A gateway to the magnificent Saguenay Fjord National Park and the Monts Valin mountain ranges, Saguenay is perfectly positioned for outdoor adventurers to explore rivers, lakes, hiking trails and the Gulf of St Lawrence. Saguenay is home to its own alluring attractions, including engaging museums, a sprawling community park and a main dining and shopping strip.

Things to do

Nature enthusiasts are spoilt for choice in Saguenay, which is on the doorstep of Monts-Valin National Park. This sprawling national park offers trout fishing and canoeing in its lakes and rivers, hiking through the verdant forest and Nordic skiing during winter. Alternatively, head to Saguenay-St-Lawrence Marine Park or Saguenay Fjord National Park to see blue and beluga whales.

Discover more about the region’s fascinating history at the Air Defense Museum, which boasts nine military aircraft, including a Canadair Sabre and an Avro Canada CF-100 Canuck. Afterwards, head to the Museum of the Fjord to explore its kid-friendly exhibits on the Saguenay Fjord that include aquariums and touch tanks with native marine life.

Are you interested in the town’s traditional culture? Visit The Chicoutimi Pulperie - Regional Museum to admire ancient artefacts, including an old train, houses and photographs. It’s a short walk from Rosaire-Gauthier Park, a popular spot for picnics during summer and ice skating in winter.

Saguenay’s main shopping strip is home to vintage bookstores and one-of-a-kind boutiques, such as Boutique Maya & Inca and Librairie Les Bouquinistes. After shopping, duck into La Sandwicherie for freshly made sandwiches or La Cuisine for upscale French cuisine, wine and scotch.

Getting around

Saguenay is a 20-minute drive from Bagotville Airport and is connected to Montreal via regular VIA Rail Canada trains. While parts of Saguenay are easily explored on foot, you can also use taxis, public buses or a hire car to get around.