We’re lucky here in Quebec to have such an expansive playground that caters to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, no matter the season—summer or winter. Once the breathtaking autumn colours fade, we look toward the first snowflakes, hoping they’ll turn into impressive snowfalls so we can dive into our favourite winter sports around the stunning landscapes.

If you find yourself looking to break away this winter and catch some of the best snow conditions in the province—why not treat yourself to a little getaway to Gaspésie for an extended stay?

We do just that every year. A winter road trip that brings my friends and me together to fully embrace the season, spending our days exploring outside and ending them with a delicious meal featuring the region’s signature dishes. In short, it’s a road trip to warm the soul!

How Much Time Should You Plan to Visit Gaspésie?

Gaspésie is vast. This land of ocean and mountains is divided into eight regions, each offering picturesque villages, impressive landscapes, and a wealth of outdoor activities.

The sheer size of the area is captivating—weeks wouldn’t be enough to explore all its attractions. While you could easily spend extended periods there without getting bored, just a few days, plus one if you can manage, are enough to fill your memory with unforgettable experiences.

In collaboration with Tourisme Gaspésie, we’re sharing a 4-day winter road trip in Haute-Gaspésie. This region, stretching from Cap-Chat to Sainte-Madeleine-de-la-Rivière-Madeleine, is home to the iconic Chic-Choc Mountains—Quebec’s ultimate backcountry skiing playground. Perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, this journey promises an ideal mix of adventure and discovery, showcasing a stunning region where extraordinary experiences are enjoyed with simple charm.

Day 1: Heading to Haute-Gaspésie

From Montreal, it’s about an eight-hour drive to Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, the principal town in Haute-Gaspésie. We stake on the road ahead, listening to our favourite songs, but more importantly, to plan out the days ahead while we have the time.

Where to stay?

The one thing we made sure to book in advance was our hotel. We chose a Panora seaside lodge—charming, modern cottages just a few meters from the water, offering amazing views of the sunset. Designed to accommodate up to four people, these lodges come with a private spa and are perfect for a weekend getaway with friends. With their cozy and inviting atmosphere, they feel just like home, making them the ideal spot to unwind after a day exploring the Chic-Choc’s backcountry.

Where to dine? 

After indulging in a generous helping of candy on the drive (because what’s a road trip without a stash of gas station sweets?), we stop at Le Malbord Microbrewery for a proper meal. With its relaxed, friendly vibe, it’s the perfect place to relive the day’s adventures over a locally brewed beer. It’s also the ideal setting to finalize our plans for the next day—like deciding exactly when to set our alarms.

Day 2: Skiing at La Vallée Taconique

Day 2, and we’re off to La Vallée Taconique! The Haute-Gaspésie region is renowned as a backcountry skier’s paradise, and La Vallée Taconique is one of its most sought-after destinations because of the vistas it offers.

This ski area, reserved for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders, stands out for its two steep slopes and benefits from a microclimate that delivers remarkable snowfall, with an annual average of 600 cm of snow. The conditions are, to put it not so mildly, mind-blowing, with powder so deep it feels like you could float above the snow—a one-of-a-kind experience that’s bound to hook any skier!

After spending the entire morning skinning uphill, our legs are starting to give out, but not ready to call it a day. We decide to treat ourselves in the afternoon by using the lift service. This super convenient option lets us enjoy the snow until nightfall while maximizing our runs.

If you plan to ascend on your own, don’t forget your climbing skins—they’re an absolute must in the Chic-Chocs!