By Gaëtan Vaudry

Ever heard of "glamping"? It's a blend of glamour and camping, offering eco-friendly lodging that immerses you in nature while providing the luxury and amenities of a hotel room. This is precisely what our friends at Exode en nature in Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, a municipality on the north shore of the Saguenay Fjord, deliver.

Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the delightful Vincent Fréchette, one of the four shareholders and an unexpectedly professional and passionate guide. He began by sharing the story behind their beautiful venture. Legend has it that Exode was the name of the first shareholders Vicky Maltais and Patrick Prévost's sailboat during their incredible Bahamas adventure. In the summer of 2020, Exode was stolen in the Bahamas, and the couple wanted to preserve this beautiful memory by naming their unique lodging center after it.

The Tranquility of a Nature Retreat

Exode en Nature boasts five uniquely original and tastefully decorated residences, echoing their Caribbean sea experiences with catamaran nets. Nestled in an enchanting 8.5-acre site beside the Pelletier River and at the foot of the Monts-Valin, they offer La Mélilot and La Baumier chalets, Myrica Yurt, La Thuya Dome, and Pod Le Sumac cottage. Each can comfortably accommodate two to four adults (up to six with a sofa bed), featuring standard amenities like a shower, bedding, dishes, Wi-Fi, and a propane gas stove. Don't miss the outdoor relaxation spaces by the stream, whose gentle flow enhances the tranquility of a stay in nature, complete with outdoor fireplaces and wood-heated Nordic spas!

Interestingly, the owners of Exode en nature happily welcome leashed pets: "We want people to have a memorable adventure in the heart of nature," says co-owner Vicky Maltais. "Animals under 50 pounds are welcome, as we understand how many of our guests wish to rejuvenate accompanied by their pets." And speaking of rejuvenation, Exode en nature is the ideal spot for a romantic getaway or a weekend with family or friends.

Activities for Every Taste

Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to do at Exode en nature. In winter, within a few kilometers, you can enjoy snowmobiling, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, dog sledding, tobogganing, and even ice fishing. Note that all Exode en nature accommodations provide free snowshoes, inviting you to escape into the wilderness. In summer, the list extends to fishing in nearly 650 lakes, hunting, kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking, beach activities, golf, and of course, hiking.

Exode en nature represents the hard work of four members of this wonderfully welcoming family - Gabrielle Prévost, Vincent's partner, completes the quartet - all with one goal: to offer you a stay that meets your expectations.

Exode en nature
1516, Route de Tadoussac
Sainte-Rose-du-Nord
418 540-1455
exodeennature.com

By Gaëtan Vaudry

When you visit Chicoutimi, especially on the famous Racine Street, you can't miss the equally renowned Bistro D. Owned by businessman David Rousseau, this establishment aims to blend French, Italian, and Asian influences, delighting a loyal clientele with delicious traditional dishes made with the finest local and seasonal ingredients.

Bistro D has been a shining star in downtown Chicoutimi for several years, and its little sisters, the Sandwicherie and the Salaison du Bistro D, are no less impressive. The pride of its owner and founder, the Salaison du Bistro D offers superior quality charcuteries: "Each piece of meat is hand-prepared, artisanally," emphasizes David Rousseau. "We subtly add spices and herbs, creating a feast for the senses." The Salaison du Bistro D boasts a variety of excellent products, including dry sausages, lonzu, salami, chaudin, coppa, bresaola, ventrèche, and many more.

In the high season, many French tourists make a detour to the Salaison du Bistro D. A Parisian customer recently stated: "I must declare my love: for 2 years in Quebec, I've been searching for a sausage reminiscent of those I had in France. I just found it in my local grocery, and it's a delight. Oh, how I missed it!" Such comments proudly flood the social media pages of Monsieur D's charcuteries, available at various points of sale in Quebec. Monsieur D's charcuteries were even semi-finalists at the 2023 Agri-Food Grand Prix Gala, in the Maxi and Provigo Public's Choice Award category. Quite an achievement!

Where David and his team truly stand out is in their precious partnerships with artisans from Saguenay. For instance, they created a sausage with beer and pork from the Villoise Farm in Saint-Gédéon, and sausages with Beemer Vodka, in collaboration with Morille Québec, offered by the Beemer Distillery in Roberval.

