Often people ask me which the most beautiful ride is to do. It is difficult to answer because each region is gorgeous and different.
Sometimes, the weather and time constraints can make it more challenging to plan a trip.
However, I would like to share with our readers one of my experiences in the winter of 2019. In my plans, I wanted to leave for three days to see a multitude of different landscapes in a minimum amount of time. As we all know, the Gaspé Peninsula offers these possibilities. Indeed, the mountains of the peninsula, as well as the water, make it, without a doubt, the destination of destinations.
I left Drummondville at two o’clock in the morning on March 10, and such a trip requires energy. Still, I consider it doable and realistic.
My goal on the first day was to go by truck to Les Méchins, where there is a municipal parking lot that accepts trailers, get on my snowmobile and then cross the peninsula to Gaspé via Murdochville. A 600 km truck ride was waiting for me plus a 357 km snowmobile ride for the first day.
So, I was able to take advantage of the long sunny days in March as well as a milder temperature. Once on my snowmobile, the scenery is breathtaking, and the trails are deserted. The air is pure, and you can feel and observe that nature is at its peak.
On the way to Murdochville, the ride offers two stopping places.The Relais St-Paulin and La Cache where it is possible to get gas. However, it is always a good idea to find out about opening hours.
A stop in Murdochville is necessary before heading back to Gaspé. The Copper Hotel is a welcoming and comforting place where it is pleasant to have a good meal.
Afterward, 140 km of pure happiness awaits you before reaching Gaspé. During my stay, I slept one night at the Plante Hotel complex. This easily accessible establishment will surely satisfy you with its many services. Out of its 42 renovated rooms, you will find 21 additional rooms entirely new. Located in the heart of Gaspé, a breathtaking view of the bay awaits you. The hotel has recently been equipped with an indoor swimming pool, a spa, a gym, and a terrace. Also, the proximity of services makes this cozy complex a central location to visit the town.
On my second day, I wanted to do less than 300 km and still take the time to make frequent stops to experience the Gaspé Peninsula. To do so, I decided to make the loop at the end of the peninsula. This chosen route took me to Percé, where access to this small town is easy. The view is spectacular, and the trails are wide and safe. In front of this vast territory, you must choose where to stop. The refuges are located at respectable distances where it is always a good idea to make a stop to rest and plan the next miles to cover. It is also essential to plan for refueling stops, and the option of a spare tank can be handy and reassuring in this region.
This second day ended at the Auberge le Caribou in the municipality of Rivière-au-Renard, which is known as the fishing capital. This place, which seems remote, is modern and alive. The resto-pub La Révolte of the auberge is a must to prove my point. You eat very well, and the staff is welcoming, the atmosphere is relaxed and trendy at the same time. It’s worth the trip if you come by.
As a third and last day, I came back by the north, where a 344 km was waiting for me (photo below) to return to my starting point Les Méchins. On the way, I recommend a stop at the Lac Rond refuge and relay of the MRC de la Côte de Gaspé. Located on the trail, this rustic cottage will seduce you with its simplicity. A refueling, meal, and gas break at Grande-Vallée is a must where you can travel the 190 km to St-Anne-des-Monts where you can refuel again and then leave for Les Méchins which is 78 km away.
As you can see, this is a winter marathon in the distance. However, by taking an extra day or two, it is possible to make this trip, which is a postcard destination. You will then be able to make several other stops and enjoy the kindness and courtesy of the Gaspesians.
