Payless Car Hire
Gaspé

On arrival at Gaspé Airport (YGP), collecting your Payless hire car is straightforward and designed for traveller convenience. After you disembark and collect your luggage at baggage reclaim, proceed into the main terminal building. Car hire desks are clearly marked with overhead signs. The Payless desk is located within this area, so you can complete the paperwork and pick up your keys without having to leave the airport.

For a late arrival in Gaspé, a few key considerations will help ensure a smooth start to your trip. It’s wise to confirm the opening hours of the hire desk at Gaspé Airport in advance to make sure they align with your scheduled landing. Driving unfamiliar rural roads after dark can be challenging, so have your hotel address pre-loaded into a GPS or an offline maps app. This preparation lets you transition efficiently from the airport to your accommodation, minimising stress and ensuring a safe arrival.

The drive from Gaspé Airport to the town centre is simple and very scenic. On leaving the airport you will soon join Route 132, the main road that circles the peninsula. Follow signs for "Gaspé Centre-Ville" (downtown). This road, also known as Boulevard de Gaspé, runs along the waterfront into the heart of town. The route is well signed, so a first drive is usually stress-free.

To fully appreciate the Gaspé Peninsula without feeling rushed, it’s best to allow five to seven days for a complete loop starting from Gaspé. While the drive can be done in less time, this period allows for a comfortable pace with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing. You’ll have time to explore Forillon National Park, spend a day in Percé and visit charming villages along both the north and south coasts. A relaxed schedule ensures the trip is about the journey as well as the destination.

The town of Gaspé itself makes an excellent and practical base for exploring Forillon National Park with a hire car. Its location provides convenient access to both the park’s north and south sectors, which host different trailheads and attractions. Staying in Gaspé means you’re only a short drive from the park entrances while also having access to more amenities like restaurants, supermarkets and petrol stations. That proximity and convenience make it an ideal hub for day trips into the park.

Many of Forillon National Park’s most striking sites are very accessible by car. The viewpoints at Cap-Bon-Ami and the trailheads around Grande-Grave are popular and have dedicated car parks a short walk from the main attractions. During the peak months of July and August these car parks can fill quickly, especially between mid-morning and mid-afternoon. To secure a space without hassle, it’s highly recommended to visit earlier in the morning.

Planning a sunrise or sunset visit in Forillon needs a little preparation to be memorable. It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the route to your chosen viewpoint, such as Cap Bon-Ami, during daylight first. Allow extra travel time for driving in low light and be especially vigilant for wildlife, which is more active at dawn and dusk. Parking is generally not a problem at these times, but arriving early will secure a good spot and give you time to walk to the viewing area.

A day trip from Gaspé to Percé is both straightforward and one of the region’s most rewarding excursions. The drive itself is a highlight, following the scenic Route 132 south along the coast for about an hour. To make the most of your day, plan to leave Gaspé in the morning so you arrive in Percé with plenty of daylight to view Rocher Percé and possibly take a boat trip. This timing also makes parking easier and allows a relaxed return to Gaspé before dark.

In Percé, parking is concentrated in several municipal and private car parks close to the waterfront and the main shopping street. These are well signed and provide the most convenient access to the wharf for boat tours and the best views of Rocher Percé. During the peak summer months of July and August these car parks can fill remarkably fast, often reaching capacity by mid-morning. To avoid searching for a space, it’s strongly advised to arrive early in the day.

For a boat trip to Bonaventure Island, plan an early start from Gaspé to secure a good parking spot in Percé. The drive is scenic and takes about one hour south on Route 132. On arrival in Percé, head straight to one of the main paid car parks near the wharf, as you’ll be leaving your car for several hours. After parking, walk to the ticket kiosks to buy your boat tour passes for a smooth, well-organised excursion.

The drive from Gaspé to Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, the gateway to Parc national de la Gaspésie, typically takes around two to two-and-a-half hours. The most straightforward route is along Highway 132 westwards along the northern coast of the peninsula. This scenic drive follows the St Lawrence shoreline and passes through several small villages. The road is well maintained and clearly signed, making for a direct and enjoyable journey to the mountains.

When planning a long driving day on the Gaspé Peninsula, it’s sensible to be proactive about fuel and food. Petrol stations and full-service supermarkets are mainly located in the larger towns such as Gaspé, Percé and Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. The stretches between those towns can have limited services, so it’s best to fill up and stock up on snacks and water whenever you have the chance. This prevents any worry about running low on fuel or supplies in more remote areas.

Yes — expect intermittent or no mobile signal in certain parts of the Gaspé Peninsula, particularly inside the national parks and on more remote coastal sections. To navigate smoothly, download maps for offline use to your phone before you set off. Most popular navigation apps offer this feature. An offline map ensures you can confidently find trailheads, viewpoints and your next destination without relying on a live data connection.

