When arriving via Highway 170, which cuts through the entire city of Saguenay, the Delta Saguenay Hotel stands out with its impressive height and sprawling footprint, acting as a welcoming beacon. This sets the tone for what its management offers to visitors, whether for family vacations in the region, a brief work trip, or an event or business meeting at its conference center.
Located in the Jonquière sector of Saguenay, this 4-star Marriott hotel caters to both families and business travelers. It sits slightly outside the city center and away from the Saguenay River, 26 km from Bagotville Airport, which serves the region. With its Boston Pizza restaurant, newly added indoor pool, and fitness center, the Delta Saguenay is one of the premier hotel establishments in the area.
According to the hotel’s General Manager, Olivier Fortin-Tremblay, investments made by the owners since 2012 have transformed it into a unique location in the region. The refined rooms include amenities such as a desk, ergonomic chairs, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and mini-fridges. Some rooms feature bathtubs, while others have walk-in showers. Suites additionally include a fridge, microwave, dining area, fireplace, and sofa bed.
All rooms were renovated in 2012, drawing inspiration from the Canadian landscape with a refreshing and modern color palette and maximized use of natural light. Previously owned by an Ontario financial group, the Delta Saguenay became locally owned in 2017, led by businessman Laval Boulianne with support from the regional FTQ Solidarity Fund.
In 2018, the franchise managers invested in building a restaurant near the main lobby entrance, followed by a $1.2 million investment in a two-story annex housing an indoor pool with a spa and sauna, as well as an interactive playroom. These upgrades, operational since 2020, were necessary to attract more families, according to the General Manager. While maintaining its business focus with the conference center, the building now also offers a recreational purpose.
The Delta conference center boasts spacious rooms with all the necessary logistics for major events: 17 conference rooms and a ballroom spanning 11,660 square feet. The venue is highly regarded for the quality of its facilities and professional services provided to organizers of various events and meetings.
Of note, the Delta Saguenay also welcomes snowmobiling enthusiasts during winter, given its proximity to major regional and provincial trails. Additionally, the management practices an inclusive guest policy for all visitors.
In fall 2023, the hotel owners hinted at plans to improve the region's accommodation offerings, which are deemed insufficient by local tourism development stakeholders. Studies show that event attendees prefer to stay onsite. The Delta Saguenay currently offers 160 rooms, with plans to increase to 200 by adding a new tower on businessman Laval Boulianne’s property. This project could be realized by early 2024.
Stepping into the Fjord Distillery shop, nestled at the foot of the Monts-Valin, it's nearly impossible not to be charmed by the smiling and dynamic team. For the Bouchard family and their employees, each person who enters the shop is much more than just a customer. They are a partner in the family's success!
During my visit, the marketing manager – Frédérique Folly – eagerly introduced me to one of their most recent successes: a 1.75-liter cubitainer, featuring their famous KM 12 boreal forest gin. Not available at the SAQ, the ‘ginier’ of the Bouchard family, the first micro-distillery in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region, has been selling like hotcakes since its market launch. This is in addition to their maple gin and Sélection blueberry brandy, high-end products they are particularly proud of.
Finally, let me tell you about one of the top sellers since last summer: the Hilymoncello lemon liqueur, which gives nothing less than a second life to the lemons used by the company. I am referring to the recycled lemons from their original cocktail and ready-to-drink productions. A brilliant idea... that is bearing fruit!
There are numerous projects on the horizon for the creators of the Fjord Distillery. In the coming months, the management will unveil a series of new products that will undoubtedly continue to enhance the company's reputation for many years to come.
It's worth noting that at the Fjord Distillery, the forest and the family are at the heart of the business. The team is committed to improving year after year in terms of sustainable development, in order to leave a positive mark on their customers and the environment.
The Fjord Distillery 48, Chemin de Price Saint-David-de-Falardeau 418 673-1012 distilleriedufjord.com
Upon the announcement of my visit to Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, the well-informed promptly provided me with a list of the finest dining spots not to be missed in the region. Among them was the table at the O'Batillage restaurant, offering exquisite local cuisine within the Auberge des Battures in the town of La Baie. Chef Étienne Trottier ensures a local supply that introduces us to the best of the boreal forest and regional producers. Even though we were in the low season of November, the team at O'Batillage welcomed us wonderfully. For my part, I was treated to a three-course meal, starting with smoked salmon from La Boucanerie d’Henri. Beyond this salmon, which I believe is the best in Quebec, the dish included a Frambleu coulis (from Domaine Le Cageot), cucumbers, flaxseed oil (from Ferme Tournevent), capers, raspberries, and puffed wild rice. An unmissable starter!
