Ile d'Orleans, Quebec

4 more images

Ile d’Orleans is an island just stone throw away from Parc de la Chute – Montmorency via the bridge. Known as the “Garden of Quebec”, the island has provided Quebec City with fresh produce for many years. There are many B&Bs and inns, art galleries, wineries and restaurants within the Island. You do need a car to get around the island.

2 more images

Île d'Orléans is located in the Saint Lawrence River about 20 km to the east of Quebec City's downtown. It is 34 km long and 8 km wide. The French explorer Jacques Cartier first set foot on the island in 1535 near what is now the village of Saint-François. He called it Île de Bacchus because of the abundance of wild grapes growing on the island. The name was later changed to Île d'Orléans in honour of the King of France. The island was one of the first parts of the province to be settled by the French, and a large percentage of French Canadians can trace their ancestry to the island.

The Île d'Orléans was granted the status of National Historic District in 1970. At the village of Sainte-Pétronille toward the western end of the island there is a viewpoint from which one can see the impressive Chute Montmorency (Montmorency Falls) as well as a panorama of the St. Lawrence River and Quebec City.

Using a map we explored the rural place famous locally for its produce, especially its strawberries, apples, potatoes and wineries. There are also sugar maple stands producing maple syrup and other products. There is even a buffalo farm. We loved the soft ice cream dipped in warm fudge, we followed the lines.

If you are in Quebec City in the winter ( say March ) drive east to I'le D'Orleans and drive around the island . A sunny day is preferred.

In the winter the island is near deserted except for Ste. Petronille at the western tip of the island.

The snow banks will be huge , and with the sun , and with the beautiful houses , you will be treated to some beautiful scenery.

Ile d'Orleans is an oasis of tranquility located in the St. Lawrence River just a few miles to the east of Quebec City. Because of its isolation during most of its history, it was classified as a national historic district of Quebec in 1970. Joined to the mainland of Quebec only since 1935, the island retains many of its original cultural facets and makes for an excellent day-trip if you are staying in the area! See my 'Ile d'Orleans' page for more information!

A great island to drive or cycle round. Great for apple picking.

Fifteen minutes from the heart of Quebec, one of North America's most historic cities, lies the equally historic and scenic Ile d'Orleans, itself a repository of French, British, and American cultures since the early 1600's.

The Ile d'Orleans, 75 kilometers/40 miles in circumference, was classified as a national historic district in 1970. The island is easily explored, especially if you follow the self-guided tour available in cassette form from the information bureau at the foot of the Pont de l'Ile bridge. The synchronized narrative takes independent drivers on a leisurely 1-1/2 hour drive along the Chemin Royal, the historic road that encircles the island.

Visit the Domaine Steinbach, Vinaigerie et Ciderie
Go for the apple products. Over 4000 trees on 30 acres.
Organic apple juice,organic apple cider, organic apple cider, pickles,onion preserves,jellies, jams and salad dressings, ketchups and mustards. That is the short list. Take your check book. It's very good and free samples are provided.
All apple products are pesticide free. Guided tours availiable. Interpretation centre. And did I mention free samples. You can even book to stay there in their 3 century old farm house.

A visit to the La Sucrerie Blouin on the Île d'Orléans. It's a Cabane à sucre or a sugar shack. It's a maple syrup farm which uses the traditional method of collecting sap in a picturesque setting. It's open all year round and great fun!.
Located on the shores of the St. Lawrence River. Snow-cooled maple taffy served year-round.Typical 'Canadien' menu: pea soup, pork & beans, ham, sausage, potatoes, stew, meat pie,' oreilles de crisse '(pan-fried pork crisps), eggs & maple syrup, and pancakes. Available on request:Mechoui (lamb, pork, beef), music, dancing, and entertainment. Advance bookings only.

Ile d’Orléans is recognized as being the most important district of Quebec. The pic shows Quebec City from the island.

A view of the L'Ile D'Orleans bridge.A beautiful view.
L'Ile D'Orleans is the largest historic area in Quebec.For more info. please visit the following web site:
www.iledorleans.qc.ca