If you try a dish at Bistro D, a friendly staff member will be able to suggest a variety of privately imported wines, carefully selected to enhance the flavors of your plate.

Bistro D / The Sandwicherie / The Salaison du Bistro D
381, Racine Street East, Chicoutimi
418 973-4668
Bistro D / The Sandwicherie Facebook Page
The Salaison du Bistro D Facebook Page

By Gaëtan Vaudry

I knew that stopping in Baie-Comeau, an industrial-port city on the North Shore, would give me the chance to meet friendly people. This was indeed the case with Frédéric St-Laurent Garon, one of the three shareholders of the Boucherie les trois p'tits cochons. Getting to know Fred, as everyone calls him, is to meet a passionate craftsman. For him, meats hold no secrets, not to mention sushi, of which he became a master over a good decade. The most loyal customers praise the impeccable service of the butchery's team, as well as the great variety of numerous products, their quality, and the much-anticipated return of the sushi counter.

Fred and his partner make it a duty to offer a good dozen products from local producers (including those from Les jardins de Carmanor farm), and several products from Boucherie les trois p'tits cochons also feature on the menus of Manicouagan restaurants: "It's important for us to promote the work of local artisans," the main interested party emphasizes. "We're even thinking of proposing to another butchery in the region to create a new sauce with us. Simply to demonstrate the beautiful fraternity that exists between the businesses of Baie-Comeau."

Well worth the detour!

Among the top sellers at Boucherie les trois p'tits cochons are, of course, classic beef, but also marinated meats, a wide variety of sausages, charcuteries (including those from Charcuterie Le porc-épique), beef and salmon tartares, not to mention the veal and haskap berry tartare, a real lightly fruity delight, and the house's cheeseburger tartare. During my visit, Fred had just finished preparing stuffed jalapeno peppers with cheese and wrapped in bacon... who can top that?

Always in search of novelties, Fred is very happy about his new collaboration with Pinto's MC Wagyu, offering Wagyu beef of exceptional quality, originating from Japan. "The quality of this beef is incredible," the young businessman points out. "And its flavor, highly enhanced. It's not cheap, but it's worth the detour!"

Fred and his team have many projects. The return of the popular sushi counter shows just how much this product is in demand at the Baie-Comeau butchery: "The boxes disappear almost the moment we place them in the counter," explains the expert. "We are therefore in constant production, to meet the high demand." I personally had the chance to experience a dish of 10 sushis, specially prepared by dear Fred. And I can now understand the enthusiasm of aficionados for this excellent product of Boucherie les trois p'tits cochons!

Boucherie les trois p'tits cochons
873, rue Bossé, Baie-Comeau
418 294-0804
Visit the butchery's Facebook page

By Gaëtan Vaudry

Tadoussac is arguably one of the most beautiful summer tourist regions in Quebec. However, this North Shore region is much quieter in winter. Fortunately, thanks to our friends at Chalets-camping Domaine des Dunes, it is possible to have very pleasant moments there, even in the winter season!

Located between the tourist village of Tadoussac and the famous Dunes (two huge marine sand terraces exposed by the last ice melt about 10,000 years ago), the Domaine des Dunes site, nestled in a birch forest, is simply enchanting. It offers both camping and chalet rentals that can accommodate up to six people, as well as the rental of a kamook and even a wooden tipi... nothing less! "We resume service in winter, to the delight of our customers," says co-owner Bernadette Roduit Bender, with a broad smile. "The experiences in kamook and tipi are done in camping styles, that is, with access to a sanitary facility with toilets and showers, washer and dryer, as well as a community room."

Several activities are available even in winter at Domaine des Dunes, including a highly appreciated welcome for snowmobile enthusiasts in the boreal forest, trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. In summer, the region abounds with activities, including whale watching cruises, black bear observation, sea kayaking, marine mammal interpretation center, the region's fine dining, and much more.

Bernadette, who is joined by her daughter and son for all aspects of Domaine des Dunes, has worked very hard in recent weeks to welcome you this winter. During my short visit to Tadoussac at the end of November, the family was busy making final adjustments to welcome numerous clients for the beautiful winter season. Moreover, Bernadette and her team invite you to book your chalet, kamook, or wooden tipi for the holiday season before December 10th. They even promise a nice surprise!