For the main course, I chose the seafood pasta featuring fresh tagliolini (La Prod LP) in Mornay sauce, Matane shrimp, Prince Edward Island mussels, Iles-de-la-Madeleine scallops, white fish, and sea lettuce. A generous portion that satisfies hearty appetites. Of course, we always save room for dessert, and I was tempted by an excellent crème brûlée. I could not have made a better choice!
Experiencing the restaurant at Auberge des Battures is certainly a delight for the taste buds, but it is equally pleasing for the eyes. Throughout my substantial meal, the establishment, managed by Mr. Éric Civel, offered me an unparalleled view of the Saguenay Fjord. A feast for all your senses.
Restaurant O'Batillage / Auberge des Battures 6295, boulevard de la grande Baie Sud Saguenay, La Baie district 418 544-8234 https://obatillage.com
Unnoticed, autumn advances swiftly, soon making way for winter. And with winter comes the ski season. I had the opportunity to meet a vibrant team at Valinouët, nestled in the heart of the Monts-Valin massif in Saint-David-de-Falardeau. Celebrated as one of Quebec's most sought-after mountains, Valinouët is gearing up to grandly celebrate its 40th anniversary this year. For the occasion, Stéphane Leblond and his marketing team are preparing a host of events to mark this significant milestone. Among these, there will be a mega vintage après-ski party, showcasing styles and colors from the 1980s, on the upcoming January 20th. The event will feature a DJ spinning popular hits from the era, raffles with numerous prizes, and much more!
Although the entire 2023-2024 season will be marked by the 40th-anniversary festivities, Valinouët is also hosting two other major events on February 24th and March 23rd, 2024: the mega family days. For these occasions, the Saint-David-de-Falardeau establishment will animate the days, still in vintage colors and styles, with mascots, DJs, and food trucks. Special rates will also be offered for these days. These will be announced soon on their official website.
Enthusiasts from across the province agree: there's no skiing quite like that at Valinouët. The absence of snow cannons makes all the difference. It's particularly for this reason that thousands of visitors from all corners of Quebec come to enjoy the numerous activities at Valinouët, from alpine skiing to all-terrain biking, extreme skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, tubing, backcountry skiing, and the magnificent snow park.
Le Valinouët 181, Route du Valinouët Saint-David-de-Falardeau 1 866 260-8254 https://valinouet.qc.ca
According to Marie Lerdu, the lodging manager, the project to restore this 1960s motel was a bit of a wild idea. Nevertheless, this initiative has borne fruit, as today, the Auberge Camp de Base, located at the entrance to L'Anse Saint-Jean in the heart of the Bas Saguenay valley, has quickly become a true hub of village life.
In addition to efficiently managing the lodging aspect of the establishment (9 rooms, a dormitory, a communal kitchen, and several camping areas), the team at Auberge Camp de Base also offers a resto-bar highlighting local products, including meats and fish smoked on-site. After a few weeks of rest, the resto-bar team is back for the colorful winter season. On the menu, a complete tourist experience in the Bas-Saguenay area, in partnership with Mont-Édouard, Entre Chien et Loups, and Saguenay Adventures. Indulge in one of the excursion packages that connect you with 40 malamute dogs in the heart of the Fjord-du-Saguenay mountains, or enjoy essential days of alpine skiing, snowshoeing, Fatbike, and cross-country skiing.
Upon returning to Auberge Camp de Base, you can relax and enjoy a unique culinary experience, as the establishment is certified as a flavor ambassador by Zone Boréale, placing great importance on the origin of its local or regional products: "Although the place attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year, we have the reputation of being a social gathering place for village residents," shares Marie Lerdu. "The mix of tourists and our residents creates very warm evenings. That's why we've just made some renovations, allowing us to offer several themed evenings to our customers." In the coming months, Auberge Camp de Base will offer art openings, song performances, improvisation, and even board game nights.
Open from Thursday to Saturday starting at 4 PM, the resto-bar at Auberge Camp de Base invites you to its Holiday season party on the upcoming Saturday, December 16, starting at 6 PM. The group Les Quêteux du Lac-St-Jean will perform traditional call-and-response songs, accompanied by the experienced caller Ghislain Jutras. Tickets priced at $18 are available on site. The upcoming evenings' programming will be available through the official Facebook page of the inn: https://facebook.com/aubergelecampdebase.
