at low tide from the docks.
Cartier Beach
Perfect place for a family fun afternoon on a sunny day.
Le Gaspésien Golf Club
A lovely 18-hole golf course with views of the Chic-Choc Mountains.
Petit-Bois Park Trail
Well-maintained trail in a forested park with stunning landscapes. The trail is 3.5 kilometres and rated easy. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
My Top Picks:
- The scenic coastal drive (Avenue 1)
- Wind turbines at Cap-Chat
- Exploramer
Where to Stay in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
- Auberge Festive Sea Shack
- Auberge Seigneurie des Monts
- Camping Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
Where to Eat in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
- Microbrasserie Le Malbord
- Restaurant Chez Poisson
- Cantine Cartier (chip stand style)
Day 2-5: Parc national de la Gaspésie
Parc national de la Gaspésie is one of the highlights of any Gaspé Peninsula road trip. The park is home to the Chic-Choc Mountains, alpine tundra, moose, and caribou. This place is my very favourite on this road trip. If you enjoy nature, hiking and wildlife, don’t skip this park.
This is where you’ll find some of the best hiking in Québec.
Top Things to Do in Parc national de la Gaspésie
Hike Mont Albert
Mont Albert Loop is one of the park’s most famous hikes with sweeping mountain views and a unique alpine plateau. It is a challenging 17-kilometre trail. It will take you all day to hike this trail, but if you are up for it, the views on the summit are stunning.
Hike Mont Jacques-Cartier
This iconic hike leads to Québec’s second-highest peak and offers the chance to spot Gaspésie caribou. The Mont Jacques-Cartier trail to the summit and back is 8 kilometres, with a steep, constant climb. The trail is rated difficult but offers magnificent views.
Explore Family-Friendly Trails
The park also has several easier hiking trails perfect for families and beginner hikers. My favourites are the Lac aux Américains and Mont Ernest-Laforce Trail. Both offer amazing scenery of the surrounding mountains in the park.
Wildlife Watching
Moose sightings are common, especially early in the morning and near Lac Cascapédia.
My Top Picks:
- Lac aux Américains
- The Mont Albert loop
- Dinner and drinks at the Gite du Mont-Albert
Where to Camp in Gaspésie National Park
- Camping du Lac-Cascapédia
- Camping Mont-Albert (with ready-to-camp available)
- Camping de la Rivière
Where to Stay in Gaspésie National Park
Where to Eat in Gaspésie National Park
- Restaurant at Gîte du Mont-Albert
- Local cafés in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts before entering the park
Day 5-8: Forillon National Park
Forillon National Park combines rugged cliffs, coastlines, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. It’s one of the top destinations on the peninsula. It has the famous End of the World spot.
Stops along the way
Mont Saint-Pierre
Hike or take the shuttle to the summit of Mont Saint-Pierre for a stunning view of the coastal town and the surroundings.
Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse
This is the tallest lighthouse in Canada and one of the most iconic landmarks in Gaspésie.
Explore the Coastal Cliffs
The drive through this section of Route 132 is stunning. Every turn brings a new scene where the road winds between the ocean and the mountains. The small communities along the way are charming and seem set in a different time.
Top Things to Do in Forillon National Park
Hike to Cap Gaspé
This iconic trail leads to the “End of the World” lighthouse and some of the park’s best coastal scenery. On a sunny day (there are also many foggy days on the peninsula), the views are stunning. The hike is an easy 8-kilometre out-and-back wide trail.
Kayak the Coastline
Sea kayaking is a popular way to explore the cliffs and coves.
Relax at Petit-Gaspé Beach
This beach is perfect for relaxing after a long hike.
Cap Bon-Ami
From the cliffs of Cap Bon-Ami or along its pebble beach, you may spot seals bobbing in the water just offshore. Look up to the cliffs and skies above, where several seabird species can often be seen soaring and nesting nearby.
Hike Mont Alban
Hike the out-and-back 4-kilometre trail to the top of the tower on the summit of Mont Saint-Alban or the full 8-kilometre loop. On a clear day, you can see Percé Rock and Cap-des-Rosiers. The sea stretches for miles towards Newfoundland.
Hike the La Chute Trail
An easy, short trail that leads you to a stunning waterfall. Well worth the stop and perfect for stretching your legs. The trailhead is off Route 132.
Visit the Heritage Site L’Anse Blanchette
Visit the Blanchette House to discover traditional fishing life and local heritage. Then, stay for a folklore show in the historic barn.
My Top Picks
- Cap Gaspé Lighthouse
- Cap Bon Ami
- Parks Canada red chairs on the Mont-Saint-Alban Trail
- Whale and seal watching from the high cliffs of the park
Where to Camp in Forillon National Park
- Petit-Gaspé Campground
- Des-Rosiers Campground
Day 8: Gaspé
Gaspé is the largest town in eastern Gaspésie and a great base for exploring the area.
Top Things to Do in Gaspé
Visit Christ the King Cathedral
This unique cathedral features modern architecture and stained glass inspired by the sea.
Explore Gaspésie Museum
Learn about the region’s maritime and fishing history. A fun place for families or something to do on a rainy day.
Enjoy the Waterfront
The harbour area is perfect for an evening walk.
My Top Picks
- Promenade Jacques-Cartier
- O’Dwyer Distillery
- Haldimand Beach
Where to Stay in Gaspé
- Hôtel Baker
- Hotel Plante
- Camping Gaspé
Where to Eat in Gaspé
- Brise Bise
- TÉTÛ Taverne Gaspésienne
- Le Seaflower
Day 8-9: Percé
Percé is one of the most iconic destinations in Québec. Known for Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island, this is a must-stop on any Gaspésie road trip.
