Val-Jalbert

Nestled in the heart of Quebec's majestic landscape lies the historical village of Val-Jalbert, a window into the early 20th-century industrial boom in Canada. Established in 1901, this once-thriving company town is now a well-preserved open-air museum that offers visitors a chance to step back in time.

The village was built around a pulp mill, which utilized the power of the Ouiatchouan Falls to manufacture paper products. At its peak, Val-Jalbert buzzed with activity, boasting modern amenities rare for its era, such as electricity and running water. However, the economic downturn of the 1920s led to the mill's closure in 1927, turning Val-Jalbert into a ghost town.

Today, the site stands as a testament to the lives and stories of the early industrial workers of Canada. Visitors can explore over 40 original buildings that have been meticulously maintained or restored, including the general store, the convent school, and the pulp mill itself. The museum's interactive exhibits and costumed interpreters provide a vivid portrayal of the daily lives of the villagers.

One of the highlights of Val-Jalbert is the breathtaking Ouiatchouan Falls, higher than Niagara Falls, which continues to captivate visitors with its natural beauty and power. The site also offers a cable car ride that gives a panoramic view of the entire village and the falls – a perfect way to appreciate the blend of natural and historical heritage that Val-Jalbert represents.