Furthermore, the management of Auberge Camp de Base is delighted to participate as an official exhibitor at the European Christmas Market of Saguenay, held from November 30 to December 3 and from December 7 to 10 at Place du Citoyen in Chicoutimi. On-site, over 32 exhibitors, mulled wine, and hundreds of gift ideas, all in an enchanting and magical Christmas setting.
Barbara and Phil Thibodeau built from scratch, without a pun intended, this imposing residence assembled piece by piece, serving as a Bed & Breakfast by the sea in Pointe-Verte, New Brunswick. They named it Gîte Toutes Saisons (All Seasons B&B) to express their desire to make it a welcoming place all year round.
Each of the four rooms bears an evocative name: Summer Sunset, Autumn Sunrise, Winter Refuge, Spring Serenade.
Hospitality in all seasons
Located between Bathurst and Campbelton, the B&B began welcoming travelers in 2000. A few years earlier, this site was just a large two-acre lot without any development. After acquiring it in 1999, they undertook to build a large house and develop the land to reflect their values and passion, with the added bonus of immediate proximity to the sea with its tides, sunrises, and aquatic birdlife.
Phil and Barbara hired local labor to build their B&B. This local cedar wood cottage, entirely designed by the owners, is a place of serenity in the Baie des Chaleurs.
Nature lovers, the hosts have a strong ecological conscience. They practice sound waste and food resource management, sourcing locally as much as possible, and highlighting local artisans. They opted for underfloor heating, which only heats occupied spaces during the day to reduce energy consumption.
With undeniable social commitment, Phil (originally from Bathurst) and Barbara (born in Ontario) are hosts who share their culture with authenticity and generosity. They sit down at the table with travelers and share life anecdotes and diverse knowledge. Phil has long participated in the multicultural committee aimed at fostering exchange between locals and immigrants, in addition to volunteering to accompany the sick. They are passionate about promoting change in their community. Barbara retired a few years ago from a teaching career in Chatham, Ontario.
Phil and Barbara, the welcoming hosts
The only house rules are: arrive when you want, go to bed when you are tired, get up when you are well-rested, and eat when you are hungry! The four rooms are spacious and cozy, inviting peaceful sleep. A fine cook, Phil will surprise you with a delicious local breakfast at the large table in their beautiful rustic dining room. "Phil loves preparing meals for people," explains Barbara. He is in his element in the kitchen. "You should see him go when we have family over during the holidays or when we welcome groups to the B&B," she adds.
They have many stories to tell, which they share authentically and simply with their guests. They raised a beautiful family of four children, one of whom still resides in Acadia while three are in Ontario. One of their granddaughters, a professional cook, has already shown interest in taking over from her grandparents when they decide to pass the torch. Phil is 83 and Barbara is 78. Even though they are in relatively good health, the day will come when they will have to think about resting and living peaceful days. Owning and managing a B&B for nearly 25 years is no easy feat.
Several services are included in the accommodation rate, including breakfast, Wi-Fi, direct access to the sea and beach, gardens, parking, etc.
Courtyard of the B&B
What is certain is that a stay with these open-minded and welcoming people guarantees good times and happy memories.
Gîte Toutes saisons B&B relaxseaside.com
10, rue des Oiseaux
Pointe-Verte (NB)
(506) 783-3122
The Musée de la Mer in Havre-Aubert, located at Cape Gridley on the historic site of La Grave in the Magdalen Islands, is perched proudly on one of the region's most stunning vantage points. Since moving to this location in 1974, after spending its early years in the former parish hall of Havre following its 1969 founding, the museum has played a leading role in preserving the maritime and cultural heritage of the islands.
This mission is carried out through research, conservation, public education, and showcasing the unique insular identity that shapes life for the people of the Magdalen Islands.
For those who love striking features in museums, a highlight greets visitors in the main hall of this expanded and renovated building (completed in 2011): a whale skeleton suspended dramatically from the ceiling.
A historical note: In May 2008, a sperm whale washed ashore near Pointe-aux-Loups. After confirming its death, a group of Magdalen Islanders decided to exhibit the skeleton at the museum. Led by Claude Bourque, Pierre-Henry Fontaine, and Paul Grégoire, along with 20 other volunteers, the group spent three days dissecting the carcass. The bones were meticulously cleaned and numbered, and after over six years of preparation, the 215 bones were reassembled and installed in the museum’s main hall in December 2014.
