Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is much more than picturesque landscapes and outdoor adventures. At the heart of the region lies a rich and diverse spiritual heritage that attracts visitors in search of meaning and a deep connection with the environment around them. Spiritual and cultural tourism in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean offers the exploration of holy sites, the discovery of ancestral native traditions, pilgrimage sites and wellness experiences. Resourcing and tranquility are the order of the day.
On this page, we offer you a foretaste of places where you can immerse yourself in spirituality and discovery while being in complete harmony with nature.
Ermitage Saint-Antoine
Visit the Ermitage Saint-Antoine and discover its new exhibition on painter Guy Bruneau! An enchanting setting, an unrivalled welcome! Located just a few minutes from majestic Lac Saint-Jean, on a wooded estate bordered by lakes and mountains, Ermitage Saint-Antoine is the destination of choice to welcome you! L'Ermitage Saint-Antoine, a place to discover or rediscover!
Come and discover our new exhibition of never-before-seen artifacts from the Capuchin missions, complemented by an original presentation of paintings by Capuchin artist Guy Bruneau.
Cultural trail
Cultural trails are a different and unique way of discovering the history and heritage that surround us. Whether with a podcast, interpretive posters or a digital application, discover the region's heritage in a dynamic and enriching way. Some members even offer guided tours so that everyone can enjoy.
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L'Odyssée des BâtisseursAlma
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Corporation Hébert Village HistoriqueHébertville
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Tours aventure Fjord et MondeSaguenay (La Baie bor.)
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Centre d'histoire Arvida et Centre d'histoire Sir-William-PriceSaguenay (Jonquière bor.)+ 1 other coordinate
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Contact Nature - Okwari Le FjordSaguenay (La Baie bor.)+ 2 other contact details
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Le Croissant culturelSaguenay (Chicoutimi bor.)
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Le Musée de la Petite Maison BlancheSaguenay (Chicoutimi bor.)
Religious and spiritual tourism
Ever since our region was first settled, its spiritual and religious heritage has been evident in both the Lac-Saint-Jean and Saguenay regions. The many religious monuments dotted around the region will allow you to appreciate all the beauty that inhabits them. For nature-lovers looking to recharge their batteries over several days, discover our pilgrimage trails for an extraordinary experience.
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Ermitage Saint-AntoineLac-Bouchette
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Village historique de Val-JalbertChambord
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Parc national du Fjord-du-SaguenayRivière-Éternité+ 1 other coordinate
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Chapelle Saint-Cyriac de Lac-KénogamiSaguenay (Jonquière bor.)
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Sentier Notre-Dame-KapatakanLac-Bouchette
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Centre historique des Sœurs du Bon-ConseilSaguenay (Chicoutimi bor.)
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Parc régional des Grandes-Rivières du lac Saint-JeanDolbeau-Mistassini
The Heritage Harmony Circuit
Immerse yourself in the history of our region's builders through authentic and enriching experiences with The Heritage Harmony Circuit. Discover how our religious and spiritual heritage has shaped our regional identity, and how the past has become a source of inspiration for the present.
The Heritage Harmony Circuit is much more than a simple tourist itinerary; it's an invitation to discover the very soul of Saguenay-Lac Saint-Jean. Plan a visit or multi-day getaway in the region to discover all the Circuit has to offer!
Whether you choose to stay in a historic inn transformed into a place of rejuvenation, visit a heritage site, or enjoy an authentic experience during an outdoor activity, every stop on the circuit is a rewarding discovery.
Find out more about accommodation and places to visit by clicking on the dots on the map below, or see the full list below!
If you'd like a taste of the builders' stories you'll discover along the way, choose the category that interests you and consult the detailed descriptions below.
Heritage accomodations
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Saguenay-Lac Saint-Jean region by booking 3 nights' accommodation on the Circuit des Bâtisseurs. You'll receive a $50 Hello prepaid Visa card if you choose heritage accommodations, or $25 if you stay in classic accommodations.
Use this card to explore the Circuit's businesses, or to extend your stay in another participating accommodation.
Auberge Presbytère Mont Lac-Vert
Converted into an inn in 1986, visitors can still admire the religious objects, antique furniture and historic photos that bear witness to its passage.
Saint-Crème
Fredeau Duchesne succeeded in turning Saint-Marie church into a meeting place. The effervescence of the years when the parish priest reigned can still be felt today.
Auberge Le Saint-Alexis
By giving new life to the Saint-Alexis presbytery building, the presbytery has become the heritage and cultural symbol of the Grande-Baie area.
Discover the experience ➜
Saint-Antoine Hermitage
The Ermitage Saint-Antoine in Lac-Bouchette offers various activities such as retreats, masses and prayers to perpetuate and develop the hermitage's spiritual mission.
Village historique de Val-Jalbert
Val-Jalbert gives visitors the chance to get to know, respect and learn about those who forged the past, so they can better look to the future.
Discover the experience ➜
Classic accomodations |
Heritage sites and cultural attractions
Arvida Historic Center and Sir-William-Price Historic Center
Arvida has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada and a Heritage Site by the government.
Centre d’histoire et d’archéologie de la Métabetchouane
CHAM works as a physical extension and place of memory of Métabetchouane's past and present history.
Discover the experience ➜
Saint-Antoine Hermitage
The Saint-Antoine Hermitage in Lac-Bouchette offers various activities such as retreats, masses and prayers to perpetuate and develop the Hermitage's spiritual mission.
Mashteuiatsh Ilnu Museum
Discover a unique cultural experience at the Mashteuiatsh Ilnu Museum, where exhibits immerse you in the vibrant history and culture of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh.
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L'Odyssée des Bâtisseurs
Come and learn about the history of this impressive hydroelectric construction site, which was even dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world” in its day.
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Historic Village Val-Jalbert
Val-Jalbert gives visitors the chance to get to know, respect and learn about those who forged the past, so they can better look to the future.
Discover the experience ➜
Centre historique des Soeurs du Bon-Conseil
The Bon-Conseil sisters paved the way for generations of young boys and girls to enjoy a quality education.
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Saint-Cyriac chapel of Lac-Kénogami
The chapel recalls the history of the village of Saint-Cyriac. Celebrations and various artistic activities are still held here today.
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Moulin des Pionniers
Dive headfirst into a journey through time to discover a place where history and entertainment meet to appreciate the heritage of the region's pioneers.
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Louis-Hémon Museum
The inspiration behind Louis-Hémon's best-selling novel Maria Chapdelaine, this house is a testament to the cultural heritage interest of this famous location.
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Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay
The statue of Notre-Dame du Saguenay, which has contributed to the fame of the site where it stands, has become an important element of the Saguenay landscape thanks to its grandeur.
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Cultural and pilgrimage routes
Chemin pèlerin Monasteriorum
In 1941, Chocolaterie des Pères made its debut as a confectionery in the basement of the abbey church. This became the historic site of the village of Les Pères.
Sentier Notre-Dame-de-Kapatakan
The 215-kilometre Sentier Notre-Dame-Kapatakan follows part of the route taken by Father Hébert as he explored the Lac-Saint-Jean region.
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Roberval's Patrimonial Circuit
Take a stroll through downtown to discover the bronze circuit, representing the twelve characters who built Roberval through their estates and history.