VISITING ORLEANS ISLAND: THE COMPLETE GUIDE

Just 15 minutes from Quebec City via the Dufferin-Montmorency Highway and the Île d'Orléans Bridge, Île d'Orléans is one of the most historically rich, flavourful, and beautiful destinations in the entire region. Félix Leclerc, who lived and is buried there, nicknamed it "the garden of Quebec"—a description that remains perfectly apt. Voilà Québec has been frequenting and documenting it since 1978.

Île d'Orléans in brief

Île d'Orléans is approximately 34 km long and 8 km wide, with a permanent population of about 7,000 spread across six municipalities. It is connected to the north shore by a single bridge, built in 1935, starting in Beauport. The island was designated a historic district in 1970—a designation that protects its remarkably well-preserved rural and heritage character. From the island's shores, the view of Old Quebec, Cap-Diamant, and the Laurentian Mountains is among the most beautiful in the region.

The six villages of the island

Sainte-Pétronille — The lookout point overlooking Quebec

The first village encountered upon entering the island from the bridge, Sainte-Pétronille occupies the westernmost point—the closest to Quebec City. The Sainte-Pétronille lookout offers the most direct and beautiful view of Old Quebec, the Château Frontenac, and Cap Diamant from the island. It is also home to one of the oldest vineyards in Quebec: the Gourdeau de Beaulieu winery, dating back to the 17th century. The Ste-Pétronille Vineyard offers ice wines as well as red and white wines produced on the island. The Moulin de Sainte-Pétronille, a gourmet restaurant housed in a former mill, is a regional landmark.

Saint-Laurent — The Village of the Navigators

Historically linked to river navigation, Saint-Laurent retains a maritime soul. Its marina is the largest on the island. The Godbout boatyard, founded in 1840, is one of the last remaining artisanal boatyards in Quebec—Saint-Laurent boats are handcrafted there using traditional methods and are recognized as intangible cultural heritage. The Saint-Laurent Maritime Park offers visitors the chance to see the old dry dock and restored boats.

Saint-Jean — The Village of Captains

Saint-Jean was traditionally the village of the St. Lawrence River pilots, those sailors who guided ships through the river's complex waters. The century-old houses lining the riverfront bear witness to this historical prosperity. The Mauvide-Genest Manor (1734) is one of the few Norman houses from that era still standing in Quebec—guided tours and a heritage garden are available. Félix Leclerc is also buried in the Saint-Jean cemetery.

Saint-François — The panorama over the Laurentians

At the eastern tip of the island, Saint-François is the wildest and most rural village. The road leading there winds through open agricultural landscapes with sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River and, to the north, the Laurentian Mountains. The Saint-François observation tower offers a view of both shores of the St. Lawrence and the Charlevoix mountains to the east. The marshes and mudflats in the eastern sector are important habitats for migratory birds.

Holy Family — The cradle of the island

Founded in 1661, the parish of Sainte-Famille is the oldest continuously inhabited rural community in Canada. The Sainte-Famille Church (1743, with a unique three-steepled façade, the only one of its kind in Quebec) is a national monument. The Chocolaterie de l'Île d'Orléans is located there—a must-see for lovers of artisanal chocolate.

Saint-Pierre — The north entrance gate

Saint-Pierre is the most commercially developed village on the island, located across the north shore from Quebec City. The large strawberry farms that have made the island famous (Gosselin, Perrault) are located in this area. The Saint-Pierre church (1717) is the oldest church still in use in Quebec.

The essential producers

• Cassis Monna & Girls (Saint-Pierre) — The go-to place for crème de cassis and blackcurrant wines on the island. Tastings and tours of the facilities are available. The shop also offers jams, jellies, and other blackcurrant products.
• The Mitan (Saint-Pierre) — Fine cheese factory producing cheeses that have won awards at Canadian cheese competitions. Shop on site.
• Chocolaterie de l'Île d'Orléans (Sainte-Famille) — Handcrafted chocolates made on site, with flavors that often incorporate products from the island (blackcurrant, strawberry, maple).
• Bilodeau Cider House (Saint-Pierre) — Apple ciders and ice ciders produced on the island. Tasting in season.
• Ste-Pétronille Vineyard (Sainte-Pétronille) — Internationally award-winning ice wine, red and white wines produced on the island.
• Gosselin and Perrault Strawberry Farms (Saint-Pierre) — The island's two large pick-your-own strawberry farms. Open from mid-June to the end of July, they welcome thousands of visitors each summer for strawberry picking — a Quebec tradition.

Touring the island

By car

The complete circuit around the island is approximately 67 km along Route 368—the Royal Road. By car, without stopping, it takes about an hour. With stops at local producers, scenic viewpoints, and a meal, allow a full day. The road is lightly trafficked off-season and offers continuous views of the river and agricultural landscapes.

By bike

The 67-km circular route is bikeable—but it does have some significant climbs, especially on the north shore. For cyclists in good physical condition, it's a wonderful day out. Bikes can be rented in Quebec City (several shops in Old Quebec and Saint-Roch). The Île Bridge is accessible to cyclists.

When to visit Île d'Orléans?

June-July — Strawberry season. The strawberry fields of Saint-Pierre are in full swing with pick-your-own. The island is at the peak of its agritourism activity.

August — Raspberries and blueberries are taking over from strawberries. The summer heat is at its peak and restaurant patios are packed.

September October — The most visually beautiful season. The autumn colours transform the island's orchards and forests into a fiery tableau. Apples are ready for picking and ciders are being produced.

Winter The island takes on a tranquil and authentic winter character. Few producers are open, but the snowy landscapes with views of Quebec City are spectacular. Some vineyards and cider houses are open for tours.

How to get to Île d'Orléans

By car from Quebec City: take Highway 440 East (Dufferin-Montmorency), then Route 369 towards the Île d'Orléans bridge. Allow approximately 20 minutes from Old Quebec. Without a car, guided bus tours are available from Old Quebec (several tour operators offer full-day or half-day tours including stops at local producers).

(I.e. Voilà Québec — Guide to the greater Quebec City area since 1978. Île d'Orléans has been part of our coverage area since our beginnings.