Excursion La baie discovery on foot tour at Saguenay

Discover La Baie's local crafts, culture and historical heritage by foot on this 2.5-hour walking excursion. Nestled in a unique setting that offers breath-taking views on the Saguenay Fjord, walk and learn about local crafts, culture and the historical heritage of La Baie. Through this unique experience, your guide will reveal the best kept secrets of this harbour village.

About La Baie

Located on the bank of the Ha! Ha! Bay, La Baie was the first colony built in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region when the pioneers arrived in 1838). The depth of the banks of the Ha! Ha! Bay's waterways facilitated the rapid development of the region's largest harbour facilities. (The first commercial wharf of the region for the transport of goods was built around 1860 and) the railways were built in 1910. Once inhabited by Saguenay's nomadic Innu tribes, La Baie and its Ha! Ha! Bay was in the eighteen century a commercial route used by the Hudson's Bay Company's fur traders. During the nineteenth and twentieth century, logging and the pulp and paper mills have been the main sources of socio-economic development.

Local Artisan Experience & Demo

Depart the pier for a short walk that will take you to a Studio-Boutique of a local Textile craft artisan. You will view a short demonstration and learn how this artist creates fashion accessories and decorations. Your next stop will be at an art gallery where an art specialist will share local artist's work and craft techniques. Lastly, visit a soap workshop greeted by the artisans amid the aromas and various fragrances filling the air. Here you will learn a hands-on the basics of making goat milk soap.

La Chapelle Art Room

Last stop will be made for a unique gastronomic experience at La Chapelle Art Room in the Auberge des 21. Sit down on authentic church pews from Saint-Édouard Church and indulge in a culinary pause, you will be treated to a delightful honeyberry pie hand-picked by their chef and accompanied by refreshing tea. Enjoy the stunning fjord views. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere while local art adorns the walls, telling the story of Saguenay's vibrant culture. It's a journey through Saguenay's soul, connecting you with its land and people.

Experience La Chapelle Art Room for a memorable treat while appreciating a stunning view of the fjord.

Return to the ship, stroll along the shores to discover Mars Park. The mountains surrounding the bay blaze an unforgettable view from the fjord.  

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: La Baie, Ha! Ha! Bay, Studio-Boutique with demo, Soap workshop with demo, Art gallery, homemade blueberry pie with ice cream and tea.

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1609 metres (1 mile) over paved but sometimes inclined streets. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend guests to wear weather appropriate clothing including warm layers and comfortable walking shoes, and bring camera, hat, sunglasses and bottle of water from the ship.