Ile d’Orleans, Quebec – Off the Beaten Path

Ile d’Orleans

Ile d’Orleans is positioned along the Saint Lawrence River and is quite close to Quebec City. It’s an island that can be accessed from the Ile d’Orelans Bridge, and there are many places in the area where you can wander off the beaten path.

An Overview of the Island

Ile d’Orleans is just 30 minutes east of Québec. To reach it, simply take the bridge in front of Montmorency Falls. The island is about 30 kilometers long, but it should take at least an hour to circle because of the superb scenery. There is mostly farm land there that grow potatoes and strawberries. The more adventurous sort can choose to cross to the island by bike, but the path crosses a highway and can be a little difficult to traverse.

History of the Island

Ile d’Orleans is literally an outdoor museum. This historical island, said to have belonged to the poet Felix Leclerc, is filled with centennial houses, historical churches, museums, and vineyards. Ile d’Orleans and the Saint Lawrence River were first discovered by the French explorer, Jacques Cartier, in 1535.

Sights of the Island

When visiting the island, you will find a small recording studio and plenty of some of the most beautiful and memorable scenery you’ll ever see. The island has all kinds of local businesses, including farms, wineryies, sugar shacks, chocolateries, and more. In the summer time, you can buy all kinds of fresh products almost anywhere on the island.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about going off the beaten path in Ill d’Orleans.