What are your plans for the weekend? When the warm weather arrives, the urge to escape the city can strike unexpectedly. Planned or spontaneous, a getaway in Haut-Richelieu leads to one-day adventures filled with memories to cherish.
A Breath of Fresh Air
If Montérégie is a paradise for cyclists, Haut-Richelieu is its epicenter. Over 300 kilometers of bike paths stretch across picturesque farmland with gentle slopes. Road cycling enthusiasts will love these circuits offering pure joy. For a more leisurely outing, La Montérégiade and Canal-de-Chambly paths are particularly accessible and safe, perfect for a family ride.
Feeling the call of the mountain? Head to Mont Saint-Grégoire, where two trails maintained by CIME (Centre d’interprétation du milieu écologique) Haut-Richelieu wind through this protected natural area. Along the way, interpretive panels share fascinating insights into the ecosystems and the history of the former stone quarry carved into the mountain. At the summit (after a 45-minute climb), enjoy breathtaking views of Montreal, Rougemont, Mont Saint-Hilaire and, on a clear day, the Adirondacks.
Combine cycling and hiking in one day or extend your stay. Many accommodations in the region proudly carry the Bienvenue cyclistes! certification.
Brewery Tour
The first stop on this epicurean microadventure: Terre à Boire, a farm brewery and artisanal distillery. This family-run business in Saint-Blaise-sur-Richelieu is one of the few in Québec to use its own organic grains in beer production. Settle onto the terrace, soak in the scenery, and sip these “field-to-glass” creations accompanied by a wood-fired pizza. Pure bliss!
At Domaine Berthiaume, the family-friendly atmosphere and warm welcome make you feel like you’re visiting friends. This microbrewery in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu offers a picnic area for sunny breaks. While you enjoy the house-brewed beers, kids can burn off energy in the play area.
The Montérégie-based producer Lagabière invites you to its charming Buvette Laganière in the heart of Old Saint-Jean. Overlooking the Richelieu River, this bistro-style venue is perfect for enjoying a bite to eat and lingering over a craft beer. The menu also features a wide selection of alcohol-free beers, so everyone can enjoy the convivial experience.
Urban Escape
Spend a day exploring Old Saint-Jean, a must-visit district in Haut-Richelieu. In summer, the neighborhood comes alive from morning to night, becoming the city’s beating heart. Enjoy brunch on a sunny terrace, browse charming boutiques, or unwind along the Chambly Canal with a waterside stroll.
While you’re there, experience the living history of Old Saint-Jean with Foyer Légendaire, a new free immersive attraction. Inspired by traditional storytelling evenings but with a modern twist, it features captivating video capsules, light games, soundscapes and interactive narration.
A summer tradition: in August, the sky over Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu transforms into a living canvas as hot air balloons rise on the horizon. Highly anticipated each year, the International de montgolfière de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu runs from August 8–10 and 14–17, offering two weekends of aerial magic, large-scale music performances and family activities.
Nautical Escape
Ready to cast off? Head to Quai Ryan in Sainte-Anne-de-Sabrevois. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a paddling adventure or a fishing trip, this recreational hub is the perfect starting point. You can even rent an electric surfboard, a bike or a zodiac on-site. Younger visitors (and the young at heart) will love the free obstacle course.
On the opposite bank of the Richelieu River, a resort-like vibe awaits. Marina St-Tropez, celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, instantly puts you in vacation mode: waterfront terraces, volleyball courts, a pool, sunny cocktails… Hop aboard an Alo Richelieu boat taxi at Quai Ryan and arrive at the party in style.
