11 Activities
Journey Through the Quebec Countryside: Cider Route and Historic Sights
Starts from
Montreal
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Activities
11
Duration
11 hrs 31 min
Length
203 mi
Route details
Starts from
Montreal
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Duration
11 hrs 31 min
Length
203 mi
- History and Culture
- Natural Attractions
- Gastronomy
Tugce Ertan Meric
Travel Expert
- Watch how the locks are used in the historic trail of Chambly Canal.
- Taste apple vermouth while passing through the infamous cider route of Quebec.
- Get lost in the small historic towns of Quebec and experience the lives of New France soldiers.
- Admire the majestic St. Lawrence River and take in the views from special lookouts.
Driving from Montreal to Quebec City can be a boring flat trip on a highway, or you can create a great day that takes you through lush countryside, gastronomic spots, and historic towns. Montreal and Quebec City are major destinations, but there is much more the province can offer. The natural beauty of Canada is renown worldwide. However, the boutique cider and cheese producers are waiting to be discovered in hidden corners of the country. So, buckle up and hit the road from Montreal to explore the rural and slower life of Quebec's villages. On the way, you'll discover a historic canal trail, taste the famous ciders of Quebec, and experience the history of New France, all adorned with the unique Québécois culture. No trip to Quebec would be complete without tasting the local delicacy poutine, and this trip is no exception!
Categories
- History and Culture
- Natural Attractions
- Gastronomy
Driving from Montreal to Quebec City can be a boring flat trip on a highway, or you can create a great day that takes you through lush countryside, gastronomic spots, and historic towns. Montreal and Quebec City are major destinations, but there is much more the province can offer. The natural beauty of Canada is renown worldwide. However, the boutique cider and cheese producers are waiting to be discovered in hidden corners of the country. So, buckle up and hit the road from Montreal to explore the rural and slower life of Quebec's villages. On the way, you'll discover a historic canal trail, taste the famous ciders of Quebec, and experience the history of New France, all adorned with the unique Québécois culture. No trip to Quebec would be complete without tasting the local delicacy poutine, and this trip is no exception!
Tugce Ertan Meric
Travel Expert
- Watch how the locks are used in the historic trail of Chambly Canal.
- Taste apple vermouth while passing through the infamous cider route of Quebec.
- Get lost in the small historic towns of Quebec and experience the lives of New France soldiers.
- Admire the majestic St. Lawrence River and take in the views from special lookouts.
Day Itinerary
11 Activities
Day 1
201 mi2 mi
Taste and Explore the Heart of Quebec on a Scenic Drive
Enjoying the Québécois culture and farm-to-table gastronomy stops, this route will offer a scenic drive through the Quebec countryside. It will pass from Rougemont, which is famous for its cider route, then will head to Chambly, a bustling historic town, and after stopping by an ancient Québécois village, you will admire the views of the St. Lawrence River and arrive in Quebec City in the evening.
08:3015 min
Viridi Café
Food
Take your morning coffee as a takeaway from this small and cute café. Their baristas are friendly, and the coffee here is great. Having a short walk combined with the smell of coffee will be a perfect start for your trip.
0.4 mi
8 min
09:0045 min
Chambly Canal National Historic Site
History
Take a walk on the historic trail of Chambly Canal and stretch your legs before the busy day trip ahead of you. This heritage site was originally built in 1843, and it is still actively used for lifting boats with a system of nine locks. You can observe the locks and relax in the green, quiet atmosphere while you greet the bikers that pass by you. Although the area is maintained for a certain period of the year, it is accessible at all times.
1.1 mi
22 min
10:0030 min
Fort Chambly National Historic Site
History
A well-known historic site on the Chambly Canal Trail is the Fort Chambly National Historic Site, an old stone citadel built in 1711. Travel back in time and imagine the life of New France soldiers. The fort was mostly restored to its original architecture, and the site also offers an urban park.
The opening hours vary by season, but even if it's closed, you can admire it by seeing it from outside. It's an important heritage site of Canada.
The opening hours vary by season, but even if it's closed, you can admire it by seeing it from outside. It's an important heritage site of Canada.
12.7 mi
21 min
11:001 hr
Cidrerie Michel Jodoin
Drinks
From Chambly, head to the cider route, Quebec's apple, maple, and wine country. It's a perfect place for gastronomic enthusiasts. There are more than a dozen cideries in this region, in addition to local cheese and honey producers.
Cidrerie Michel Jodoin in Reougemont is among the oldest and most famous producers. It offers a variety of sparkling, alcoholic, and nonalcoholic ciders. Try apple vermouth and enjoy the view around the estate; it pleases the eye, especially during fall.
Cidrerie Michel Jodoin in Reougemont is among the oldest and most famous producers. It offers a variety of sparkling, alcoholic, and nonalcoholic ciders. Try apple vermouth and enjoy the view around the estate; it pleases the eye, especially during fall.
48 mi
1 hr 1 min
13:101 hr
Aubier
Food
It's time to continue the journey towards Quebec City. Drummondville is one of the major towns on this route. Stop in this pub-style restaurant and have your lunch on the pretty terrace, should the weather permit.
2 mi
6 min
14:1545 min
Village Québécois d'Antan
History
Drummondville is famous for its recreated historic Québécois village. It offers an exciting insight into the village life in Quebec in the 19th century. There is a farm, and staff members wear period costumes. It's a lovely experience, but they are only open on weekends and yearly festivals. Still, Drummondville is a perfect place to experience the rural side of Quebec and admire the classic prairie houses around.
40 mi
52 min
16:0030 min
Musée Laurier
History
Musee Laurier was actually the former home of Canada's first French-Canadian prime minister. It was built in the Victorian style in 1875. Today, the patrimonial historic site offers a well-chosen collection of Canadian artists and prestigious exhibitions. Enter the historic house of Sir Wilfrid Laurier and learn about the history of Quebec. There are also tours offered in English at this site.
17.9 mi
25 min
17:0015 min
Plessisville Waterfall
Natural
Stop by this small and secluded waterfall to take a break and listen to the water flow. This waterfall is surrounded by such a relaxing atmosphere and lush greenery. If you happen to be there after dark, you can catch the light shows as well.
61.3 mi
1 hr 10 min
18:3015 min
Terrasse du Chevalier-de-Lévis
Outdoor
Before crossing to Quebec City, take a break in Levis on the south bank of the St. Lawrence River and stop at the Terrace of Levis. This riverside park was opened by Queen Elisabeth and King George VI in 1939, and the views are stunning. It offers a great view of Quebec City and Levis as well as the grandiose Château Frontenac across the St. Lawrence River, especially during sunset. However, the view after dark becomes another delight.
19.8 mi
35 min
19:301 hr
Chez Rioux & Pettigrew
Food
For a dinner, visit Chez Rioux & Pettigrew in Old Quebec. It’s a warm, welcoming place with unique vintage decor that nods to its history as a 19th-century general store. They focus on Québécois dishes with a modern touch, using fresh, local ingredients that reflect the seasons, so there’s always something interesting to try.
