Dreaming of the open road? Introducing Pitch a Trip, a program designed by Turo to help everyday Canadians and aspiring content creators turn their road trip dreams into reality. Today, we’re excited to highlight Akshay’s road trip through Quebec, where he and his travel companions explored breathtaking fall colours, picturesque parks, and charming cities.
The pitch
Akshay’s goal was to experience the stunning fall foliage of Quebec and reach the Atlantic Ocean at the easternmost point of the province. With his girlfriend, his friend, and his friend’s wife, he planned an ambitious route from Toronto to Montreal, Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, Gaspé, and Quebec City before returning home. For the trip, they selected a BMW X7 M, a dream vehicle that combined luxury, comfort, and performance, making the long drives both enjoyable and unforgettable.
The destination
Quebec is a road-tripper’s paradise in the fall, with winding roads framed by vibrant orange and red forests. The group’s journey included pit stops at iconic spots like Montreal’s Notre Dame Basilica, the breathtaking Saint Lawrence River at Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, and national parks such as Gaspésie, Forillon, and Bic. Each destination offered something unique, from panoramic views to cozy accommodations and delicious local cuisine.
The journey
The adventure kicked off in Toronto with an early start, and the first stop was Montreal for a quick stay at the boutique Sonder Hotel. After stocking up on supplies at Costco, the group enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the city before heading further into Quebec.
Driving through Sainte-Anne-des-Monts and along the Saint Lawrence River, the group was mesmerized by the stunning fall colours, something they felt was unmatched by anything in the Greater Toronto Area. Stops at multiple national parks added variety to their journey, with highlights like drone views of low-lying clouds at Gaspésie National Park and winding roads surrounded by towering hills.
In Gaspé, they aimed to see Percé Rock but arrived too late due to frequent stops to admire the scenery. Despite the detour, none of them regretted pausing to appreciate the beauty of Quebec’s landscape.
Their next stop was Quebec City, where they stayed for two nights. Experiencing the city for the first time, they were blown away by its charm, calling it more vibrant and beautiful than Montreal. They soaked in the fall and Halloween vibes, explored the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, and marveled at the city’s iconic bridges.
On their way back to Toronto, they stopped in Montreal once more for a must-have combination of bagels and Orange Julep, a fitting end to their Thanksgiving road trip.
Pro tips:
Take your time: Be willing to stop frequently to enjoy the scenery—it’s worth it, even if it means arriving late to your destination.
Stay at Panora Loges: A cozy and scenic lodge by the Saint Lawrence River, highly recommended for travellers.
Follow the recommended GPS routes: Look for the roads that showcase the best views Quebec has to offer.
The Turo experience
Here’s what Akshay had to say about his experience with Turo:
“The car was fantastic! It had massage seats, a great sound system, lots of space, amazing mileage, and noise blocking. The full BMW X7 M was just the best thing ever.” Booking through Turo was seamless, and the host was helpful, ensuring the car exceeded their expectations. He appreciated Turo’s vast selection of vehicles, noting that it’s “a lot easier, with a lot more options” compared to traditional car rentals.
Turo offers a wide selection of vehicles to fit any budget, style, and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a compact car for a quick getaway, an SUV for a family road trip, or an EV for an eco-friendly adventure, Turo has you covered.
Feeling inspired by Akshay’s adventure? Then why not create your own?