Domaine des Dunes (Chalets-camping)
585, Chemin de la Rivière-du-Moulin-à-Baude
Tadoussac
418 235-4843
domainedesdunes.com

They say that a people or community's future depends on knowing its history. If that's true, a visit to the Acadian Historical Village in Blanchard, near Caraquet, is a must for anyone interested in the history of Acadia and its people.

From June to September, the Village showcases the daily life of Acadians from 1770 to 1949, thanks to some forty historical buildings brought to life by costumed, bilingual interpreters. This vast open-air museum also offers a hotel and a restaurant, in addition to activities and entertainment.

Located in the heart of the Village, the Château Albert Hotel offers 14 rooms and is a replica of the Château Albert, built in 1907 in Caraquet. The rooms respect the historic character, with a few minor details. Enjoy the tranquility of yesteryear in a modern setting. A buffet breakfast is offered to guests.

During a visit to the Historical Village, you can also treat yourself to a snack or a delicious meal. The Village Café-Bistro is a 40-seat family restaurant with a terrace, near the Village entrance. It offers a menu of Acadian dishes and contemporary cuisine staples, as well as a selection of specialty coffees. Open from June 6 to September 16, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

La Table des Ancêtres is housed in the historic Dugas house. The 30-seat restaurant offers traditional Acadian dishes, in addition to the best sugar pie in the region. Discover the delights of yesteryear served with love, just like at Grandma's, from June 6 to September 16, 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

The 2024 season has started since June 6. Season passes are available for visits all summer long, for the whole family. The Acadian Historical Village identifies as LGBTQ+ friendly (homosympa).

Acadian Historical Village
villagehistoriqueacadien.com
506.726.2600
5, rue du Pont
Bertrand, NB E1W 0E1

In Greek mythology, he is the master and regulator of the winds. In a vast cavern, Aeolus keeps the winds and noisy storms chained and imprisoned, striving to escape. In Cap-Chat, Gaspésie, since 1994, people have been visiting the great Aeolus, one of the world's largest vertical-axis wind turbines.

 
In 2019, two Gaspésie enthusiasts, Benjamin Leduc and Benoit Bénéteau, acquired the vertical-axis wind turbine of Cap-Chat. A new young and dynamic management team is in place, bringing together diverse experiences. The ambitions of these promoters are significant for this project, which was nearly abandoned at one time, but is now undergoing complete revaluation and transformation. "Former wind research laboratory becomes a laboratory on the environment and renewable energy," explain its co-owners.

"I see the site as a unique industrial heritage in the world," Benjamin Leduc declared in an interview with Radio-Canada shortly after the acquisition. The site is intended for tourist purposes and presents the project as a monument dedicated to Quebec's technological heritage and is also an interpretation center on wind energy. The artistic and educational aspects around the theme of wind energy, omnipresent all around, are also being developed.

"Our concept is a bit like a research project of a research project," he explains, to demonstrate the unique and fascinating aspect of their commitment.

Located in the middle of an important wind farm in the region that adorns the plateaus at some distance from route 132 along the Saint Lawrence estuary, Éole is a relic from the beginnings of renewable energy research in Quebec. The 110-meter-high giant was an important step in the development of wind power. Anyone traveling in the area is surprised by the immensity of this large vertical ellipse that overlooks the landscape.

Built in the mid-1980s, Éole was decommissioned since 1993, following an unexpected strong wind that damaged the main bearing of the device, probably also due to the enormous weight of this structure. The power station was not in operation long enough to transition from experimental mode to the status of a modern electric power plant. The project launched by Hydro-Québec pooled resources from the National Research Council Canada (NRCC) and the Quebec Electricity Research Institute (IREQ) to develop these technologies in North America.

It is also important to understand that this experimental wind turbine, entirely made of steel, was erected at a time when the composite materials that characterize the blades of today's wind turbines were not yet available.

   
The two partners and co-owners wish to invest more in modernizing the tourist site. They see a lot of potential. In addition to knowledge transmission, they propose discovering the Éole site through various initiatives and playful activities. The site is intended to be a leading attraction for Gaspésie. "A place of wonder and discoveries," adds Benjamin Leduc. Beyond the technological and scientific aspect, the Éole Project also wants to capitalize on the growing interest in self-production of electric energy through small wind turbines. It will offer training and workshops for those interested in getting involved.

