Baie St-Paul (Summer)

On the north shore of the St. Lawrence River, the region of Charlevoix is formed by the majestic Laurentian mountain chain, much of which is covered with dense forest, racing streams and plunging waterfalls. Silver-spired churches provide dramatic contrast to the steep red-roofed houses in picture-perfect towns – including Baie-St-Paul, where the salmon-rich Gouffre River flows into the St. Lawrence. The lovely old town has long been a focal point for countless painters, photographers and writers. Artists such as A.Y. Jackson, Clarence Gagnon and Jean-Paul Lemieux all came here for inspiration, as you can see in much of their work. ...

On the north shore of the St. Lawrence River, the region of Charlevoix is formed by the majestic Laurentian mountain chain, much of which is covered with dense forest, racing streams and plunging waterfalls. Silver-spired churches provide dramatic contrast to the steep red-roofed houses in picture-perfect towns – including Baie-St-Paul, where the salmon-rich Gouffre River flows into the St. Lawrence. The lovely old town has long been a focal point for countless painters, photographers and writers. Artists such as A.Y. Jackson, Clarence Gagnon and Jean-Paul Lemieux all came here for inspiration, as you can see in much of their work. Baie-St-Paul’s houses date back more than 200 years, reflecting typical Québécois architecture with their steeply sloping roofs. Along the town’s narrow streets, old buildings have been converted into art galleries, stylish boutiques and charming cafés complete with outdoor terraces. With its fine selection of hostelries and restaurants, Baie-St-Paul is a grand spot to tarry a while, and a perfect base for exploring more of Charlevoix.

About the Expert

Joanna Ebbutt is the author or editor of three Insight Guides to Toronto and Canada, and coauthor of Off the Beaten Track: Western Canada. She has been writing about travel for three decades, including chasing the aurora borealis in Northern Ontario.