After falling in love with the scenic beauty and charming locales of the Gaspé Peninsula during my first coast-to-coast EV road trip, I was eager to explore more of Quebec’s maritime region. This time, my journey led me to the stunning Côte-Nord, embarking on a fantastic road trip from Quebec City to Baie-Comeau with a scenic detour along the Saguenay River. This segment of my coast-to-coast adventure was one of my favorites, offering some of the most memorable stops, delicious eats, and breathtaking sights.
Join me as I recount this remarkable road trip, sharing tips, must-visit spots, and unique experiences that make the Côte-Nord an underrated road trip destination. I’ll provide detailed information on charging locations, charging times, costs, and more to ensure a smooth journey for EV drivers.
Whether you’re navigating the route with an electric vehicle or you’re simply seeking a new travel adventure, this Côte-Nord road trip aims to inspire your next journey.
What is Quebec’s Cote Nord?
Before diving into this Côte-Nord EV road trip report, let’s take a look at what makes the Quebec Côte-Nord region so special.
Stretching along the northern shore of the Saint Lawrence River, this vast and rugged area is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Highlights include the charming village of Tadoussac, famous for its whale watching opportunities, and the scenic Route 138, which offers stunning views of the river and access to quaint coastal towns. The region is also home to the Manic-5 Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in the world, which not only stands as an engineering marvel but also powers the electric vehicle for this journey. The city of Baie-Comeau offers a beautiful waterfront and cultural attractions. The Côte-Nord is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering a range of outdoor activities from hiking and kayaking to exploring the lush boreal forests.
Quebec Cote Nord EV Charging Network
Like the rest of the province, Quebec’s Côte-Nord is well-served with EV chargers, both from Circuit Électrique and at various hotel accommodations. A glance at PlugShare reveals a robust network of Level 2 (L2) and Level 3 (L3) charging stations stretching from Quebec City to Baie-Comeau and beyond.
This extensive charging infrastructure ensures that EV drivers can comfortably explore the region without range anxiety. Whether you’re stopping for a meal in Tadoussac, staying overnight in Baie-Comeau, or visiting the majestic Manic-5 Dam, you’ll find convenient charging options to keep your journey smooth and sustainable. The presence of these charging stations highlights Quebec’s commitment to promoting electric mobility and making EV travel accessible and enjoyable throughout the Côte-Nord region.
Cote Nord EV Road Trip Report
With the logistics and locations sorted, let’s dive into my 5-day Côte-Nord EV road trip. This journey includes a scenic detour to Chicoutimi and along the Saguenay River. Along the way, I’ll share recommended charging stops, optimal charging times, and must-see attractions, ensuring you have everything you need for an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1 – Quebec City to Saguenay
After three perfect days exploring Quebec City, I said au revoir and headed north on Highway 175 to Saguenay. Thanks to an excellent food tour, I ate my way through the old town, enjoyed coffee at cobblestone steetside cafes, and relaxed at the fantastic Hotel Château Laurier.
The hotel’s location was perfect for exploring Old Quebec, with its charming streets, historic sites, and vibrant culture just a short walk away. The best part? The Hotel Château Laurier had plenty of EV chargers in its parkade, ensuring I departed with a 90% charge and ready for the next leg of my journey.
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Detour to Jacques-Cartier National Park
On the way, I detoured into Jacques-Cartier National Park for a charge and a stretch. There are two L2 chargers at the visitor center, making it the perfect spot to set off for a quick bike ride. Along the trail that follows the Jacques-Cartier River, I encountered majestic scenes of baby deer crossing the river and even a giant porcupine munching on an afternoon snack.
For those looking to spend more time in the park, I hiked the Les Loups trail on my last visit and can highly recommend it for the stunning views from the summit. It is worth every bit of sweat, 100%. The park has powered campsites, making it an excellent place to stop a little longer if you choose. Whether you’re here for a brief respite or an extended stay, Jacques-Cartier National Park offers a beautiful and convenient charging stop on your journey.