The visit to the Éole Project includes:
- Discovering the experimental energy plant built in the 80s.
- Entering the generator and seeing all its vestiges to understand its unique design.
- Explanatory panels on the history of Éole, wind power development, and current industry facts, along with a guide to answer all your questions.
- A panoramic viewpoint with a 360 view to admire the picturesque landscape of the Nordais wind park (first in Quebec) and its surroundings (Cap-Chat, the sea, and the Chic-Chocs mountains), as well as a closer view of the tower.

A Foundation to Ensure Its Future
Finally, let us mention the creation of the Fondation Éole, a new development tool for the project. It is an organization focused on the education of renewable energies and sustainable development. It will develop in a way to popularize and share new developments related to these current topics, all within a playful framework and a purpose of integration into community and cooperative initiatives.

Conferences, educational workshops, physical and digital documentation, research and development in energy, and community involvement are the vectors of progress for the foundation. It will provide tools for exporting and disseminating information, content, and vision beyond the physical boundaries of the site. Both will evolve in synergistic development in the coming years. The foundation will synthesize the information present on the site for national dissemination.

An Attraction for the Whole Family

The Éole Project welcomes visitors every year from June 15 to October 1, 7 days a week, from 9 am to 5 pm. A visit that will interest the whole family with its originality and related educational activities. Visitors can also have a picnic, walk through flowered trails, and a permaculture garden at the foot of Éole. The wind-themed souvenir shop at the reception and on the site offers local Gaspesian crafts and unique Éole products.

Éole Project
projeteole.ca
5, chemin du Cap
Cap-Chat (Québec) G0J 1E0
418 967-8812

When Mathieu Guimond was developing his vision for a unique and distinctive lodging site in Gaspésie during the pandemic, he was struck by a spark of motivation that drove him to search for the perfect location.

It was upon seeing this expansive plot of land overlooking Gaspé Bay, perched atop the cliffs somewhere between Percé and Gaspé, that he decided this would be the place to bring his vision to life. It took him four months to negotiate with the Ontario-based owner. He even acquired adjacent plots and another strip on the mountain for future projects.

In 2020, he began work to prepare the vacant site, draft occupancy plans, design various chalet styles, develop the construction and interior design concepts, and coordinate with contractors to start building.

 
He planned underground electrical installations for each chalet, a potable water supply, and septic systems, ensuring that no unsightly elements would detract from the setting. The result is almost like a small independent village.

   
Chalets Nautika were built to offer an unforgettable Gaspésie experience. Stay in style and comfort while maintaining a connection with the natural beauty of a region full of attractions. You can even visit to enjoy the joys of Gaspésie’s winter. In addition to cozy, inviting accommodations, you'll be near places to enjoy unique activities like fat biking on the beach and in the forest, skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing, skating, Nordic spas, and more.

The chalets feature a modern, minimalist design while being warm and welcoming. They are equipped with everything necessary for modern life. Mathieu has gone above and beyond to ensure travelers feel entirely at ease. The mattresses are superior to anything else on the market, he emphasizes. "All you need to bring are your clothes, toiletries, and food—everything else is already there," he says.

 
Nautika offers a form of “glamping”—a blend of glamour and camping. This eco-friendly lodging immerses you in nature while providing the luxury and amenities of a hotel room. Here, it’s upscale “ready-to-camp.”

From the moment you step in, the light-filled space with its large windows invites nature inside. Throughout the seasons—under the sun, the stars, or with the sunrise on the point—Chalets Nautika provide a serene oasis. This scenic location offers panoramic views and top-tier comfort in Gaspésie.

 
Currently, the site features 20 chalets: 2 double units in the front, 5 double units in the rear, and 13 regular two-bed units scattered throughout. Plans are underway to add two more rear units and seven on a neighboring lot by 2023–2024. The site operates year-round. Chalet access is via a code for a key box mounted outside.

The site offers abundant entertainment options, including children’s games, hiking trails, cross-country ski tracks, birdwatching, volleyball, badminton, pétanque courts, campfire wood, and an on-site laundry facility. A semi-private beach is just 1 km away.

