The Magic of the Holidays in Saguenay

Spending Christmas in Saguenay means immersing yourself in a vibrant and enchanting region. Whether you’re seeking activities as a couple, with family, or with friends, Saguenay offers a wide range of festive experiences to make your stay a Beyond Compare experience.

Let Yourself Be Carried Away by the Holiday Spirit
During the holiday season, Saguenay dresses in its finest decorations and hosts an annual Christmas market: the European Christmas Market. Local products, handcrafted gifts, and gourmet treats abound. Stroll among the charming wooden chalets adorned with twinkling lights, sample holiday specialties, and marvel at the talent of regional artisans. A choir singing Christmas carols adds to the magical atmosphere. Children can meet Santa Claus while adults warm up with hot chocolate or mulled wine.

Experience Winter Magic in December
By the holidays, Saguenay is often blanketed in snow, creating a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Dog sledding is a perfect activity for all ages. Many companies offer guided excursions where you can learn to drive your sled while soaking in the region’s stunning snowy landscapes. Outdoor skating rinks are operational, and snowshoeing enthusiasts can explore breathtaking trails at Parc national des Monts-Valin.

Savor Local Gastronomy
Beyond its famous blueberries, Saguenay boasts a rich culinary culture. From chocolates and cheeses to fresh produce, craft beers, and gourmet pizzas, the region offers a feast for food lovers. While in Chicoutimi, we recommend visiting Boefish, where the annual Surf & Turf holiday menu offers an exceptional dining experience in a trendy setting inspired by New York and Athens. Indulge in fine meats, fresh seafood, and a world-class wine selection stored in a floor-to-ceiling cellar—perfect for a romantic culinary escape.

Unwind at the Spa
There’s nothing better than relaxing during the holidays. PAŪS Spa Experience Saguenay offers thermal baths, relaxing massages, luxurious face and body treatments, and manicure and pedicure services. Combine a massage or treatment with the thermal experience, and you’ll feel like you’ve reached paradise. The facilities include Scandinavian baths, Finnish saunas, hammams, and serene relaxation areas for an indulgent escape. While perfect for couples or friends, the spa is not open to children under 18.

Explore the Surroundings
Saguenay offers numerous activities, but it’s also the ideal starting point for exploring the “land of giants.” Between fjords and mountains, the snow-covered landscapes of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean are awe-inspiring. From OTL Gouverneur Saguenay, take a scenic drive to Baie des Ha! Ha!, Rivière-Éternité, Saint-Félix-d’Otis, or L’Anse-Saint-Jean for breathtaking views. Families can visit the Falardeau Zoo, where exotic animals like lions, zebras, and monkeys coexist with native boreal species.

Spending the holiday season in Saguenay is more than just a winter getaway, it’s an invitation to create magical moments. With activities ranging from outdoor adventures to relaxing escapes, every day becomes a new opportunity to celebrate the magic of the holidays. For unforgettable memories, immerse yourself in Saguenay’s unique Christmas charm by staying at OTL Gouverneur Saguenay.