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La Malbaie is a town in Charlevoix, set where the Malbaie River flows into the St. Lawrence. It includes the former villages of Pointe-au-Pic and Cap-à-l'Aigle, and since the late nineteenth century it has been a fashionable summer resort, once known to wealthy American and Canadian visitors as Murray Bay. Mountains and the wide river frame every view.
The grand Manoir Richelieu, a château-style hotel with a casino next door, dominates the cliffs at Pointe-au-Pic. Nearby, the Musée de Charlevoix explores the region's art and folk culture, and the old church adds to a stroll through the resort's heritage streets. The Charlevoix astroblème centre explains the giant meteorite impact that shaped the landscape. In Cap-à-l'Aigle, lilac gardens bloom in late spring, and the private Jardins des Quatre-Vents open on select days. Craft heritage is on display at the Forge-menuiserie Cauchon, while Domaine Forget hosts a well-regarded summer music festival.
La Malbaie suits couples, music lovers and road trippers. The Route du Fleuve follows the river back toward Baie-Saint-Paul, and the dramatic canyon of Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park is a short drive inland. Summer and early fall are the peak seasons.
WiserMap travel guideLa Malbaie Quebec Manoir Richelieu and Hautes-Gorges HikesLa Malbaie travel guide: Manoir Richelieu, Cap-à-l'Aigle lilac gardens, Hautes-Gorges park, Charlevoix lamb and tourtière, stays, seasons and a three day plan.Read the guide
A garden in the village of Cap-à-l'Aigle with a large collection of lilacs, set on a slope with paths, a small stream and views toward the St. Lawrence. It is at its best in June, when the lilacs bloom and perfume the air. Check bloom times before you go, as the season is short.
A preserved village blacksmith and carpentry workshop from the early 20th century, near the mouth of the Malbaie River, with its forge, tools and machinery still in place. It shows the crafts that served the local farms and boats. Open in summer; it is a short stop near the town center.
A waterfall of about 30 meters tumbling down a rocky cliff in a wooded setting just outside La Malbaie, with short paths to viewpoints and a campground nearby. It is especially impressive in spring after the snowmelt. Wear shoes with grip, as the rocks near the falls can be slippery.
A family ski area in the hills behind La Malbaie with downhill runs, cross-country ski and snowshoe trails and views over the Charlevoix countryside. It is smaller and quieter than the big resorts. A good choice for beginners and families; check snow conditions and opening days before going.
A music and dance academy in Saint-Irénée, just west of La Malbaie, whose summer festival brings classical and jazz concerts to a concert hall with views over the river. Sunday musical brunches are popular. Book festival tickets ahead and arrive early to walk the sculpture garden.
A historic wooden house in the countryside of La Malbaie that once served as a clandestine drinking club, with hidden doors, secret passages and narrow staircases. Today it is a steakhouse and bar with music on summer evenings. Take the guided tour of the house before dinner, and reserve in high season.
A long-established cheese dairy in the Saint-Fidèle sector of La Malbaie, known for its cheddar, fresh curds and local cheeses sold in its shop. It is a classic stop for picnic supplies on the drive east along the river. Arrive in the morning for the freshest squeaky curds.
The wharf of Pointe-au-Pic, once a landing for the steamships that brought summer visitors to Charlevoix and now a port of call for cruise ships, with a promenade along the shore. It offers wide views of the river and the bay of La Malbaie. Walk it at sunset and watch for seabirds.
The main Catholic church of La Malbaie, a large stone church with twin spires facing the bay where the Malbaie River meets the St. Lawrence. Its interior has painted decoration and stained glass. Visit outside Mass times, and walk to the riverside nearby for views back toward the church.
A grand château-style hotel in Pointe-au-Pic, La Malbaie, overlooking the St. Lawrence, rebuilt in 1929 after a fire and long a resort for wealthy summer visitors. The Casino de Charlevoix is next door. Non-guests can walk the grounds and have a drink on the terrace.
A casino beside the Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu in Pointe-au-Pic, La Malbaie, with slot machines, table games, a restaurant and views over the St. Lawrence. It is one of only a few casinos in Quebec. Visitors must be 18 or older, and bringing ID is required at the entrance.
A regional museum in Pointe-au-Pic, La Malbaie, focused on the history, folk art and painting of Charlevoix, with a strong collection of local wood carving and rural crafts. Exhibitions change regularly. It is a short walk from the Manoir Richelieu along the shore road.
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