Less than an hour south of Montreal, the Haut-Richelieu region stretches along the Richelieu River, all the way to the shores of Lake Champlain. This vibrant corner of Montérégie has all the ingredients for a spontaneous summer getaway. Cycle through vineyards, spend a day on the water, enjoy an outdoor concert, savour local flavours or discover the region’s rich heritage. There’s something to check off every item on your summer bucket list!
Biking
Around Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, summer is all about biking. Scenic bike paths and road routes wind through farmland, heritage villages and picturesque views of the Richelieu River.
Several accessible routes and loops make it easy to explore the Haut-Richelieu region, including the Vallée-des-Forts Cycling Route, the Chambly Canal and La Montérégiade bike paths. Make Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu your home base, explore at your own pace, then return to enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere at the end of the day.
Good to know: The Holiday Inn Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, certified Bienvenue cyclistes!, is a great place to stay while exploring the region.
Forest Adventures
When you’re ready to take a break from the city, the Haut-Richelieu region welcomes you into its forests. Whether you prefer a peaceful walk through nature or an adrenaline-filled adventure high in the treetops, getting outdoors has never been easier.
At Arbraska Mont-Saint-Grégoire, adventure seekers can experience the forest from above on aerial courses through the trees. Nearby, uplå Mont-Saint-Grégoire — available by day or under the stars — invites visitors to rediscover their inner child with its network of giant trampolines. If a slower pace is more your style, Centre de plein air l’Estacade offers scenic trails, riverside views and wide-open spaces in Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix.
Craft Breweries and Vineyards
Along the region’s country roads, local flavours are never far away. Wineries, craft breweries, cider houses and countryside terraces invite you to savour the very best of what is grown and crafted here.
At Terre à Boire, a farm brewery in Saint-Blaise-sur-Richelieu, some visitors come for the craft beer while others stay for the warm atmosphere on its beautiful outdoor terrace. Just a short walk away, Domaine Amalgames welcomes guests to tour its vineyard and discover wines produced entirely on site. In Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Vignoble Le Mas des Patriotes also offers a true taste of Montérégie through guided tours and wine tastings.
On the water
You don’t have to travel hundreds of miles to feel like you’re on vacation. With the Richelieu River, the Chambly Canal and Lake Champlain surrounding the region, the Haut-Richelieu is filled with opportunities to enjoy life on the water. Visit its marinas, beaches and waterfronts to experience the laid-back atmosphere that comes with being by the water.
In Venise-en-Québec, O Lac offers a variety of watercraft rentals for exploring the vast expanse of Lake Champlain. At Quai Ryan, visitors enjoy not only the Richelieu River but also the beautifully landscaped green spaces along its banks.
Looking to extend your stay? The floating accommodations at Domaine Pourki and AloBerge offer a unique overnight experience lulled by the gentle sound of the water.
Festivities
Au mois d’août, l’International de montgolfières de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu transforme le ciel montérégien en un tableau saisissant. Pendant que les ballons colorés prennent leur envol, les festivaliers et festivalières vibrent au rythme des concerts, des activités pour toute la famille et des soirées qui se prolongent bien après le coucher du soleil. Every August, the International de montgolfière de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu transforms the Montérégie sky into a breathtaking spectacle. As colourful hot-air balloons take flight, festivalgoers enjoy concerts, family-friendly activities and lively evenings that continue long after sunset.
This festive spirit carries throughout the Haut-Richelieu summer season. From rodeos and outdoor performances to music nights, sporting events and festivals, there’s always a reason to gather and celebrate.
Local Flavours
If you enjoy agritourism experiences, Ferme du Mihouli offers something refreshingly different. Among other crops, the farm grows kiwi vines—a unique alternative to the traditional pick-your-own experience. Its café and farm shop showcase the very best of Montérégie’s local flavours. Throughout the summer, the farm comes alive with guest chef evenings, farm-to-table meals and wood-fired pizza tastings.
In Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Fromagerie Missiska is also well worth a visit. In addition to discovering the art of cheesemaking, you can browse a gourmet shop filled with local products that are perfect for an impromptu picnic or to bring a taste of the region home.
Culture and Heritage
Pour une sortie improvisée, direction le Vieux-Saint-Jean. Le secteur se prête autant à une promenade le long du canal de Chambly qu’à un arrêt dans les galeries d’art, les musées et les boutiques indépendantes. For a spontaneous outing, head to Vieux-Saint-Jean. This historic district is perfect for a stroll along the Chambly Canal or for browsing art galleries, museums and independent boutiques.
Many visitors enjoy stopping at Parc des Éclusiers to watch the boats pass through the locks. Another lively gathering place is Place publique du Vieux-Saint-Jean, which becomes the heart of outdoor concerts, festivals and community events throughout the summer.
Partnership between Tourisme Montérégie, Tourisme Haut-Richelieu and La Presse (2026).
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