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Portneuf: The Ultimate Guide To Outdoor, Cultural And Family Activities
Portneuf, just 40 minutes from Quebec City, is a must-see destination for nature lovers, cultural discoveries and family activities.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, heritage tours or gourmet delights, Portneuf offers a variety of year-round experiences.
In this article, discover the best activities and events to make the most of this region rich in history and nature.
Bras-du-Nord Valley
La Bras-du-Nord Valley1 hour from Quebec City, is a must-see destination for nature and adventure lovers. Among the activities on offer:
- HikingTrails lead to spectacular sites such as Delaney Falls Delaney Falls. Le niveau de difficulté varie, donc que vous soyez débutant ou expérimenté, vous trouverez un parcours adapté.
- Mountain bikingMore than 80 km of mountain bike trails are available, offering routes for all levels.
- Nautical activitiesCanoe and kayak rentals are available for exploring the Sainte-Anne River.
- CampingTo extend the experience, the site offers both rustic and fully equipped campgrounds.
Practical information:
- AddressAddress: 1834 Chemin du Bras-du-Nord, Saint-Raymond, QC G3L 3C3
- Opening hoursEvery day from 8am to 6pm
- PriceAccess to hiking trails is free. Mountain bike hire from 45 per dayand canoes/kayaks from 30 per day.
- ReservationRecommended for kayaking and biking. Please call 1-800-321-4992 for more details.
- AccessibilitySome sections are accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- CateringPicnic area available. You can bring your own lunch.
- Equipment rentalsBikes, kayaks and canoes available for rental.
For more information, visit Bras-du-Nord Valley.
Duchesnay Tourist Station
Just 45 minutes from Quebec City, the Station touristique Duchesnay is a vast domain in the heart of nature, offering a multitude of activities in summer and winter alike:
- Hiking and canoeingExplore the hiking trails or enjoy a canoe trip on the lake.
- Swimming and beachDuring the summer months, an equipped beach is available for safe swimming (5 $ per person for swimming and beach access).
- Cross-country skiing and snowshoeingIn winter, Duchesnay offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, with equipment rentals available on site. Access fees for cross-country ski trails are 12 per adult and 6 for childrenwhile equipment rentals range from 20 $ à 25 $ per day.
- Ice climbing (winter): For thrill-seekers, ice climbing is a unique activity (45 per person equipment included).
- AccommodationDuchesnay offers comfortable chalets and accommodations to extend your stay.
Duchesnay Labyrinth
Opposite the tourist resort, you’ll find a large open-air large open-air labyrintha family adventure game where young and old alike have to find their way through unexpected twists and turns. An ideal activity for the whole family!
- Price: 7 per personfree for children under 5.
Arbre En Arbre
The experience Arbre en Arbre offers an aerial treetop adventure. Climb suspension bridges, zip lines and other challenges in a thrilling activity for adventure lovers.
- Price: 29.95 for children and 39.95 for adults.
Practical information:
- AddressAddress: 140 Montée de l’Auberge, Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier, QC G3N 2Y6
- Opening hoursEvery day from 9am to 8pm
- Reservation: Recommended for certain activities 1-800-665-6527.
- AccessibilityTrails and some activities are accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- CateringA restaurant is available on site. It is also possible to bring a picnic lunch.
- Equipment rentalCanoes, kayaks, cross-country skis, snowshoes and climbing equipment are available for rental.
For more information, visit Station touristique Duchesnay.
Parc Naturel Régional De Portneuf
Le Portneuf Regional Nature Park1h15 from Quebec City, is the ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts looking to recharge their batteries in a natural setting. Among the activities on offer:
- CampingSpend the night in the heart of nature at one of the park’s campsites.
- Nautical activities Canoe and kayak rentals to explore the surrounding lakes (25 per day).
- HikingDiscover the local flora and fauna on our many hiking trails.
Practical information:
- Address3039 Rang Saguenay, Saint-Alban, QC G0A 3B0
- Opening hours8am to 7pm
- PricePark access from 7 per adult.
- ReservationMandatory for camping at 1-418-339-2452.
- AccessibilitySome parts of the park are accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- CateringPicnic area available. You can bring your own lunch.
- Equipment rentalCanoes and kayaks available for hire.
For more information, visit Parc naturel régional de Portneuf.
Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf
For cycling enthusiasts, the Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf offers 68 km of cycling trails through magnificent scenery.
Located about 50 minutes from Quebec City, this trail is ideal for a family outing or for more experienced cyclists.
Practical information:
- AddressDeparture from Rivière-à-Pierre, QC G0A 3A0
- Opening hoursMay to October, daily, 7am to 9pm
- PriceFree access to the slopes.
- CateringPicnic area available. Stop off at local restaurants along the way.
- Equipment rentalBring your own bike or rent one locally.
For more information, visit Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf.
Deschambault-Grondines
About 50 minutes from Quebec City, Deschambault-Grondines is one of Quebec’s most beautiful villages. This historic gem is renowned for its heritage buildings and bucolic landscapes.
- Moulin de La ChevrotièreThis mill offers a fascinating insight into the region’s industrial heritage and is open for guided tours.
- Ti-Oui Snack BarIf you’re looking for a typical Quebec poutine, be sure to stop by the Ti-Oui Snack Barlocated 45 minutes from Quebec City and close to Deschambault-Grondines. A must for fans of local cuisine.
Practical information:
- AddressAddress : 109 Chemin du Roy, Deschambault, QC G0A 1S0
- Opening hours10am to 5pm for the Mill, 11am to 9pm for the Ti-Oui Snack Bar.
- ReservationNot required.
- AccessibilityThe site is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- CateringTi-Oui Snack Bar: Bring your own lunch or enjoy local specialties like poutine at the Ti-Oui Snack Bar.
For more information, visit Deschambault-Grondines.
The Secret Valley
50 minutes from Quebec City, La Vallée Secrète is an interactive forest adventure ideal for families. Set off in search of gnomes and solve riddles as you discover an enchanting world.
Practical information:
- Address1076 Rang Saint-Achillée, Saint-Raymond, QC G3L 3A2
- Opening hoursEvery day from 9am to 5pm
- Price: 12 per child, 15 per adult.
- ReservationRecommended at 1-418-329-1233.
- AccessibilityThe course is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- CateringFood and beverages: Bring your own lunch or take advantage of the small snacks available on site.
For more information, visit The Secret Valley.
Portneuf is a region that perfectly combines nature, culture and family activities. Whether you want to venture out on the trails of the Vallée Bras-du-Nord, explore the breathtaking scenery of Duchesnay, or discover the heritage treasures of Deschambault-Grondines, this region has something for everyone.
Take the time to savor each experience and let yourself be seduced by the richness and diversity of Portneuf. For more getaway ideas, visit the BnB Quebec.
For more information and to book your stay in Quebec City, visit bnbquebec.com or book directly here.
Thank you for reading. If you have any questions, please call us at (418) 692-0316.
See you at the next blog!