Ruisseau-à-Rebours and Rivière-à-Claude

The municipality of Rivière-à-Claude encompasses two distinct towns: Rivière-à-Claude and Ruisseau-à-Rebours. Separated by lowlands, these two charming towns are nestled at the foot of the mountains and stretch along the shore. There are two theories regarding the origins of each: it is said that Rivière-à-Claude is a corruption of Rivière-à Glaudes, named as such for the kingfishers ("les glaudes") that feasted on trout in the river. Or perhaps the name derives from one Claude Létourneau, who fished at this same location. As for Ruisseau-à-Rebours, it may have taken its name from a land surveyor named Arbour or Harbourg. But could the name also have come, as some believe, from the fact that the meanders at the river's mouth give the impression that the river is flowing contrary ("à rebours") to the direction it normally should take to reach the sea? Regardless, vacationers are always welcome in both towns. Be sure to stop at the Pierre-Drapeau lookout.