Since late 2022, Gabrielle Leblanc has been the museum's director. She continues the work of its founder, Father Frédéric Landry, who led the museum for over 30 years. With a background in political science, literature, and project management, Ms. Leblanc has been active in the cultural and heritage sector for many years. From 2008 to 2021, she served as supervisor of cultural activities and as a cultural heritage and library coordinator for the Municipality of the Magdalen Islands.
On August 8, 1969, the Museum of the Islands was inaugurated in the presence of Quebec Premier Jean-Jacques Bertrand. In 1972, the museum relocated and was renamed Musée de la Mer. The Quebec government provided a $200,000 grant to construct a dedicated building for the museum.
Engaging Exhibitions and Captivating Activities "The Musée de la Mer provides an immersive experience into Magdalen culture through its year-round exhibitions and activities. Visitors can expect a warm welcome from our inspiring and passionate staff, as well as outstanding permanent and temporary exhibitions suitable for the whole family," says Gabrielle Leblanc.
The permanent exhibition "Living on the Islands, Living the Islands," along with rotating displays featuring local artists, genealogical resources, maritime artifacts, and lectures, awaits the many visitors each year. Topics range from fishing traditions to shipwrecks, offering something for both locals and tourists.
From May to October 2023, visitors can explore Annie Morin’s multidisciplinary exhibit, "A Walk on the Ocean Floor." This stunning showcase features sculptural and pictorial works inspired by the organic forms of the ocean and the interplay between its fragility and strength.
A notable event occurred in February 1971 when the museum hosted the exhibit "The Moon Lands on the Islands," featuring moon rocks brought back by Apollo 11 in 1969.
In July 1987, the Islands Aquarium was inaugurated in the historic Saltworks building at La Grave. It showcased the flora and fauna of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Although its focus shifted in 2017, the building now features a second-floor exhibition on La Grave’s history and cultural activities on the ground floor during summer. Experts are working to secure the 1895 structure to preserve its heritage.
The Musée de la Mer is a non-profit organization managed by a board chaired by Normand Thellab. It employs a multidisciplinary team and hosts researchers in archaeology and forensic anthropology each summer.
Musée de la Mer museedelamer-im.com 1023, chemin De La Grave Havre-Aubert, QC G4T 9C8 418 937-5711
Founded with the simple concept of bringing an Italian bistro-style restaurant to Campbellton, Pronto offers dishes such as delicious appetizers, salads, and pasta, not to mention a well-stocked drink menu. It also serves the famous fresh pasta from L'Atelier Gourmand.
The owner, Keegan Rose, opened his restaurant in July 2022, and it is already recognized among the city's top-rated by critics and customers. He has been working in the restaurant industry since reaching adulthood. Having had the opportunity to open his own restaurant, he jumped at the chance.
The owner, Keegan Rose
In fact, he occupies the premises that the restaurant where he previously worked had left vacant when it moved elsewhere. A well-located and very busy place in the heart of the city, surrounded by many local businesses and very close to the Interprovincial Bridge leading to Quebec.
His initial project: to offer only Italian food at affordable and reasonable prices. He certainly believes it is possible to find it elsewhere in the city. But he points out that at his place, it is authentic and different from others. "Campbellton was missing this kind of place," he asserts. He personally trains the cooks who prepare the dishes that are the basis of his inspiration. Apart from the Italian menu, there is an interesting wine list featuring local and renowned products, as well as beers.
Pronto can accommodate about 40 people inside. A terrace outside in good weather allows for an additional fifteen or so. About 10 people find employment there.
While still in his thirties, he never thought he could own his own restaurant before his fifties. Having returned to Campbellton a few years ago, after working for some time in Calgary, for a restaurant chain in Rothesay, and having obtained his "red seal" chef certificate in Moncton, Keegan now felt ready to take the plunge.
Pronto is open from Tuesday to Saturday, for lunch and dinner. It is noteworthy that the owner and staff can provide service in both French and English. Taking great care of customers is part of his concept. And it seems to be working. It is advisable to book in advance to secure a table on weekends.
Pronto – Italian Bistro prontocampbellton.com 99, Roseberry St Campbellton (NB) E3N 2G6 506.753.5000
The owner, Keegan Rose
