◆ The Pilot’s Journal
The Island of Orleans: vineyards, orchards, and terroir
Ten minutes from Quebec, the Island of Orleans is a world of its own. Vineyards, cider houses, and local artisans follow one another on this island classified as cultural heritage. A tasty circuit that ends at Carrera Cafe.
The island at a glance
Classified heritage, lively and gourmet
The Island of Orleans has been Quebec’s nourishing garden since the 16th century and one of Quebec’s most beautiful agrotourism circuits.
Connected to Quebec by a bridge since 1935, the Island of Orleans stretches 35 km along the Saint Lawrence. Its six parishes were classified as a historic district in 1970. The island tour can be done by car in two hours, but cycling enthusiasts happily pedal it, with spectacular views of the Saint Lawrence.
Ideal season
Spring to autumn
Strawberries in June, blueberries in August, apples in September. Autumn transforms the island into an impressionist painting by the river.
★ Must-see
Practical
Car or bike tour
The scenic route makes a full loop. By bike, plan a full day. By car, half a day with stops.
Agrotourism
Vineyards and cider houses
The Saint Lawrence Harvests
The island produces some of the best ice wines and ciders in Quebec. A unique terroir, between river and mountains.
The Sainte-Petronille Vineyard, with its breathtaking view of Chateau Frontenac, is one of the most photographed in Quebec. You can taste fresh whites and subtle ice wines there. The Cidrerie du Minot, founded in 1988, is a pioneer of ice cider. Its cider has won international awards.
Vineyard
Sainte-Petronille Vineyard
Facing Chateau Frontenac, white wines and ice wines with a view worth the detour even without tasting.
★ Exceptional view
Cider House
Cidrerie du Minot
Pioneer of Quebec ice cider. Visit the facilities and tasting on site not to be missed.
Artisanal
Liqueurs
Cassis Monna and Daughters
Blackcurrant wines and liqueurs of remarkable finesse. The daughters have taken up the torch with a welcome modern touch.
Terroir
Mead
The Beehives of the Island
Honey and mead produced on the island, with bees pollinating the local apple trees. Tasting in season.
Local
Artisans and producers
The Flavor Route in practice
Over 68 km of roads, more than 40 producers welcome visitors. Strawberries, apples, artisanal cheeses, and jams.
The Île d'Orléans Chocolaterie is a must for its ice cider pralines. The island's strawberry fields are legendary in Quebec: in June, picking is a family ritual that has lasted for generations. The stands open at the first sunny days. Arrive early, like at the start of a grand prix.
★ The good plan
Visit the island in the morning when the light on the river is golden. Reserve a table at Moulin de Saint-Laurent for lunch. In the afternoon, head to Quebec and Carrera Cafe for coffee and digestion.
Quebec addresses to also see
The terroir continues in the city
The flavors of Île d'Orléans are also found with the best artisans of Old Quebec.
Cafe & Lifestyle
Carrera Cafe
In Petit-Champlain, the perfect conclusion to a day on the island. Boards with Charlevoix products and circuit espresso.
★ Signature
Fine grocery
J.A. Moisan
The oldest grocery store in North America offers Quebec terroir products: jams, honey, cheeses.
Grocery
Bakery
Borderon et Fils Bakery
Artisanal bread that recalls the know-how of village bakers. Ideal for a board with island cheeses.
Artisan
Chocolaterie
Erico Chocolaterie
On Saint-Jean Street, Eric Normand's creations share with the island the same love for local products and quality craftsmanship.
Artisanal
◆ Barista's Tip
The perfect pairing after the island
Are you coming back from Île d'Orléans with arms full of jams? Stop by Carrera Cafe before heading home. A ristretto espresso paired with a Charlevoix charcuterie board: the local flavors continue. A finish line worth the detour.
Your flavor tour
Did Île d'Orléans give you a taste for local products? Continue at Carrera Cafe, in Petit-Champlain, with our boards inspired by regional producers.
See the menuDiscover the Carrera
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