Saint-Jean-de-l’Île-d’Orléans

The Village of Pilots Facing the Channel.

In the heart of the historic district, Saint-Jean-de-l’Île-d’Orléans spreads along the Saint Lawrence River with charming houses that have witnessed generations of sailors being born and dying (often at sea) since the beginning of New France.

The marine cemetery extends to the tidelands, at the foot of a church with a bright red roof (1734) perched on the shore like a stranded vessel. In the center of the village, the Mauvide-Genest Manor (open for visits), built at the same time and recently restored, stands as the oldest and one of the most beautiful examples of New France architecture.

A true vegetable garden, Saint-Jean supplies Quebec City markets with a wide variety of flowers, all fresh vegetables, and the favorite products of gourmets: strawberries, raspberries, and maple products, offering a significant array of stalls during the summer season.

From Saint-Jean, one can cross the island to Sainte-Famille via the beautiful and solitary “Route du Mitan,” whose highest point offers an exceptional view of the river and the Laurentians!