Close to Montréal, this route is an utter delight. Rich in heritage, the Montérégie region also appeals to outdoor enthusiasts. The Richelieu River crosses the area, which boasts forts and museums, and is home to two UNESCO World Biosphere Reserves.
260 km
The Route du Richelieu can be travelled by car, motorcycle or bike. The region’s Richelieu River, landscapes and heritage tell the story of Québec’s history.
Unforgettable moments
Regions
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
The Chambly Canal National Historic Site boasts 20 km of bike paths running along the Chambly Canal to Lock No. 9 in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Interpretive panels relate its history. The path is flat and easy.
Nestled next to the Richelieu River, the Fort Saint-Jean Museum presents 350 years of military history through maps, models, uniforms, weapons and artifacts. Make the most of your visit with a guide or audioguide.
Life of soldiers and Indigenous culture
Jump ahead in time and visit the Fort Chambly National Historic Site to learn about the life of French soldiers in the New France era. This fort was never attacked, other than the conquest of 1760.
La Maison amérindienne is the perfect spot to learn about First Nations people through a variety of exhibitions and activities. The De l’eau... à la bouche exhibition highlights maple products. Care for a taste?
On the Patriots' route
Spend a cultural morning at the Musée des beaux-arts de Mont-Saint-Hilaire and discover the creative talent of artists from the region, elsewhere in Québec and abroad. The Montérégie region boasts the highest concentration of artists in the province.
In the afternoon, visit Maison nationale des Patriotes and jump to the 1800s, to the heart of the patriot movement. Costumed guides explain the social, economic and political context of the events of 1837-1838.
Cap off the day by diving into the immersive world of Statera – L’archipel fabuleux, a three-part, multimedia experience: a cruise, an interactive pathway and 360° projections. A fun and bright adventure. Magical!
Sorel and its magnificent islands
This museum is dedicated to the Lac-Saint-Pierre Biosphere Reserve. It bears witness to the region’s human, social and cultural activities. Make the most of your visit by taking a boat excursion and visiting the various exhibitions.
The Route du Richelieu ends with a tour of the Sorel islands, in the Lac-Saint-Pierre Biosphere Reserve, aboard the Randonnée nature cruise boat. The wildlife in this area is truly impressive.
