L'Anse-Saint-Jean

L'Anse-Saint-Jean, a village in Quebec's Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, is a member of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Quebec, and for good reason. It rests upon a natural bay along the Saguenay Fjord, where the Saint-Jean River flows through the village. The village is characterized by its white-painted century homes and the dramatic backdrop of rock cliffs bordering the fjord.

Often described as a landscape painting brought to life, L'Anse-Saint-Jean offers a blend of natural splendor and authentic Québécois character. It serves as a gateway to the Saguenay Fjord National Park, providing ample opportunities for those who love the outdoors. From its historic covered bridge to sweeping fjord views, the village encourages a slower pace, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere and the surrounding wilderness.

## Early Settlement and Development L'Anse-Saint-Jean's history stretches back to 1668 when Jesuit Father Beaulieu established a mission and built the first chapel, wintering with Indigenous people. However, the harsh climate meant he only stayed for a year, though some Indigenous families later returned to live off hunting and fishing. The formal settlement of L'Anse-Saint-Jean began in 1838 with the arrival of the Société des Vingt-et-un, a group of lumber prospectors and investors from Charlevoix. They aimed to exploit the region's abundant forests, marking the beginning of colonization in the Saguenay region. Many of the early families hailed from Baie-Saint-Paul, Les Éboulements, and La Malbaie.

## Growth and Isolation The municipality of the canton of L'Anse-Saint-Jean was officially constituted in 1859. Between 1860 and 1880, the village saw the arrival of its first priest, the construction of a presbytery and the first schoolhouse, the opening of a postal service, and the initial construction of the wharf. For three-quarters of a century after its founding, isolation was a defining characteristic of L'Anse-Saint-Jean, with residents relying on agriculture in the summer and forestry, hunting, and fishing in the winter. The parish of Saint-Jean-Baptiste-de-l'Anse-Saint-Jean, initially a mission, was recognized in 1839 and canonically erected in 1932.

## Transition to Tourism and Modernity As the 20th century progressed, the Saguenay forest became more challenging to exploit. By the 1980s, L'Anse-Saint-Jean began to pivot towards tourism, a vocation that solidified by the mid-decade. In 1981, the name "L'Anse" was added to the municipal designation to avoid confusion with other "Saint-Jean" locations in Quebec. A significant event in the village's recent history was the devastating Saguenay Flood on July 19, 1996, which caused 17 million in material losses and disfigured the village. However, thanks to government aid, most traces of the catastrophe disappeared within a year. In a unique move to boost tourism post-flood, the village briefly declared itself a "municipal monarchy" in 1997. Since 1996, L'Anse-Saint-Jean has been twinned with Florac, France, and is recognized as one of Quebec's beautiful villages. The village's population was 1,301 in the 2021 Canadian Census.

L'Anse-Saint-Jean offers a range of attractions that highlight its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Pont du Faubourg, a covered wooden bridge, is a notable landmark. It once graced the Canadian one-thousand-dollar bill and today features artwork by regional artists displayed under waterproof plexiglass. You can capture a sweeping view of the bridge and the Saguenay Fjord from the $1000 Bill Vantage Point. The village itself, dating back to 1838, is ideal for a walk to admire its period homes and buildings. Look for the charming statues of Achille, a bearded figure in red, which mark points of interest.

For expansive vistas of the Saguenay Fjord, visit the Anse-de-Tabatière lookout. Another significant viewpoint is Notre-Dame du Saguenay, a statue overlooking the fjord from Cap Trinité in the Baie Éternité sector of Parc National du Fjord-du-Saguenay. The Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste is also notable for its architecture; the stone for its construction was sourced from the surrounding lands. For those interested in local crafts and flavors, explore the boutiques and restaurants along Rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste, which often feature locally sourced food.

L'Anse-Saint-Jean is a year-round destination, with each season offering distinct experiences. Summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities like sea kayaking, hiking, and boat tours on the fjord. The best light for fjord views is often in the summer mornings. Autumn brings a painting symposium in October and striking fall foliage, making it a beautiful time for scenic drives and walks. Winter transforms the village into a snowy playground, with opportunities for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, tubing, snowshoeing at Mont-Édouard, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and ice fishing. Saguenay Fjord National Park remains open year-round.

L'Anse-Saint-Jean is located about a 3.5-hour drive north of Québec City and roughly 6 hours north of Montréal. While the village does not have its own airport, Saguenay Bagotville (YBG) is approximately 36 miles away. Renting a car from Québec City is a common option for reaching the village. Once there, parking is available, particularly near the Covered Bridge du Faubourg. Public transportation options include a bus service from the Saguenay bus terminal to L'Anse-Saint-Jean, with a typical ride lasting around 45 minutes. Within the village, a free school bus shuttle operates in the summer, meeting the marine shuttle at the port. Booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended as L'Anse-Saint-Jean is a popular destination. The cost of living in L'Anse-Saint-Jean is slightly lower than the Quebec average.