Top Things to Do in Percé
See Percé Rock
This massive rock formation is the symbol of Gaspésie.
Visit Bonaventure Island
Take a boat tour to Île Bonaventure to see one of the world’s largest northern gannet colonies.
Hike Mont Sainte-Anne
This trail offers panoramic views over Percé Rock and the coastline.
Explore the Village
Percé has shops, cafés, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints throughout town.
Where to Stay in Percé
- Hôtel-Motel Rocher Percé
- Riotel Percé
- Camping Côte Surprise
Where to Eat in Percé
- La Maison du Pêcheur
- Pit Caribou
- Paqbo
Day 10: Bonaventure
Bonaventure is known for crystal-clear rivers, beaches, and relaxed coastal vibes.
Top Things to Do in Bonaventure
Kayak the Bonaventure River
This river is famous for its incredibly clear water.
Relax on the Beach
The beaches here are some of the best in Gaspésie.
Visit the Acadian Museum
Learn more about Acadian history and culture in the region.
Visit the Bioparc
Get up close to more than 40 animal species native to the Gaspésie region in habitats designed to reflect their natural environment. Walk the interpretive trail to learn about the wildlife through engaging activities and watch feeding sessions.
Where to Stay in Bonaventure
- Motel Grand-Pré
- The Simeon
- Camping Bonaventure
- Camping Plage Beaubassin
Where to Eat in Bonaventure
- Café Acadien
- La Belle Aventure Microbrewery
- 1760 Bar and Grill
Day 11: Carleton-sur-Mer
Carleton-sur-Mer combines mountains, beaches, and outdoor adventures and is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Gaspésie.
Top Things to Do in Carleton-sur-Mer
Hike Mont Saint-Joseph
This hike rewards you with panoramic views over Chaleur Bay. The park also offers unique ready-to-camp and glamping stays at the summit.
Relax at the Beach
Carleton has beautiful sandy beaches perfect for relaxing after hiking.
Visit Local Microbreweries
Le Naufrager is the local microbrewery where the craft beer scene is excellent.
My Top Picks
- Sunset over Chaleur Bay
- Mont Saint-Joseph views
Where to Stay in Carleton-sur-Mer
- Manoir Belle Plage
- Hotel Aquamer
- Camping Carleton-sur-Mer
Where to Eat in Carleton-sur-Mer
- Le Naufrageur
- Cap à la Mer Restaurant
- Marin d’eau douce
Day 12: Matapédia Valley
The Matapédia Valley is the perfect final stop on your Gaspé Peninsula road trip before completing the Route 132 loop. This peaceful region is known for its rolling hills, salmon rivers, covered bridges, and scenic countryside.
Compared to the dramatic coastlines of Percé and Forillon, the Matapédia Valley offers a quieter side of Gaspésie with charming villages, outdoor adventures, and beautiful river landscapes.
Top Things to Do in the Matapédia Valley
Drive Route 132 Through the Valley
The drive between Carleton-sur-Mer and Matapédia is filled with river views, forests, and small villages that feel very different from the coastal sections of the peninsula.
Visit the Covered Bridges
The Matapédia Valley is home to several historic covered bridges that make excellent photo stops during your road trip, such as the Routierville and L’Anse de St-Jean covered bridges. Some bridges are well over a hundred years old.
Cœur des Plateaux and Deux-Rivières Lookouts
These two unique structures along the route des belvédères give visitors panoramic views of the valley of rivers and mountains.
Explore the Matapédia and Restigouche Rivers
These rivers are famous for Atlantic salmon fishing and scenic viewpoints. Even if you do not fish, the riverbanks are beautiful places to stop for a picnic or a short walk. Route 132 follows the winding river for a good stretch with scenic rest areas along the way.
Hike in the Valley
There are several smaller regional trails and viewpoints throughout the valley that are less crowded than the more famous hikes in Gaspésie. The valley also has its share of falls, like the Philomène Falls and Picot Falls, both of which you can view after a short hike.
Stop in Mont-Joli
The city has a circuit of murals called the Whispers of the Wind throughout the town, showcasing the work of local talents.
Optional Detour
If you have extra time before leaving the region, consider driving part of Route 299 through the interior of Gaspésie again for a completely different perspective of the mountains and forests.
Or you could choose to head west on Route 132 to Rimouski. Located just west of Rimouski, Bic National Park makes an excellent stop before or after your Gaspé Peninsula road trip. Known for its coastal scenery, tidal bays, sea cliffs, and abundant wildlife, the park offers some of the most beautiful hiking trails along the St. Lawrence River. If you have an extra day, Bic National Park is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Tips for Planning a Gaspésie Road Trip
Fuel Up Often
Gas stations can be farther apart in some sections of the peninsula.
Reserve Camping Early
Summer campgrounds and national park sites book quickly.
Prepare for Weather Changes
Conditions can shift quickly near the coast and in the mountains.
Watch for Wildlife
Moose are common, especially early in the morning and late in the evening.
FAQ
How many days do you need for a Gaspé Peninsula road trip?
A minimum of 5 days is possible, but 10 days is ideal for hiking, camping, and sightseeing.
Is the Gaspé Peninsula worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Gaspé Peninsula offers some of the best coastal scenery, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in Québec. The drive alone will leave you speechless.
What is the best time to visit Gaspésie?
June through September is ideal for hiking and camping, while September offers beautiful fall colours.
Can you camp around the Gaspé Peninsula?
Yes. There are excellent campgrounds throughout Gaspésie, including national parks, private campgrounds, and seaside camping areas.
