DK Travel : Montréal and Québec City : Ile d’Orléans

Ile d’Orléans

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A haven of greenery and tranquility, Ile d’Orléans was one of the first European settlements in the New World and is referred to as the cradle of French civilization in North America. Ever since Jacques Cartier arrived here in 1535, the six parishes along this 30-km (18-mile) island have maintained many of the French traditions of the first settlers, and over 600 heritage buildings present a preserved architectural gem. The fertile soil means that the island’s produce has become known as the area’s open-air market.

Top 10 Sights

1. Ile de Bacchus

When Jacques Cartier found vines here he named it Ile de Bacchus after the Greek god of wine, then changed the name to honor the Duke of Orléans.
2. Montmorency Falls

Higher than Niagara Falls, Montmorency Falls are a dramatic sight before you cross the bridge onto the island (see Parc de la Chute-Montmorency).
3. Interpretation Center

The Centre d’Interprétation rents out their $10 tape or CD guide which you can play in your car stereo as you tour the island for a background history of the various parishes.
4. Auberge la Goeliche

4. Auberge la Goeliche

In the lovely community of Ste-Pétronille the Auberge la Goeliche offers guests old-world hospitality, food and ambiance.
5. Chocolaterie de l’Ile d’Orléans

5. Chocolaterie de l’Ile d’Orléans

Ste-Pétronille is home to the most wonderful chocolate-maker in the province, which also sells delicious homemade ice cream, jellies and other edible goodies. It also houses an interesting interpretation center that explains the process of creating chocolate.
6. Le Vignoble Ste-Pétronille

6. Le Vignoble Ste-Pétronille

With an incredible view across the St Lawrence River to Montmorency Falls, this 50-acre vineyard is an excellent example of a quality, cold-weather grape vintner creating red, white and rosé wines, popular in the restaurants of Québec City.
7. Horatio Walker Studio

The Canadian landscape artist Horatio Walker was a resident of the island, and his studio is preserved in Ste-Pétronille on the street renamed in his honor. His legacy continues in the work of other island painters such as Horace Champagne.
8. Domain Steinbach

8. Domain Steinbach

Domain Steinbach, located in St-Pierre, welcomes visitors for organic wine and cider tastings, and also makes vinegars and mustards.

Practical Information

Auberge Restaurant Le Canard Huppé in the village of St-Laurent (2198 chemin Royal 1-800-838-2292) will spoil you with fine cuisine. They also have B&B rooms if you want to stay overnight. There are also many other B&B accommodations across the island. The tranquility of this island makes it a perfect spot to rent a bicycle, follow the walking guide from the Interpretation Center or enjoy a picnic at one of the idyllic spots beside the river. Dufferin-Montmorency highway 440 Bureau d’information touristique: 490 côte du Pont, St-Pierre-del’Ile-d’Orléans (418) 828 9411 www.iledorleans.com