Chalets Nautika are just 15 minutes from Gaspé and 30 minutes from Forillon National Park and Percé, making it an ideal base to enjoy nearby tourist attractions.

Reservations can be made online through the Nautika website or other platforms like Airbnb.

One thing is certain: Mathieu Guimond (pictured) has plenty more ideas and projects in mind for this site and the surrounding area. Stay tuned to see what he has planned next.

Chalets Nautika Gaspésie
chaletsnautikagaspesie.ca
1961, Boul. Douglas
Gaspé, QC G4X 2W9
1 (866) 467-0801

By Gaëtan Vaudry

If you find yourself near Sept-Îles and are looking for an exceptional relaxation experience, you must stop at Spa Renaissance, a favored location offering a vast terrace with a breathtaking view of the water and the most beautiful sunsets.

This relaxation center offers a variety of packages to its clients, ranging from medical aesthetics to fitness, including relaxation, aesthetics, wellness, and much more. What sets Spa Renaissance apart from its competitors is that couples can receive treatments simultaneously, benefiting from very advantageous packages: "We indeed offer several package options that you can enjoy side by side," proudly states the owner Martin Carrier. "You can choose from several treatments: pedicure, manicure, facial, massage, hydrotherapy, neuro spa thermal sector, and much more!"

Another special feature of Spa Renaissance, located in the popular Hôtel Sept-Îles, are the tailor-made packages, which often include a variety of treatments, a gift card for the Bistro, and an overnight stay at the hotel. Spa Renaissance also offers two well-equipped training rooms, delighting many customers. A package that catches my attention is the Thermal Plus for $316, offering two three-hour accesses to the thermotherapy sector, a $50 gift card to the Bistro, and a double occupancy overnight stay at the hotel. Truly interesting! Additionally, I suggest inquiring about the Tropic and Havana packages, available until December 24th and perfectly fitting into a Christmas card, to offer your loved ones a special moment.

Spa Renaissance
451, avenue Arnaud, Sept-Îles
418 968-0606
sparenaissance.ca

By Gaëtan Vaudry

During our brief stay of a few days in the city of Saguenay, we couldn’t help but stop at Café Cambio on Racine East Street four or five times. Firstly, to enjoy the atmosphere of this downtown Chicoutimi solidarity cooperative, and secondly, to savor affordable and healthy dishes that showcase products from various local producers.

As soon as Virginie Simard-Dufour starts talking about the products available at this fair-trade and organic micro-roastery founded in March 2005, her eyes light up. She speaks passionately about the tireless teamwork of 32 members, including 10 worker-members: “ Under the label, we embody a vision of a better world—one where farmers and workers sit at the negotiating table as equals ,” proudly notes the service manager, restaurant coordinator, and barista.

Café Cambio, a key gathering spot for students from the Chicoutimi CEGEP and the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi (UQAC), is also a venue for showcasing young Saguenay artists. The establishment regularly hosts art openings and intimate acoustic concerts of emerging music.

During my visit last November, I had the chance to enjoy some excellent dishes at this establishment, which was the brainchild of two young Montrealers and childhood friends, Guylaine Pelletier and Geneviève Demers. To start, I had a comforting mushroom soup, perfect for that time of year. I followed it with the spicy Bedi panini (Cajun-seasoned chicken, caramelized onions, spinach, mozzarella, and vegenaise), served with salad, corn chips, and salsa. For dessert, I enjoyed the daily special, all accompanied by one of their excellent fair-trade coffees. To my surprise, the bill for this delicious three-course meal was very affordable!

What also struck me during my first visit was their “Pay it Forward” concept, where customers can anonymously donate a soup or coffee to someone in need. Given the growing issue of homelessness in downtown Chicoutimi, this gesture of generosity is truly admirable and meaningful.

Café Cambio’s coffee and products are available at various points of sale across the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, including Chicoutimi, Jonquière, La Baie, Saint-Ambroise/Saint-Honoré, MRC Lac-Saint-Jean-Est, MRC Domaine-du-Roy, Bas-Saguenay, Saint-Fulgence/Sainte-Rose-du-Sacré-Cœur, Tadoussac, Les Bergeronnes, Les Escoumins, and even the Côte-Nord!

Café Cambio
414, rue Racine Est, Chicoutimi
418 549-7830
cafecambio.ca