Natashquan

A tranquil haven shaped by stories, wind and the sea

A legendary destination in Côte-Nord, Natashquan was long accessible only by sea before being connected to the road network in 1996. Founded in 1855 by fishing families from the Îles-de-la-Madeleine, this iconic village takes its name from the Innu word nutashkuan, meaning “where you hunt black bears.” The birthplace of renowned poet and singer-songwriter Gilles Vigneault, the town has much to love, like its remarkably preserved built heritage, expansive sandy beaches with surprisingly temperate waters and rich traditions shared with the Nutashkuan Innu community in Pointe-Parent.

Flights to Natashquan

Activities not to be missed

The Destination Natashquan visitor centre

When you arrive, stop by this tourist information centre to familiarize yourself with the area and get tips to make the most of your stay. While you’re there, take a look at the wall of local resident photo portraits taken by Danish artist Anna Birgit.

Les Galets heritage site

Take the Promenade des Anciens, a boardwalk by the sea, to reach these famous sheds designated as historic monuments. A true village within a village perched on bedrock, the site features 12 red-and-white wooden cabins built starting in 1855. Once numbering 33 when Natashquan was the region’s busies...

Maisons Vigneault and the Old Schoolhouse

Visit the childhood home of Gilles Vigneault as well as his grandfather’s house—an essential stop to take in the maritime world that inspired the poet’s work. Nearby, the Old Schoolhouse, built in 1913, is the oldest school building in Minganie. Restored and converted into a museum, it offers a self...

Église Notre-Dame-de-l’Immaculée-Conception

Built starting in 1861, the Église Notre-Dame-de-l’Immaculée-Conception is one of the oldest buildings in Natashquan and the oldest place of worship in Minganie. This heritage church is well worth a visit for its unique hand-carved roof shaped like an overturned ship’s hull, crafted partly from timb...

Meeting the Nutashkuan Innu community

Just nearby, the Innu community offers cultural activities and authentic Indigenous crafts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to listen to stories shared by Elders and experience Innu-aimun culture through songs and drumming. To take part in workshops or arrange a guided tour, you can contact Tourisme Nu...

Watching sea life from the shore

While larger rorquals are more common further west in Côte-Nord, Natashquan’s coastline has great surprises in store right from the shore. Sometimes you can spot minke whales, porpoises or dolphins surfacing close to the beaches or at the mouth of the river. Grab your binoculars and scan the horizon...

Hiking and the wilderness

Follow the Le Pas du Portageur trail, an expansive 13 to 15 km loop along part of Petite Rivière Natashquan where you can take in forest landscapes and waterfalls, or simply stroll along the village boardwalks. Looking to cast a line? Contact the Natashquan River management organization (ZEC) to boo...

Local gems

Plan your trip

Fly to Natashquan from Québec City on a direct flight courtesy of Central Mountain Air (CMA).

Book online by clicking the link or get tips from a travel agent while gaining access to the lowest prices on parking at the airport.