🏞️ My Time Travel to Val-Jalbert: A Ghost Village Full of Life
I didn’t expect to fall in love with a ghost town, but Val-Jalbert in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean completely surprised me. Nestled near the shores of Lac Saint-Jean, this historic village is like stepping into a perfectly preserved slice of the 1920s — with just enough modern comfort to make it magical.
🕰️ A Village Built on Pulp and Dreams
Val-Jalbert was founded in 1901 as a company town for the Ouiatchouan Pulp Company. Imagine this: a bustling little community built around a pulp mill, with over 1,000 residents at its peak. It had electricity before most of Quebec, running water, and even a school and convent. It was the envy of the region — a model of modern living in the early 20th century.
But when the mill shut down in 1927, the village was abandoned almost overnight. What’s left today is a hauntingly beautiful collection of buildings, machinery, and stories frozen in time.
🚶♀️ Walking Through History
As I wandered through the old general store, the convent, and the mill itself, I could almost hear the echoes of children playing and workers heading to their shifts. The immersive show inside the pulp mill was a highlight — ghostly projections of former residents sharing their stories. It was emotional, nostalgic, and surprisingly moving.
And the Ouiatchouan Falls? Absolutely breathtaking. At 72 meters high, it’s even taller than Niagara Falls. I took the cable car to the top and just stood there, soaking in the view.
🏕️ Camping in August: The Best Way to Stay
August is the perfect time to visit. The weather is warm, the skies are clear, and the campground is buzzing with friendly travelers. I pitched my tent near the village and woke up to birdsong and mist rising off the lake. If you’re not into tents, there are cozy mini-houses and even restored period homes you can sleep in — complete with vintage decor but modern amenities.
🍽️ Pro Tips for First-Time Visitors
Book ahead: August is peak season, and accommodations fill up fast.
Stay overnight: Don’t just do a day trip — the village transforms at night with illuminated trails and a magical atmosphere.
Try the local cuisine: The restaurant at the old mill serves a gourmet 4-course meal featuring regional ingredients. Worth every bite.
Bring layers: Even in summer, evenings can get chilly by the lake.
Talk to the guides: They’re full of stories and little-known facts that bring the village to life.
Val-Jalbert isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place you feel. It’s history, nature, and nostalgia all wrapped into one unforgettable experience. If you’re planning a trip to Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, don’t skip this hidden gem.
