Ecotourism is a type of sustainable tourism, where a region’s natural and cultural heritage are preserved while being showcased to the public.

The Charlevoix region, designated a World Biosphere Reserve, is the ideal location to practice sustainable tourism. Each of its parks or natural sites boasts some exceptional characteristic. At the confluence of the Saguenay and St. Lawrence rivers is located the first marine park in Quebec, founded to protect, preserve and enhance this marine conservation area.

Visit the many observation points in the region, such as the one at Cap-de-Bon-Désir, where you can watch whales from shore, or at Pointe-Noire, which overlooks the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord. In Tadoussac, a team of naturalists will explain the creation of sand dunes, while the marine mammal interpretation centre, located near the marina, is the perfect complement to your whale-watching cruise.

You will be able to practice a whole range of outdoor activities in Charlevoix, including hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, sport fishing, sea kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, treks in the woods and more. Simply choose the park or site in this scenic region you would like to visit: the Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix, Centre écologique de Port-au-Saumon, Parc d’aventure en montagne de Charlevoix (Les Palissades), Parc des Grands-Jardins, Parc des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, Site régional de la Montagne de la Croix de Clermont...

At the Cap-aux-Pierres Hotel, you can rent a bicycle and set out on a tour of the island to explore the local plant and animal life. The stunning fields and coastal habitats form a rich heritage we are committed to protecting.

When in Charlevoix or Quebec City, you can visit one of over a dozen economuseums, such as honey in Château-Richer, flour on Île-aux-Coudres, cheese at Baie-Saint-Paul or fur in Old Quebec. Incidentally, the fur economuseum is located near the Clarendon, another outstanding Groupe Dufour hotel where you can enjoy our renowned hospitality.