Île aux Lièvres

Eight kilometers off Rivière-du-Loup lies Île aux Lièvres, 13 km long and 1.5 km wide. Protected by the Duvetnor company, founded in 1979 by a group of biologists, the island was opened to the public in 1989. The terrain comprises several wooded areas, meadows, beaches and escarpments. On the north shore, the highest of the escarpments, 40 metres high, offers a magnificent view of Charlevoix and its mountains. Marine life can be observed, including whales and porpoises. To the west, you can contemplate the immense expanse of the estuary. Controlled use of the site ensures that the 45 km of hiking trails are in good condition. Access to areas on the island’s periphery must be planned according to the tide, which submerges certain trails when the water level rises.

Many bird species can be observed, including great blue heron, black guillemot, razorbill and common eider. Migratory species such as geese and black ducks, warblers and raptors such as golden eagles and peregrine falcons are also present. The wild flora varies from place to place. There are lichens (on the garden path), rosehips (along the shoreline) and meadows covered with sea parsley and potentilla (on the eastern tip). Hares, which have long occupied the island, have carved bonsai-like spruce trees on the garden path.

To get there, a boat shuttles daily between the tip of Rivière-du-Loup and the island, a journey of around 30 minutes. Stays last from one to six nights.

Activities

A total of 15 trails criss-cross the island, ranging in difficulty from beginner to advanced. The sentier de la Mer follows the river to its eastern end, where you may spot beluga whales or grey and harbour seals. Located on the 40-metre escarpment on the north side, the cornice trail also offers beluga and minke whale sightings. Several boat cruises are also available. Near the arrival point, an interpretation kiosk provides information on the island’s wildlife and history.

Hosting

The 19 camping pitches are spread over four different sites. The first is close to the reception and the other three are between 3 and 12 km away. You can choose one of the 4 maisonettes overlooking the river. Each can accommodate 4 to 6 people; fully furnished, with kitchenette and bathroom with shower. Auberge du Lièvre offers 6 double-occupancy rooms with private bathrooms. Its dining room offers classic, tasty cuisine and a lunchbox for long hikes. The restaurant, Le Café de la Grande Course, offers beverages, sandwiches, soups, sanitary items and more.