Did you know that Orleans Island was nicknamed Bacchus Island by none other than the European explorer Jacques-Cartier himself?
A little historical parenthesis here to understand the origin of this name straight from ancient mythology. Bacchus is the Roman god of wine, agriculture and abundance. So you can see why it was the perfect name for this land of abundance.
Nearly 500 years later, we can largely prove him right. Even if the name has changed along the way.
So, like our explorer, many reasons can lead us to the famous Chemin Royal (and not just the island's famous strawberries).
Here is why you must visit Orleans Island this summer. Especially if, like me, you are an epicurean.
For its unique local products
Orleans Island has been unique in the province for over 500 years. Its numerous products have everything to make you envious and especially to make you salivate. Here is my small selection of must-taste products.
Winemakers unique to the island
If you are a wine lover, you will not be disappointed, since the island has many producers. The most famous are the Sainte-Pétronille vineyard, the Isle de Bacchus vineyard and the Mitan vineyard.
They all offer unique and high quality products. Some, like the Isle de Bacchus vineyard, created in 1982, is a pioneer in the history of Quebec viticulture. Today, the vineyard operates 11 hectares of vines on the island, whose grape varieties are adapted to the Quebec climate.
Apple growers
Whether you are looking to pick your own apples in the fall or to buy products derived from this fruit that has made Orléans Island famous, you will easily find many apple producers along Chemin Royal.
Producers such as Ferme Plante, Domaine Steinbach, Sainte-Famille or Cidrerie Verger Bilodeau offer many varieties of apples and products such as the famous cider.
Authentic cheeses
I mentioned it at the beginning of this article, the Fromages de l'isle d'Orléans not only offers a return to the past, but also a nice range of cheese for all tastes. Yes, even the famous cheese curds.
For its delicacies that make you salivate
From chocolate to honey, jam or blackcurrant, Orleans Island has a lot to offer.
Confiserie de la vieille école
If you are a confectionery lover, it is on the side of the Confiserie de la vieille école that it happens.
Established in an old rural school dating back to 1830 in Saint-François-de-l'Île-d'Orléans, the Confiserie offers a vast selection of products worthy of your childhood. Its old-fashioned fudge will clearly not leave you indifferent!
Cassis Monna et filles
In Saint-Pierre, a stop at Cassis Monna et filles is also a must during your visit to Orleans Island.
This establishment highlights the blackcurrant, this small and unusual field fruit. It offers variations in every conceivable form. Don't miss the wine or the blackcurrant ice cream. An original flavor that you will remember for a long time.
Chocolate factory
In Sainte-Pétronille and Saint-Laurent, sweet tooths (like me) will find their fill at the Chocolaterie de l'île d'Orléans. In addition to its fine chocolate store and its dairy bar, the magnificent terrace on the Sainte-Pétronille side has everything to enhance your experience.
Chocolate manufacturer since 1988, their products are made on site and by hand in an artisanal way.
La Nougaterie
When it comes to products exclusive to Orleans Island, nougat is definitely one of them. Made directly at their factory located in Saint-Pierre, the Nougaterie offers products with unique flavors.
Opened since 2008 on Île d'Orléans, the Nougaterie offers many flavors of nougat that will really surprise you (I'm thinking among others of the black beer flavored nougat).
Go there also to taste their sublime chocolate meringue. Really very decadent.
The Honeydew of Morpheus
Honey lover, it is on the side of Saint-Jean-de-l'Île-d'Orléans that you must go. La Miellée de Morphée was founded in 2010. Their passion for beekeeping, their know-how and the love they have for their little bees make this product one of the most natural and delectable there is. This is definitely the kind of honey jar you want to have in your pantry.
Tigidou jam factory
For my last gourmet suggestion, I suggest the Tigidou jam factory. This factory of happiness is an original and unavoidable gourmet stop during a tour of the island.
In a countryside setting in the municipality of Saint-Laurent, they offer a wide range of products made from the small fruits grown on the island. Something to "spice up" your breakfast for sure.
For its diversified accommodation offer
To get the most out of all that Orleans Island has to offer, you should ideally stay there for more than 24 hours. Here is my selection of accommodations for all budgets and tastes.
île d’Orléans Motel
In a decor that perfectly blends modern and retro touches, the Île d'Orléans Motel is located only a few kilometers from the entrance of the island.
It is therefore an excellent starting point for your stay. With scooter and bike rentals and a lunch counter, there is no doubt that it offers a complete experience.
Camping de la Pointe
If you prefer a more natural stay, you can go to Camping de la Pointe.
Offering even sites with a view of the river, this campground is located at the western point of the island, in the municipality of Saint-François. Immersion in nature and magnificent view of the river guaranteed.
auberge dans les Bras de Morphée
If you are looking for a visual as well as a gourmet experience, I suggest the Auberge Dans les Bras de Morphée.
In this beautiful house surrounded by gardens, you will find tranquility and access to many local products. It is also where you will find the honeydew Miellée de Morphée. At Dans les Bras de Morphée, you will no doubt spend a stay in good hands.
To take a trip back in time
Permanently inhabited since New France, Île d'Orléans is a page of history in itself.
With its ancestral houses and agricultural traditions that originated generations ago, you will feel like you have stepped back in time.
Mauvide-Genest Manor
An interesting stop if you appreciate the historical side of the island: the Mauvide-Genest Manor. Did you know that this is one of the oldest seigniorial manors in Quebec? Its construction dates back to 1734.
St. Lawrence Maritime Park
This place is a real open-air museum. In addition to offering an exceptional view of the river, the St. Lawrence maritime park transports you into the history of wooden shipbuilding on Île d'Orléans. Did you know that this is where wooden schooners were built for the Canadian Navy?
For its original outdoor activities
Orleans Island is a real open-air playground. If you are looking for action, there is no shortage of activities!
Tour the island by scooter or bicycle
Go to Quebec Adventure Tours to rent a scooter, bike or electric bike or to book a guided tour that will give you a different view of the island, impossible to have when driving. Discover the island at your own pace and get off the beaten path!
For its breathtaking landscapes
With its view on the river and its fields as far as the eye can see, Orleans Island also has beautiful landscapes to offer. When I'm on the island, I particularly appreciate stop by to contemplate the landscape, which also changes with the seasons.
I am always amazed by its diversity and the unique things it has to offer. The mythical Chemin du Mitan is a good example.
If you are passing through Sainte-Famille, don't hesitate to take this route. It also allows you to reach Saint-Jean, in the south of the island, more quickly. It is an interesting option if you have a little less time.
These are all reasons why you should visit Orleans Island this summer. It is an ideal destination for both the pleasure of the eyes and the stomach.
It offers a unique and complete experience and its warm welcome will leave you with beautiful memories I am sure of it.
Enjoy your stay!