The rest of the drive was incredibly scenic, with lush rolling hills and sparkling lakes dotting the landscape along Highway 175. I took my time, making plenty of stops to soak it in, arriving late in Saguenay. I enjoyed a few pints at the La Voie Maltée brewery paired with a great poutine. This trend would continue on this Cote Nord road trip.
Note: La Voie Maltée has two L2 chargers; however, I did not use them as my Saguenay Quebec hotel had chargers as well.
Saguenay quebec hotels with EV Charging
As mentioned, Quebec, in general, has excellent EV charging infrastructure. This includes many hotels with complementary L2 charging. Saguenay Quebec hotels with chargers include Hôtel Gouverneur Saguenay, La Saguenéenne Hôtel, and Hôtel Chicoutimi.
For my Cote Nord road trip, I opted to stay at the Le Montagnais Hôtel, which has a whopping 12 Tesla and J1772 chargers! Did I mention I love Quebec?
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The hotel itself is mid-range and perfectly comfortable for exploring the region. I spent the next few days biking and road-tripping around.
Day 2 – Exploring Chicoutimi and the Saguenay Region
My Cote Nord road trip was delayed by a day as I opted to spend some time exploring Chicoutimi and the Saguenay region. There is plenty to see and do in the area and ended up beging a great detour. My day began with a leisurely walk along the picturesque waterfront of Chicoutimi where I took in the river and the towering Saint-François-Xavier Cathedral.
La Petite Maison Blanche
The Little White House in Chicoutimi, Quebec, stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and history. This small, unassuming house gained national attention in 1996 when it miraculously survived the devastating Saguenay Flood, one of Canada’s most catastrophic natural disasters. As torrents of water swept through the region, destroying buildings and infrastructure, the Little White House stood firm against the raging floodwaters.
Its survival amidst the destruction turned it into a beacon of resilience and a poignant reminder of the community’s strength and endurance. Today, the Little White House is a cherished landmark, preserved as a historical site that tells the story of survival against all odds. Visitors can explore the house and learn about the dramatic events of the 1996 flood, gaining insight into the extraordinary tale of perseverance and hope that it represents.
La Pulperie de Chicoutimi
Just a short distance from the Little White House is the Pulp Museum, another gem of Chicoutimi that highlights the town’s rich industrial history. Housed in a former pulp mill, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s pivotal role in the pulp and paper industry. The mill, which once played a crucial role in the local economy, has been thoughtfully converted into a museum that preserves its industrial heritage while providing an engaging educational experience.
On my visit, the Pulp Museum featured a captivating exhibition dedicated to the works of Arthur Villeneuve, a renowned local painter famous for his vibrant, folk-art style depictions of Saguenay’s landscapes and culture. Villeneuve’s actual house, covered in his distinctive artwork, has been meticulously relocated and reconstructed inside the museum.
This unique exhibit allows visitors to step inside Villeneuve’s world and experience his art in the most intimate setting possible. The house, with its walls and ceilings adorned with Villeneuve’s colorful murals, provides a deeply personal insight into the artist’s life and creative vision.
After touring inside the museum, I hiked around the Pulp Mill remains which was the highlight of the day. It is a very cool site, but don’t just take my word for it, the Amazing Race Canada featured it as a pit stop on a recent season.
Pyramide des Ha! Ha!
A visit to nearby Grane-Baie was a perfect way to cap off my day. This scenic bay, known for its tranquil waters and views of the Saguenay fjords. It also features a peculiar sight, a pyramid made out of yield signs.
An intriguing piece of public art located in the heart of the city, this geometric sculpture adds a modern touch to the historical and natural landmarks of the region, providing a unique photo opportunity and a fitting end to a day of exploration.
