Gaspé with your family: what to do during the construction vacations?

Laughter on the beach, footsteps on the trails, eyes wide with wonder at the museum... summer in Gaspé is an adventure for the whole family. And during the construction vacations, the region offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, games and discovery. Whether you're looking for some sweet time or a place to burn off too much energy, here's a complete guide to creating lasting memories, to the rhythm of the tides, the peaks and the salt wind.

Walking, exploring, climbing: family outings

Trails for little legs and big curiosity!

Forillon National Park's three new trails

Le Pic-bois, Le Ruisseau and Le Castor wind their way through the Gaspé forest. Newly developed, these trails offer more accessible routes, perfect for introducing young walkers to nature hiking.

The Path of Legends

A unique trail in the heart of the town, where each loop is named after a Gaspesian legend drawn from the tales of ethnologist Jean-Claude Dupont. Along the way, signs tell these stories inspired by local folklore, adding a touch of mystery and culture to your hike. And as an added bonus, a superb view of the bay and downtown awaits you.

The Enchanted Forest of L'Anse-à-Valleau

On this magical 2.5 km loop, fantastic characters reveal themselves along the way. It's a place where the imagination takes root, perfect for arousing children's curiosity and rekindling parents' explorer's spirit.

Le Sentier du Banc

Walk or cycle along the river, lulled by the salt wind and birdsong. This scenic trail winds along the coast in a peaceful, light-filled atmosphere. Perfect for picnicking by the water, birdwatching or simply enjoying the moment together.

Wonder and learn: two cultural outings to share

When curiosity gets the better of you, you go exploring... inside!

The Gaspésie Museum

Immerse yourself in the region's history through interactive exhibits, fascinating objects, archival photos and family-friendly areas.

Gespeg Micmac Interpretation Site

Discover the world of the Mi'gmaq with a village reconstruction, demonstrations of traditional skills and passionate guides. A lively, accessible and deeply enriching place.

Move and have fun: the best family playgrounds

Young and old alike can let off steam in the region's many parks and recreation centers. Here are a few stops you won't want to miss:

• L'Anse-à-Valleau: Charming playground in a natural setting.
• Rivière-au-Renard: Le Quai d'Amour offers sea views, games and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Cap-des-Rosiers: The leisure center welcomes children with modules and a sports field.
• Forillon National Park: Play areas and facilities in Petit-Gaspé, Penouille (at the end of the La Taïga trail) and at Camping Des-Rosiers, the ideal place to extend your hike with a fun break.
• Cap-aux-Os : Playground at the community center.
• Gaspé: Pumptrack and skatepark next to the bus stop, large playground at Haldimand, accessible modules and sea view.
• Douglastown: Recreational area near the community center, perfect for a break between activities.

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And to vary the pleasures: bonus activities not to be forgotten

When the sun is strong or you feel like slowing down.

The beaches

Whether sandy or pebbled, the region's beaches are nature's playgrounds. You can build castles, look for shells, chase the waves or lie back and soak up the sun. Haldimand, Cap-aux-Os, Douglastown... each beach has its own atmosphere, hidden treasures and memories to create with your feet in the water.

Swimming pool, wading pool and recreation center

To cool off on hot days (or simply burn off excess energy), head for the pool at the Petit-Gaspé recreation center in Forillon National Park. Perfect for families camping or just passing through!

The bike path along the bay

Get on your bikes for a gentle ride along Gaspé Bay. The trail runs alongside the water, with child-friendly terrain and several stops for birdwatching, picnicking or simply admiring the scenery. And to reward your efforts, you'll arrive at Haldimand beach, ideal for a well-deserved break.

Discover the region's lighthouses

Follow in the footsteps of the guardians of the sea! The Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse, the highest in Canada, is a must-see, with its breathtaking panorama of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. But other lighthouses and viewpoints dot the Gaspé coastline, making every stop a moment of wonder (and great family photos!).

La Maison Pixel - for gamers of all ages

Looking for an original indoor activity? Head for Maison Pixel, a playful museum dedicated to the world of video games. Here you'll find retro consoles, references to the cult Fallout universe and a unique atmosphere. Bonus: the on-site café offers desserts, a cereal bar and drinks to prolong the pleasure. A sure-fire hit with children and nostalgic adults alike.

Cap au large - 4D Experience

Embark on an immersive adventure in the heart of Rivière-au-Renard! Cap au large plunges you into the history of the fishermen, thanks to a gripping 4D experience. Wind, drizzle, movement: it's all there for you to experience the daily life of Gaspesian fishermen as if you were there. It's a captivating experience to be enjoyed from a sheltered spot... but with your heart at sea!

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The gourmet and eco-responsible snack, by Beige Farine

Family vacations are often synonymous with food cravings in the great outdoors. Why not take advantage of these breaks to do something for the planet?

Beige Farine, Gaspé's bulk grocery store, offers simple tips for waste-free snacking. Their watchwords: simplicity, pleasure and ecological awareness.

The zero-waste essentials: fresh fruit, crunchy vegetables with dip, chunks of cheese, yogurt in a reusable pot. It's all in the preparation!

Smart tip: stop off at a bulk grocery store (like Beige Farine!) to fill bags and containers with local nuts, dried fruit, candy or snacks.

The perfect explorer's kit: gourd, reusable coffee mug, dish, utensils, snack bag. With this, you're ready to tackle trails and canteens without creating waste.

And if you're looking for ready-made ideas, Beige Farine offers a few favorites to put in the bag:

• Chocolate pretzels,
• Soy chili lime sticks,
• Nature trail" nut mix.

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Take the opportunity to discover Gaspesian products and take home a useful (and tasty!) souvenir of your vacation.

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For a summer in Gaspé that will remain etched in the memories of the whole family

In Gaspé, family summer means adventure, freedom, fun... and lots of sand in your shoes. Whether you're just passing through or rediscovering your corner of the world, the region is full of activities to make memories together.

So get your snacks, swimsuits and binoculars ready, and let's get exploring!

👉 Want to find out even more about what to do in Gaspé with your family? Browse our tourism magazine to find suggestions for activities, accommodations and local favorites to experience with your family this summer: https://gaspepurplaisir.ca/magazine-pur-plaisir-2025/

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