Rimouski

Rimouski stretches along the southern shore of the Saint Lawrence River, spanning several districts from Le Bic to Pointe-au-Père. A waterfront path runs through the town, offering views across to Saint-Barnabé Island and connecting different neighborhoods along the coast.

The settlement began in 1696 when René Lepage de Sainte-Claire arrived and started building a community in what would become the Bas-Saint-Laurent region. This early French colonial foundation shaped the town's character and its connection to the river.

The annual book fair draws authors and readers together each year, continuing a tradition that has defined the town's literary identity for decades. Walking through the fair, you see locals engaged in discussions about stories and ideas that matter to them.

The town spreads across several districts, so using a car or public transport makes getting around easier between neighborhoods. Winter parking rules apply from November through April, so plan ahead if you visit during the colder months.

The lighthouse station at Pointe-au-Père holds exhibits about one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history—the wreck of the RMS Empress of Ireland. Few visitors realize this site preserves detailed stories about the people and moments connected to that catastrophic event.

Location: Rimouski-Neigette

Inception: 1696

Founders: René Lepage de Sainte-Claire

Shares border with: Saint-Fabien, Saint-Valérien, Saint-Narcisse-de-Rimouski, Saint-Marcellin, Saint-Anaclet-de-Lessard, Sainte-Luce

Address: Rimouski, QC, Canada

Website: http://ville.rimouski.qc.ca

GPS coordinates: 48.45000,-68.53333

Latest update: December 23, 2025 15:21