Tadoussac isn't one of the most well known tourist destinations in Canada, but it's certainly one of the coolest. This tiny village on the St. Lawrence River, known primarily for its whale watching, has far more to offer than its abundance of gigantic sea creatures. The town's funky yet historic atmosphere is just one of these five reasons why you're missing out if you've never been.
Nothing quite kicks you into relaxation mode like parking your vehicle and knowing you won't have to touch it for several days. The bohemian village of less than 1,000 residents is easy to explore from end to end on foot. Whether you stay at the iconic Hotel Tadoussac, which has become a symbol of the town, or one of many budget-friendly options just steps away (like Les Suites De L'anse or Hotel Sous La Croix), you'll enjoy easy access to shops, eateries, the sand, historic sites, and tours without ever having to locate your car keys.Tadoussac was an important village long before it became known for whale watching. The village was founded in 1600, and its location at the confluence of the Riviere Saguenay and St. Lawrence River made it the first and only seaport along the St. Lawrence for 30 years. Tadoussac was the center of fur trade between the First Nations peoples and the French by the late 17th century. However, it wasn't until 1855 that the Tadoussac village we know today was established near the site of the original settlement. Visitors can still explore the Petite Chapelle de Tadoussac, constructed between 1747 and 1750, the trading post of Pierre Chauvin, and the iconic Hotel Tadoussac, constructed to replace the town's first Victorian hotel built in 1864.