Day 3 – Saguenay to Taddousac
Although the drive from Saguenay to Tadoussac is only 126 km, it offers an incredibly scenic route with a wealth of sights and activities. To fully appreciate the journey, I made sure to allocate plenty of time to enjoy the landscapes and stops along the way. The route follows the Saguenay River, showcasing the stunning freshwater fjords that define this region.
I started my day with an 80% charge from my Saguenay hotel, which was more than sufficient for the drive. After a final drive through Chicoutimi, I crossed the Saguenay River and headed east. Following advice from Cote Nord tourism, I took the north side of the river, known for its breathtaking views. Spoiler alert: the scenic route did not disappoint.
Saguenay Fjord National Park
After a quick stop at Chez Roger Boulangerie where I picked up an on-brand maple pastry for the road, I made my way to Saguenay Fjord National Park. The park is renowned for its several trails, but the Halte du Béluga is one of the most popular. This trail leads to a lookout point where you can spot whales from the shore!
The Halte du Béluga is 7 km and relatively accessible. Since I had my bike, I covered the distance quickly, which left me more time to search for wildlife. Although I didn’t spot any whales during my visit, the park’s information board lists daily sightings, providing ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Exploring Tadoussac
Arriving in Tadoussac in the afternoon allowed me plenty of time to explore this picturesque and charming town, which marks the beginning of the Côte-Nord region. My first stop was a stroll along the beachfront boardwalk, where I admired the historic Tadoussac Chapel, the renowned Tadoussac Hotel, and the Chauvin Trading Post.
Next, I hiked around the Sentier de la Pointe-de-l’Islet, taking in the misty views as boats disappeared into the fog off the shore. At the end of the trail, I visited the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre, which offers a fascinating look at the diverse marine life resulting from the confluence of the Saint Lawrence and Saguenay Rivers.
To round off the day, I grabbed dinner and drinks at the Microbrasserie Tadoussac. They have a great selection of local beers and hearty dishes, making it the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.
Tadoussac Hotels with EV Charging
As of posting this, there are no Tadoussac hotels with chargers. That said there are L2 and L3 fast chargers next to the tourism office and a short walk away from the iconic Hotel Tadoussac.
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Day 4 – Tadoussac to Baie-Comeau
I took a little bit too much time admiring the town as my time exploring the Tadoussac Sandy Dunes was cut short by a massive storm that rolled in. Still, I managed to capture some stunning drone footage of the dunes before the rain began.
The drive to Baie-Comeau was incredibly scenic, offering plenty of worthwhile stops along the way. My first stop was the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre, a Parks Canada site. Here, I explored the historic lighthouse and learned about the lighthouse keepers’ role in guiding ships safely along the rugged coast. The 375-meter Harbour Porpoise Trail led me to a beautiful rocky shoreline and an observation hut, perfect for whale-watching. Although I didn’t spot any whales here, my luck was about to change.
Continuing my Cote Nord road trip, I stopped at Longue-Rive, where a stunning waterfall and suspension bridge awaited. Conveniently, an L2 charger was available in the parking lot, allowing me to recharge both my car and myself. After a quick picnic and some time enjoying the natural beauty, I hit the road again.
As I drove along the Saint Lawrence, my next stop was Portneuf-sur-Mer, known for its beautiful sandy beach. Initially, I planned to skip the whale-watching hike up to the observation deck due to my previous lack of success. However, as I was heading back to my car, a flash of white caught my eye in the distance. I soon realized it was a pod of belugas swimming just offshore. Mesmerized, I spent about 30 minutes watching these magnificent creatures. It was a magical experience that made the entire trip worthwhile.
Arriving in Baie-Comeau in the evening, I celebrated the successful journey with a pint at Saint-Pancrace microbrewery. To top it off, I indulged in the best poutine of my trip. Given the amount of poutine consumed throughout my journey, this was high praise indeed.
Baie-Comeau Hotels with EV Charging
The Hôtel le Manoir is the perfect place to call home in Baie-Comeau, thanks to its riverside location and stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. It also features an L2 EV charger.
