RAILforum: VIA Chaleur

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Posted by JoeRids1 (Member # 152) on :

I am taking a round-trip next weekend on VIA Rail's Chaleur from St. Lambert to Gaspe, Quebec in a lower berth. Can anyone give me any information as to what I can expect, i.e dining services, scenery, on-board atmosphere, sleepers, things to do during the layover in Gaspe, etc.? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!

Posted by David (Member # 3) on :

I was hoping that someone who had taken the "Chaleur" recently would respond. It has been several years since I have ridden that route beyond Matapedia, but last month we took the "Ocean" round trip between Montreal and Halifax. You probably know that the "Chaleur" and "Ocean" are combined between Montreal and Matapedia.

At this time of year, the trains are so long that they must be boarded on two tracks at Montreal and combined just before departure. On our last two trips this meant a late departure; last month's trip saw a 50 minute late departure. The combined train will need to make three stops at many stations. There were a total of 24 cars behind three F40 locomotives on my last run.

On the "Chaleur" there were three sleepers at the front of the train, a full dining car, a Skyline dome car and two coaches. There was a separate baggage car. The train is not turned at Gaspe, so the sleepers will be at the end for the return trip until Matapedia, where the consist will be spliced in behind the baggage car. It is my understanding that the menu in the "Chaleur" diner is more extensive than in the "Ocean" diner because of some arrangement between Via and a big tour company. I hope someone who has taken this trip recently will give you more information.

Have a great trip. Regards, David

Posted by JSChicago (Member # 68) on :

quote:
Originally posted by JoeRids1:
I am taking a round-trip next weekend on VIA Rail's Chaleur from St. Lambert to Gaspe, Quebec in a lower berth. Can anyone give me any information as to what I can expect, i.e dining services, scenery, on-board atmosphere, sleepers, things to do during the layover in Gaspe, etc.? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!

I actually do not know that much about the Chaleur train itself, but I have heard that the Gaspe peninsula is truly magnificent, one of the best scenic areas in Canada outside of the Rockies. Good choice; hope your trip is great!

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Peace,

Jack S.
Chicago, IL

Posted by reggierail (Member # 26) on :

Eastern Canada in October is one of my favorite places. I usually run a rail tour this time of the year but because of switching travel agencies I was ubable to put one together this year. You will have a marvelous trip. Please post a report when you return. Thanks Reggie

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