For a typical Gaspé Peninsula itinerary, a standard saloon or a compact SUV offers a good balance of comfort and efficiency. The main roads, including Route 132, are well paved and suitable for any vehicle type. A compact SUV gives slightly higher ground clearance and a better vantage point for enjoying the scenery, which can be a nice bonus. Ultimately, choose based on comfort and the space you need for passengers and kit; specialised capabilities are generally unnecessary.

When travelling with outdoor kit, prioritising boot space is essential for a comfortable journey. For two adults with walking rucksacks, a coolbox and other equipment, a compact or mid-size SUV is an excellent choice. This class of vehicle provides ample boot space to store your gear securely, keeping it separate from the passenger cabin. That ensures you have plenty of room to relax on long scenic drives without feeling cramped by luggage and supplies.

For drivers used to straight, multi-lane motorways, the Gaspé coastal roads offer a different but manageable experience. The main highway, Route 132, is well maintained but features frequent bends, rolling hills and some sections with narrow verges beside cliffs. The key is to adjust your driving style by slowing down, staying alert and focusing on the road. Many find this style of driving more enjoyable and scenic, encouraging a relaxed pace ideal for a road trip.

Visitors in Gaspésie often encounter a few common surprises that are easy to manage with awareness. Expect frequent speed limit changes as you enter and leave the many small coastal villages. Wildlife, especially moose and deer, can appear on the road with little warning, particularly at dawn and dusk, so constant vigilance is essential. Seasonal roadworks are common, so it’s wise to build a little extra time into your schedule for potential delays.

Coastal fog is common in the Gaspé region and can significantly reduce visibility, sometimes quite suddenly. If you encounter fog, the safest approach is to reduce speed immediately, turn on your dipped headlights and increase the distance to the vehicle ahead. Driving at a slower, more cautious pace is essential. If conditions become too difficult, it’s best to pull over at a designated rest area or viewpoint and wait for the fog to lift.

Rainy days can give the Gaspé landscape a dramatic and powerful mood, and your hire car is ideal for enjoying it. The coastal drive along Route 132 remains spectacular, with crashing waves and moody skies. You can stop at indoor attractions like the Musée de la Gaspésie in Gaspé or the Exploramer science centre in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. A wet day is also a good opportunity to visit cosy cafés and artisan shops in towns such as Percé or Carleton-sur-Mer.

Driving in Gaspésie in the shoulder seasons of May or October can be a lovely experience with much less traffic. It does require extra planning because of shorter daylight hours and possibly reduced services. Plan to finish driving before dusk and check opening hours for restaurants and attractions in advance, as some may be closed or operating limited hours. With a bit of planning you can enjoy the peaceful scenery and quiet roads of the off-season.

A winter visit to Gaspé calls for careful planning around driving conditions. While main routes such as Route 132 are prioritised for snow clearing, storms can cause temporary closures or hazardous driving. It’s essential to check provincial road condition reports before heading out on long drives. Allow significantly more travel time than in summer, and ensure your hire vehicle is properly equipped for winter conditions to make the journey safe.

To ensure a stress-free departure from Gaspé Airport (YGP), plan to arrive at the airport about 90 minutes before your flight’s scheduled departure. The drive from downtown Gaspé to the airport is short, typically under 15 minutes. You should also allow an extra 15 to 20 minutes for the car return process, including a final inspection and paperwork. Factoring these steps in will give you plenty of time to check in without rushing.

The least stressful method is to organise your belongings at the hotel before you check out. Pack your main luggage first, then gather any loose items from the car into a separate bag. Before driving to the airport, do a final thorough check of all compartments, including the glovebox, door pockets and under the seats. This prevents a last-minute scramble for personal items at the hire desk and ensures a quick return process.

If your hotel has limited parking, a practical approach is to use the temporary loading zone at the hotel entrance first. This allows you to unload luggage and complete check-in without hassle. Once checked in, ask hotel staff for advice on nearby overnight parking options. They can often direct you to a secure and convenient municipal car park where you can leave the hire car.

For easy access to downtown Gaspé’s attractions, the most convenient parking is usually in the public car parks along Rue de la Reine, the main street running parallel to the waterfront. These car parks provide direct access to the promenade, restaurants and shops, minimising the need to search for a space. From here you can leave the car and explore the town centre on foot.

For an efficient multi-town itinerary from Gaspé, follow a sequential route along the coast. Start by driving south from Gaspé to Percé on Route 132. After visiting, continue west along Route 132 as it follows the shore of the Baie des Chaleurs towards Carleton-sur-Mer. This logical progression follows the natural curve of the peninsula and lets you see the sights without unnecessary backtracking.

Both directions offer fantastic scenery, but many travellers prefer a counterclockwise loop when starting from Gaspé. Heading north first towards Forillon and then west along the St Lawrence puts dramatic coastal cliffs and sea views on the passenger side, offering better photo opportunities. This route also takes you through Parc de la Gaspésie and along the Baie des Chaleurs on the return, creating a varied and memorable trip.

