Set off to discover the panoramas of Franquelin, Godbout, and Baie-Trinité!

A journey of slow travel, quiet contemplation, natural splendor, and genuine encounters. From the shore, the giants of the St. Lawrence almost always reveal themselves to the attentive eye. Here, the sea unveils its secrets: a spout, a fin, a back slicing through the water.

Welcome to the panoramas!

In this authentic corner of the world where time slows down and nature takes the lead, access to certain services (gas, groceries, restaurants) may be limited. Fill up your tank, keep a snack on hand, and check store hours in advance. That way, you'll be free to enjoy your journey with peace of mind.

Day 1 - Franquelin

Start your day gently with a coffee in hand, then head to the Pointe Mistassini lookout. This riverside observation site is ideal for spotting marine mammals. Soothed by the salty breeze, take a moment to recharge and stretch your legs along the trail that brings you right to the water's edge.

Next, make your way to the heart of the village of Franquelin to visit the Historic Forest Village. Step into the courageous saga of North Shore forestry workers, brought to life through a fascinating collection of artifacts and captivating stories.

For lunch, don't miss these two must-stop spots: The Franquelin convenience store, where home-cooked meals come with a side of heartfelt hospitality and local seafood specialties. Or, head to the old-fashioned bakery, where bread, brioches, and pizzas are lovingly prepared with tradition and passion.

Well-fed, it's time to take on the Croix Trail. Towering 210 metres above the river, like a lighthouse watching over the St. Lawrence, the majestic cross stands tall on its rocky cape. It rewards hikers with a breathtaking panoramic view where the sky's blue reflects on the water and the sun makes the waves sparkle.

In the afternoon, enjoy a refreshing swim or a water adventure at Lac Nord-Ouest: Cool waters, unspoiled nature, and pure moments of joy await.
In the evening, choose from several inviting accommodations—Franquelin Inn, the Entre mer et montagne B&B, or the cozy prospector cabins at the Historic Forest Village.

Day 2 - Franquelin to Godbout (22 km)

Before leaving Franquelin, a hike to Pointe-à-la-Croix awaits. This peaceful 10 km round-trip trail takes you through mossy forests and rewards you at the end with a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence. If you listen closely, you might even hear the distant blow of a whale.

As the day winds down, let yourself be enchanted by the golden light of Godbout. Cast a line at the mouth of the Grande Rivière Godbout to catch mackerel or striped bass, or settle on the nearby beach to watch the sunset and scan the bay for signs of marine giants or sand dollars. For true fishing enthusiasts, the Godbout ZEC offers guided salmon fishing excursions.

In the evening, the Resto-Pub housed in the former general store welcomes you for a warm and friendly atmosphere, intimate live performances, and hearty meals. Be sure to check the performance schedule and book your night out.

Day 3 - Godbout

Start your day with a stop at the tourist information office to admire the model ships, pick up your local map, and collect your souvenir sticker. Continue on to the Godbout Birds of Prey Interpretation Centre—one of only two rehabilitation centres for birds of prey in Québec—for a spectacular dive into the world of raptors, followed by a visit to the Indigenous Peoples Museum.

Hiking enthusiasts, take your pick: The Croix Trail offers scenic views, while the more challenging Mont Caburon Trail is perfect for seasoned hikers. Either way, the vistas are breathtaking.

For the night: If you're seeking peace and nature, opt for a stay in the Godbout ZEC. Prefer to stay in the heart of the village? Choose one of the welcoming local B&Bs. Campers will find a quiet haven at the municipal campground.

Day 4 - Godbout - Pointe-des-Monts and Baie-Trinité (40 km)

On your way to Baie-Trinité, be sure to stop at Pointe-des-Monts, where sweeping panoramas await. The Pointe-des-Monts lighthouse, open for guided tours, shares the stories of its keepers and their families. Take time to explore the rocks surrounding the lighthouse—smoothed and shaped by the ever-changing tides, calm and wild in turns. This is an ideal spot for whale watching as the evening light dances on the water.

Spend the night at the lighthouse B&B, in one of their cozy cabins, or at one of the nearby campgrounds.

Day 5 - Baie-Trinité

The Charlotte Trail (1 km) offers a gentle forest escape. Take your time and stop by the Baie-Trinité convenience store to pick up a freshly prepared dish or try one of their delicious seafood specialties. Alternatively, visit one of the village's popular roadside diners, where you'll be welcomed with warmth.

No visit to Baie-Trinité is complete without a stop at the Québec National Shipwreck Centre. Here, you'll uncover the stories behind some of the province's most significant shipwrecks. The centre is a vibrant place for exchange, exploration, and discovery.

From afternoon to twilight, end your day at Pointe-à-Poulin Beach—a true hidden gem that rivals the southern shores, with soft sand, gentle waves, and perhaps even a glimpse of a whale's breath on the horizon.

Wrap up your day with a peaceful night in one of the area's available accommodations.