How long is the guided tour?
Robert‑Bourassa generating facility
The tour of the Robert‑Bourassa generating facility takes approximately 4 hours.
It includes a presentation in the amphitheater, a tour of the outside facilities and a tour
of the generating station.
La Grande‑1 generating station
The tour of La Grande‑1 generating station takes approximately 3 hours.
It includes a presentation in the amphitheater, a tour of the outside facilities and a tour
of the generating station.
When are visits?
During the summer, tours to the Robert‑Bourassa generating facility are held daily
at 1 p.m.
Tours of La Grande‑1 generating station take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
and Sundays at 9 a.m. The tours are generally given in French. For an English
tour, please call us in advance.
Please note: Because spaces are limited, reservations are mandatory and must
be made at least 48 hours in advance.
During the off-season, from September to May, only tours of the Robert‑Bourassa
generating facility are given. Departures are based on guide availability. For further
information, do not hesitate to contact us.
Is it absolutely necessary to make a reservation, even for only one or
two people?
Because spaces are limited, reservations are mandatory, regardless of the number of people,
and must be made at least 48 hours in advance.
If the date you would like to visit is less than 48 hours away or if you have special needs
(someone in your group wears a pacemaker or has reduced mobility, etc.), please call us at
1 800 291‑8486.
Do the tours take place indoors?
Most of the tours are indoors, and by bus, with a portion of outside, mainly at
the lookouts.
In case of rain, make sure to dress appropriately and bring an umbrella.
Are the tours accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The tours are partially accessible to people with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs are
available, but they can only be used in the generating stations.
Visitors must therefore be able to get on and off the bus several times, in addition to
walking a few steps when visiting the facilities and lookouts.
Is the tour suitable for young children?
No. The tour is suitable for school‑age children. For safety reasons, children five and
under are advised not to participate in the tour. (See next question.)
Why is the tour not recommended for children 5 and under?
The tour is not recommended for the following reasons:
- Visitors must wear personal protective equipment. However, the size of this equipment is
not suitable for children 5 and under.
- The tour involves a significant amount of walking, as well as numerous stairs.
(Strollers and baby carriers are not allowed.)
- The generating station is an industrial property with high heat, noise and
dust levels.
- Tours last 3–4 hours.
Is there a significant amount of walking during the tour?
Yes. Part of the tour takes place in the amphitheater, but certain portions take place by bus
and walking is required in the generating station. Stops are also planned at
the lookouts.
The walking distance is about 0.5 kilometres inside the generating stations, and there
are 4 flights of stairs.
What clothing is recommended for the tour?
Flat, closed-toe shoes are required.
In case of rain, make sure to dress appropriately and bring an umbrella.
Please note: The temperature inside the generating station can vary
significantly from the outdoor temperature. We recommend you bring a jacket or sweater.
Why do I need to show identification to access the facilities?
This is a requirement of Hydro‑Québec’s corporate security management team to protect
personnel, visitors and equipment.
Visitors aged 18 and over must present identification (driver’s licence, health
insurance card or passport) before they can tour the facilities.
Where do the tours start?
Robert‑Bourassa generating facility
The starting point for the tour of the Robert‑Bourassa generating facility is:
66
Avenue des Groseilliers
Radisson (Québec) J0Y 2X0
La Grande‑1 generating station
The starting point for La Grande‑1 tour is at the generating station residences.
Directions are provided at time of booking.
Does Hydro‑Québec provide transportation from Radisson to the
La Grande‑1 generating station?
No. However, once at the site, part of the tour takes place by bus (provided by
Hydro‑Québec).
What other places are there to visit in the vicinity of
La Grande‑1 generating station?
The Cree community of Chisasibi, located about 30 minutes from the station, can be
reached by car.
Alternatively, you can visit Longue‑Pointe, a peninsula that extends into James Bay,
less than 45 minutes from the generating station.
Are you allowed to take photos in the generating stations?
No. For safety reasons, it is prohibited to bring a camera or any other electronic device
(cell phone, tablet, MP3 player, portable music player or computer) into the
generating stations.
However, you are permitted to take photos in the interpretation center, at the lookouts and
when visiting the facilities outside.
Are you allowed to bring a handbag or backpack into the
generating stations?
No. Visitors must leave their personal belongings (purse, backpack, cell phone, bags, etc.)
in a locked locker provided free of charge.
Are water bottles allowed in the generating stations?
Yes, but visitors must carry them at all times. We recommend staying well hydrated,
especially in the summer, as it can be hot in the generating stations. We recommend bringing
a reusable water bottle.
Can people with pacemakers visit the generating stations?
No. The electromagnetic fields in power plants may disrupt pacemaker operation. As a
precaution, visitors with pacemakers may not participate in this part of the tour. They are
invited to see a video presentation of the generating stations.
Are strollers or baby carriers allowed in the generating stations?
Is there a restaurant or cafeteria on site?
No. There are no restaurants, cafeterias or vending machines at the generating station or the
interpretation center. However, guides may recommend restaurants in Radisson.
Are there public restrooms on site?
Yes. There are restrooms for men and women in the interpretation centers.
Where can I stay in Radisson?
Here are a few suggestions:
- Camping Radisson (819 638‑8687)
- Motel Carrefour La Grande (819 638‑6005)
- Motel Baie‑James (819 638‑9123)
- Auberge Radisson (819 638‑7201 or 1 888 638‑7201)
Guests are advised to contact the hotel and make a reservation before traveling to
the area.
Is there cell phone reception all the way to James Bay?
There is no cellular network on Route de la Baie‑James. However, a few companies
(Telus, Bell and Videotron) provide service in Radisson.
Are there gas stations on Route de la Baie‑James?
The only gas station is located at the service area at kilometre 381. You’ll need to
fill up in Matagami to make sure you don’t run out of gas.
What services are offered at the service area?
In addition to a 24‑hour service station, the service area offers accommodation,
showers and roadside service in case of breakdowns. There is also a convenience store and
restaurant on site.
Are there rest areas along Route de la Baie‑James?