A realistic 3-day plan from Gaspé can comfortably cover the main highlights. Day one: explore the southern sector of Forillon National Park, including areas such as Grande-Grave. Day two: dedicate the full day to a trip to Percé, allowing time for the scenic drive, views of Rocher Percé and maybe a boat tour. Day three: explore the northern sector of Forillon, visiting Cap-des-Rosiers and Cap-Bon-Ami before returning to Gaspé.

A 5- to 7-day road trip allows a comprehensive tour of the peninsula. Spend the first two days based in Gaspé exploring both sectors of Forillon National Park. On day three drive to Percé and stay overnight. Day four: scenic drive along the Baie des Chaleurs to a town such as Carleton-sur-Mer. Day five: drive inland through the Matapédia Valley towards Parc de la Gaspésie. Spend day six hiking in the park and complete the loop on day seven by driving the northern coast back to Gaspé.

For families, several spots around Gaspé and Forillon are ideal due to easy access. The beach at Cap-Bon-Ami in Forillon is a great choice, with parking just steps from the shoreline — perfect for play and picnics. In Percé, the main viewing areas for the famous rock are easily reachable from the town car parks. The waterfront promenade in Gaspé also offers a flat, simple walk with play areas and lovely views, making it a relaxing stop for everyone.

The network of electric vehicle (EV) charging points is continually expanding across the Gaspé Peninsula, making an electric hire feasible. Major towns such as Gaspé, Percé and Sainte-Anne-des-Monts have public chargers, often located near hotels, restaurants and tourist sites. Before your trip it’s a good idea to use an app like PlugShare or ChargeHub to map available chargers along your planned route to ensure a smooth journey.

When driving in Gaspésie, be constantly alert for wildlife, particularly moose, which are common throughout the region. Be especially cautious when driving through forested areas such as Forillon and Gaspésie national parks, and on the inland Route 299. The risk of encounters is highest at dawn and dusk and throughout the night. Always scan the sides of the road and be prepared to brake suddenly for your safety and that of the animal.

While most major attractions in Gaspésie are reachable by paved roads, you may find some gravel tracks leading to more secluded spots. The key is to drive slowly and steadily. Reducing speed minimises the risk of punctures from sharp stones and prevents dust and gravel from being thrown up. A standard hire car can handle these roads provided you proceed with caution.

Arriving by train or bus may change your car pickup strategy for convenience. Rather than going to the airport, it might be more practical to arrange collection from a downtown or non-airport hire location if available. Make sure to coordinate your reservation time with your scheduled arrival. This saves an extra trip to the airport and lets you get on the road more quickly after arrival.

Reaching Cap-des-Rosiers is a simple, scenic drive from Gaspé. Take Route 132 North which leads directly into the northern sector of Forillon National Park. The historic Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse is a prominent landmark and easy to find. There is a dedicated car park for visitors by the lighthouse which generally provides ample space, especially if you avoid visiting during the busiest mid-day hours in summer.

Route 132 is dotted with designated pull-offs, known as belvédères or haltes routières, which are the safest and best places to stop for photography. These spots are designed to offer stunning views of cliffs, sea stacks and the coastline without compromising traffic safety. It’s highly recommended to use only these official viewpoints rather than stopping on narrow road verges. The stretches of the north coast between Sainte-Anne-des-Monts and Forillon are particularly rich with scenic stops.

A good rule of thumb when driving the Gaspé Peninsula is to use the facilities in each village you pass through. Villages are typically spaced about 30 to 60 minutes apart, and each usually has a petrol station, a small grocery or convenience store (dépanneur) and public toilets. Don’t wait until it’s urgent, as services can be limited between towns. Planning breaks around these village stops makes for a more comfortable journey.

For camping in Forillon, the most practical plan is to do your main shopping in the town of Gaspé before heading to the park. Gaspé has large supermarkets where you can stock up on groceries, drinking water and other essentials for your stay. Once at your campsite, rely on smaller convenience stores near the park entrance for any last-minute items you’ve forgotten, but your main provisions should come from town.

While the main Gaspé Peninsula driving loop does not require ferries, they can be an option for extending your trip to other regions such as Quebec’s North Shore or the Magdalen Islands. If you’re considering a ferry, first verify the hire company’s policy. Some agreements may restrict taking vehicles on ferries, so confirming this in advance is a crucial step to avoid any issues.

Bad weather needn’t ruin your plans; your hire car provides good options for alternative exploration. A rainy day is perfect for a visit to the Musée de la Gaspésie in Gaspé to learn about the region’s history. You could also drive to Percé to visit interactive exhibits at the UNESCO Global Geopark. Another option is to take a coastal drive, stopping in different villages to discover cosy cafés, local artisan shops and bakeries.