Home to the largest cycling network in Québec and close to Montréal, the Montérégie region is well suited to both leisurely rides and longer cycling getaways. Accessible early in the season and adapted to cyclists of all levels, the region also stands out for the abundance of experiences found along its routes: orchards, vineyards, local producers, great restaurants and historic attractions follow one another along the way. Here are 3 cycling getaways to enjoy bucolic scenery and gourmet stops at your own pace.
With the St. Lawrence River as a travelling companion, a bike ride is anything but monotonous. Connecting Varennes to Sainte-Catherine, La Riveraine cycling path offers a scenic route through lush parks and historic sites. Accessible from the bridges, through Montérégie’s vast cycling network or via river shuttles departing from Montréal, it is a great destination for a day trip near the city.
Along your way…
Along this route of more than 50 km, there are many worthwhile stops. In the heart of the La Prairie historic site, the ArchéoMusée Roussillon RS offers a fascinating journey through 5,000 years of history and artifacts. Hungry? Head to Saint-Lambert for a stop at El Gordo‘s terrace, where Mexican flavours and sunshine await. Finally, in Varennes, Domaine du Fleuve vineyard offers a more contemplative stop: a tasting and a stroll among the vines before getting back in the saddle.
Entrance to the Domaine du Fleuve vineyard for cyclists directly via La Riveraine
These attractions and businesses are all Fièrement Vélo!ambassadors! Throughout Montérégie, look for participating locations along your route to enjoy a warm welcome and services adapted to cyclists.
2. A Gourmet and Local Getaway
Old Saint-Jean
Winding through woodlands and farmland, La Montérégiade offers 48 km of mostly paved cycling path, where the rural scenery quickly creates a feeling of escape. Easy to ride and connected to several of the region’s cycling routes, this former railway line is well suited to both a day trip and a longer stay. Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu also makes an excellent base camp for exploring Montérégie by bike.
Along your way…
With its restaurants, small shops, chocolate workshop, fine food stores and Éclusiers Park, the Old Saint-Jean sector is a lively starting point for setting out from Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Just a few pedal strokes away, Les Berges de Saint-Jean restaurant offers a pleasant detour to enjoy the waterfront over a delicious meal. A little farther along the route, the tasting room and terrace at Lagabière microbrewery are also worth a stop for a well-deserved break.
Entirely laid out on cycling paths, the Centre-Est cycling loop is among the safest long-distance routes in the region. Whether starting from Quartier DIX30 or Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, the route crosses some of Montérégie’s most emblematic landscapes, including cultivated fields and panoramas dominated by Mont Rougemont and Mont Yamaska.
Mount Rougemont
Approximately 125 km long, the loop is a great introduction to cycling tourism. It also makes it possible to extend the adventure by connecting to other circuits, including RÉSEAU VÉLO YAMASKA and La Campagnarde cycling path.
La Campagnarde bike path
Along your way…
Spread the ride over several days to make the most of the tourist attractions along the way. In Rougemont, Cidrerie Michel Jodoin welcomes cyclists for a cider tasting in the heart of the orchards. The same goes for Coteau St-Paul vinyard and cider house, which offers an epicurean experience against a backdrop of agricultural landscapes.
Coteau St-Paul vineyard and cider house
The loop also runs alongside the Fort Chambly National Historic Site, an essential stop for diving into the Richelieu River’s history. From there, continue your ride through Old Chambly, where chocolate shops, microbreweries and artisanal bakeries are among the many great places to discover.
Fort Chambly National Historic Site
Planning a biking getaway in Montérégie this summer?
With its interconnected cycling network spanning more than 1,000 km, Montérégie has a well-established reputation as a destination for two-wheeled escapes. Thanks to the region’s gentle terrain, as well as its safe and well-marked roads and cycling paths, the network is accessible to cyclists of all levels.
Pré Ferré – La véloroute de Roussillon RS bike path
Start planning your stay by browsing Better by Bike, the cycling tourism magazine featuring the region’s dedicated cycling paths, road circuits and loops.
