Practical Ideas for Travelling with a Baby in Gaspésie
Parks, boardwalks and beaches to stretch your legs, practical accommodations and picnics: here are some suggestions to make your trip to Gaspésie with a young child easier!
Parks
Does your child need to expend energy? Keep in mind that every city or town has a park or schoolyard with green space, playground equipment or trails that will make your child happy!
For starters, you will find a park at the tourist information bureau in Mont-Joli and by the seaside in Saint-Ulric. In Matane, near the river of the same name, Parc des Îles is a beautiful green space in the heart of downtown where you will find a water play area, beach, trails, play modules, etc.
In Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, Parc Multi-Sports, near the Sainte-Anne River and close to the beach, offers short trails and an observation tower. By walking along the river on the boardwalk (which is lit in the evening), you will reach Parc du Petit-Bois, where you will find a colourful playground for young children, a picnic area and a marked trail.
In the heart of the village of Percé, play modules offer breathtaking views of Percé Rock. In Grande-Rivière, kids can enjoy a park with a maritime theme featuring a giant fish and play equipment in the shape of a boat.
The municipal park in Carleton-sur-Mer has several play modules, as does the campground. Both are near the bike path and the sea.
In Amqui, at Parc Pierre-et-Maurice-Gagné along the Matapédia River, you will find a water play area, green space, play modules and access to the bike path.
Percé. Photo: Mathieu Dupuis
Beaches
Various fine-sand and pebble beaches can be found all around the Gaspé Peninsula, each with its own charm and treasures. Young children can enjoy building sandcastles on the beach, collecting shells and even going for a dip!
Penouille. Photo: Mathieu Dupuis
Stroller rides
Bike paths are great places to go for a walk or run with a stroller. Many municipalities in Gaspésie have bike paths, including Matane, Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, Percé, Chandler, Bonaventure and Carleton-sur-Mer.
Where to eat and stay
Renting a cottage or motel with a kitchenette can be an easy and affordable option for families. You will have more space and can prepare your own meals or snacks. Use the “Unit with kitchenette” filter on our website in the “Accommodations” section to locate these establishments. Camping can also a great experience for families!
Along the way, you can stop at public markets and farm stands to purchase fresh produce to enjoy as a snack or during a picnic. Some places will even allow you to pick your own. For a quick meal or a refreshing ice cream on the road, there are many snack bars all around the peninsula.
Percé. Photo: Tourisme Gaspésie
Where to stop along the way
Before embarking on a tour of the Gaspé Peninsula with young children, you will want to plan your itinerary to make sure you don’t spend too much time in the car every day. You can also choose to stay in one location and spend your vacation exploring the surrounding area. Throughout your trip, the tourist information offices in the region are great places to stop for a break, pick up local information and use the washroom!
Matane Lighthouse. Photo: Tourisme Gaspésie
With all these suggestions that will appeal to the whole family, you're sure to enjoy a great vacation in Gaspésie with your little one!
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