Gaspé

Perched at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula where the St. Lawrence River widens into the Gulf, Gaspé is a city painted in vivid coastal colour, fringed by the sea and the rolling green hills of eastern Quebec. Known as the "Birthplace of Canada" after Jacques Cartier’s 1534 arrival, Gaspé blends centuries-old history with natural grandeur, all set against the backdrop of fishing boats bobbing in a lively harbour and the distant, windswept capes.

Gaspé’s character is reflected in its warm, bilingual community and the proud Mi’kmaq heritage that adds rich layers to local culture. Just outside town, Forillon National Park beckons with dramatic cliffs, pebble beaches and panoramic lookouts where you may spot seals or breaching whales. The town centre itself offers a delightful mix of local cafés, seafood restaurants serving fresh catches, and inviting shops that showcase handmade crafts.

Among its most beloved landmarks is the Cathédrale du Christ-Roi, an architectural gem with striking stained glass. The waterfront Musée de la Gaspésie offers interactive exhibits that weave together the stories of settlers, sailors and Indigenous peoples. Every summer, Gaspé bursts into celebration with the Festival Musique du Bout du Monde, where international artists and renowned Quebec musicians perform against astonishing seaside vistas.

Outdoor adventurers can kayak along scarlet-hued cliffs or hike scenic trails, while food lovers indulge in fresh Atlantic lobster and microbrewery creations. With its blend of living history, outdoor exhilaration and a relaxed, welcoming vibe, Gaspé effortlessly captures the spirit of coastal Quebec and keeps visitors returning year after year.