Unfortunately, the charger was already in use by the time I arrived. Despite this, I had enough battery to explore the area the following day. However, I decided to plug into a 15-amp outlet overnight to ensure I had a buffer.
The hotel itself is quite charming, with comfortable rooms and friendly staff. Its location is ideal for anyone wanting to take in the beautiful riverside scenery or enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront. In addition, the proximity to local attractions made it a convenient base for exploring Baie-Comeau and its surroundings. The combination of great views, comfortable accommodations, and the added convenience of an EV charger made Hôtel le Manoir Baie-Comeau an excellent choice for my stay.
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Day 5 – Exploring Baie-Comeau and Beyond
I was up early the following day for a bit of an adrenaline rush. After a delightful breakfast of crepes and fresh fruit at the hotel, I headed 20 km down the road to meet up with Attitude Nordique for a rope bridge trek. Although the fog had rolled in and obscured the views, it added an eerie sense of adventure.
The rope bridges took me alongside a waterfall, 50 meters above the Saint Lawrence, culminating in a zipline crossing right in front of the falls. It was an exhilarating experience and one I highly recommend to anyone visiting the region.
With my blood pumping from the adventure, I returned to Baie-Comeau and biked around some of the city’s trails before heading to the Beer Festival of Baie-Comeau, conveniently located next to the Hôtel le Manoir.
The beer festival was much bigger than expected, with a huge stage featuring incredible musicians. I spent the evening mingling with locals and sampling a variety of beers from the region, making for a perfect end to a thrilling day.
Daniel-Johnson Manic-5 Dam Road Trip
One detour I regret not taking was a visit to the massive Manic-5 Dam. This engineering marvel plays a crucial role in powering the region, including my EV journey, and I wish I had paid my respects. However, at 214 km away, it is a solid day trip from Baie-Comeau and would have cut into my other activities. Of course, there are EV chargers at the dam, making it accessible for electric vehicles. Next time, I will definitely make the trip to see this impressive structure in person.
Day 6 – Baie-Comeau to Matane
My adventure through the Quebec Maritime region wasn’t over yet. After a fulfilling stay in Baie-Comeau, I said goodbye to the Cote Nord and set off towards Godbout to catch the ferry across the Saint Lawrence River to Matane.
From Matane, my journey would continue towards Halifax. For those looking for road trip suggestions from Matane onwards, be sure to check out my detailed post on traveling around the Gaspé Peninsula, my first EV road trip experience. It’s an amazing route with breathtaking views and unique stops that I can’t recommend enough.
For those looking for suggestions on the Gaspe Peninsula, stay tuned for my upcoming Quebec City to Halifax road trip report, where I’ll share detailed charging stops and tips to make the most of your EV journey.
Wrapping Up This Cote Nord Road Trip
My road trip from Quebec City to Baie-Comeau was nothing short of spectacular. The Quebec Côte-Nord region offered an unforgettable adventure with its lush landscapes, vibrant towns, and welcoming communities. From the historic charm of Quebec City to the scenic beauty along Highway 138, every stop brought new discoveries and experiences. At just over $5.00 (not counting hotel charging stays) it’s also incredibly affordable in an EV.
A detour exploring Chicoutimi and the Saguenay region provided a perfect blend of natural beauty and culture. Seeing belugas off the coast and traversing the rope bridge trek near Baie-Comeau added a thrilling touch to the journey, while the beer festival offered a taste of local hospitality I won’t soon forget.
For EV travelers, this route is well-supported with charging options, making it convenient and enjoyable. Whether you’re an electric vehicle enthusiast or simply seeking a new travel adventure, the Côte-Nord road trip offers something for everyone. Stay tuned for my upcoming Quebec City to Halifax road trip report, where I’ll share more insights, charging stops, and sightseeing suggestions to inspire your next journey.
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