MATANE

The industrial and tourist city of Matane is sure to please you with its maritime treasures and the warm welcome of its inhabitants. It is situated at the mouth of the Matane River on the Gaspé Peninsula. 

The river was first named “Matane” by explorer Samuel de Champlain in 1603, possibly in reference to a Mi’kmaq word meaning "beaver pond." This river long served as a route for indigenous people to reach Baie des Chaleurs. 

The tourist information centre is housed in the former Matane lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. 

The city is also known for its excellent Nordic shrimp and large wind farm.

Salmon run observation centre

Here you will have the chance to witness the migration of Atlantic salmon returning to their native river to spawn. The migratory route has been enhanced to include two pools with glass windows, through which visitors can observe these fascinating fish. The observation station also features an exhibition on the history of the bridges and dams of the Matane River as well as on sport fishing. Allow an hour for the visit.

"La Couleur de la Gaspésie" exhibition by Claude Picher

Claude Picher (1927-1998) was a renowned Quebec painter who decided at the end of his career to paint Gaspésie, a part of Québec he particularly appreciated. He donated 100 paintings to the City of Matane and it is these 100 paintings that form the "La Couleur de la Gaspésie" collection currently managed by the Matane History and Genealogy Society. The artist wanted to leave a legacy to his adopted land.

NEARBY

Mitis River Park

Discover the different ecosystems of the Mitis River Park by exploring the park’s 8 short hiking trails. The visitor centre also houses the "Jewels of the ocean" exhibition, featuring more than 1,500 species of shells and corals from around the world. Other exhibitions to come. In 2018, two rooms were converted into an art gallery to house works by local artists.

Métis Gardens

From 1926 to 1958, Elsie Reford worked on converting her fishing camp near the Métis River into gardens. The Métis Gardens is now a National Historic Site of Canada. You will see nearly 3,000 species of plants, spread over fifteen gardens. There are also exhibitions, some of which can be visited virtually on the website.

You can also attend the International Garden Festival, the largest contemporary garden festival in North America. It takes place on a site adjacent to the historic gardens.

Fairy Cave Trails

This former Mi’kmaq site is well known in the region as a secret meeting place and a party site. It is nestled in the heart of an unspoiled forest and provides access to the Blanche River canyon, a waterfall and a rocky cave dating back more than 500 million years. The 4 short Fairy Cave trails, totalling 8 km, provide an opportunity to explore this rich natural site. Interpretive panels will guide you along the way. Admission is free.

Matane wildlife reserve

The Matane Wildlife Reserve, which is part of the Sépaq parks network, lies at the beginning of the Chic-Chocs mountain range. The reserve is home to over 4,000 moose! The region’s many mudflats natural mineral springs that gush out of the ground make it an exceptional habitat for moose.

Guided observation activities are available for visitors who would like to find out more about this iconic animal. The park also offers several beautiful hikes. The Mont Blanc Trail and the Appalachian Trail allow hikers to admire incomparable panoramas from mountain peaks almost 1,000 meters high.