Three days in Portneuf in the wintertime
By David C, October 29 2024
Halfway between Quebec City and Trois-Rivières, the region of Portneuf is an ideally located winter wonderland come the first snowflakes. For lovers of outdoor activities and culinary treats, three days in our beautiful region promises an adventure like no other! Here are our suggestions.
Day 1: Getaway in Vallée Bras-du-Nord
Vallée Bras-du-Nord is a magnificent natural area near Saint-Raymond offering multiple winter activities. Strap on your snowshoes and explore the all-level marked trails winding through snowy landscapes, taking in spectacular views of the forest, mountains and river. In winter, the Delaney Falls are the real star of the valley, with their particularly impressive icy robe.
You can also try your hand at fatbiking, an increasingly popular activity in the region. A vast network of trails guarantees a fabulous experience. Other activities such as backcountry skiing and via ferrata will delight all thrill-seekers!
To round off the day, a good meal is in order, and there’s no shortage of choice in Saint-Raymond, with Le Mundial, La Croquée, Le Nocturne, Sushi M et Cie and many others—like the Roquemont, a microbrewery, restaurant and hotel all in one! Other accommodation options include Villa Eco at the gateway to Vallée Bras-du-Nord, and Chalets Tourisma, which offers a variety of cottages in the surrounding area.
Day 2: Hiking in Parc naturel régional de Portneuf
Day two starts with a hike in Parc naturel régional de Portneuf. The gorge sector of the Sainte-Anne River is an ideal place to discover all the magic of nature in the wintertime, and the icy cliffs offer climbers direct access to the kingdom of the Snow Queen! If it’s cross-country skiing you’re looking for, head straight to the Portes de l’Enfer cross-country ski centre.
You can then spend the night in Parc naturel régional de Portneuf and choose from various accommodation options: chalets, ready-to-camp facilities and rustic cabins. In Saint-Casimir, in the heart of the village, you can opt for a room at Hôtel le Couvent, which is housed in a picturesque 19th-century stone building. Check out the Théâtre des Grands Bois’s calendar of events: several shows are on the program this winter!
Day 3: Tasty discoveries
The renowned Chemin du Roy needs no introduction! A living testimony to New France and the first roadway linking Quebec City to Montreal, this road is second to none with its beautiful village centres and landscapes along the St. Lawrence River.
Start your day with a leisurely stroll in Neuville’s Réserve naturelle du Marais-Léon-Provancher. Here, you can explore ecosystems ranging from marsh to forest to the St. Lawrence and take in the fresh air.
From east to west, you’ll find a host of foodies stops along the way. In Neuville, Chez Médé and Ferme Syldia farm stores are brimming with local produce. The Esprit de clocher microbrewery, in partnership with the Baldaquin restaurant, offers a delicious bistro menu with their beers. In Donnacona, Brasserie La Fosse serves up tasty dishes with local flavours and brewed-on-site beers. At La Shed Microbrewery, you can also discover delicious beers brewed on the premises along with refreshing cuisine in the most welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
In Cap-Santé, stop by Le p’tit patelin, a small alternative grocery store filled with local treasures. While you’re there, be sure to visit the village centre and take a walk along Vieux Chemin, a section of the former King’s Road (Chemin du Roy) renowned for its superb heritage homes. Next, head down the road to the Portneuf wharf, which stretches for more than one kilometre across the St. Lawrence River in the middle of the ice pack.
In Deschambault-Grondines, don’t miss out on gourmet spots like the bakery, the chocolate shop, Dinette du Cap and the general store. Fromagerie des Grondines is a must for cheese lovers. Take a guided tour to learn how their products are made and sample some local specialties!
Looking for a place to stay the night along the Chemin du Roy? Drop in at Demeure du Capitaine in Neuville or Auberge de l'Ouest in Deschambault!
In winter, the region of Portneuf offers the perfect combination of outdoor activities and delicious discoveries, for a both activity-filled and delectable stay. Whether you’re craving adventure or you just want to relax, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in the region! #PortneufInegalable