What if balance was simply about combining the buzz of city life with the peaceful allure of rural landscapes? When all these pleasures are within easy reach in the same beautiful corner of the world, the promise of an unforgettable vacation quickly becomes reality.
Cityside
Learn and be amazed
With a history intertwined with industrial heritage and human ingenuity, the Beauharnois-Salaberry RCM offers curious visitors a host of unexpected cultural discoveries. Start at the MUSO — Musée de société des Deux-Rives, a cultural venue known for its surprising creative approach. The museum revisits the living history of the region, notably through MOCO: The Fabric of a City. This permanent exhibition explores how Salaberry-de-Valleyfield was built around the largest textile factory of its time.
Next, head to the centre d’interprétation de la centrale hydroélectrique de Beauharnois, an impressive engineering achievement still running today. As the longest and most powerful run-of-river generating station in Québec, it stretches over a kilometer and is equipped with 36 turbine-generator units. It’s the perfect place to (re)discover the secrets of hydroelectricity.
Where to stay?
Spend the night at l’Hôtel MOCO, located in the heritage building that once housed the Montreal Cotton Company. Fully renovated, the hotel still preserves traces of its original vocation and proudly celebrates its industrial legacy.
Experience nature your way
Cycling, hiking, water sports, fishing, wildlife observation — here, nature becomes your playground. Surrounded by waterways and farmland, the Beauharnois-Salaberry regional park is ideal for an outdoor getaway. Its 72 kilometre multi-use trail welcomes cyclists, walkers, runners, and birdwatchers in search of rare species.
Also, head to the island oasis of the parc régional des Îles-de-Saint-Timothée regional park. Want to relax on a sandy beach? Take a dip in clear waters? Or enjoy water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding? Every vacationer will find their dream program here.
Where to stay?
Visiting the area in an RV? La Halte des Plaisanciers in Beauharnois-Salaberry regional park offers 22 unserviced campsites in a charming setting, all at a low cost. No reservations — first come, first served!
Events not to miss
A staple of Québec’s summer calendar, the Valleyfield Regattas, are celebrating their 85th edition this year, once again promising unmatched thrills on the water. These exciting hydroplane races are unique in North America. On land, Valspec’s artistic programming offers equally electrifying evenings.
This summer, the Festival de l’Afrique à Beauharnois in Beauharnois invites you to enjoy a sensory journey. Rhythmic music, dancing, delicious cuisine, fashion, and art: the fourth edition of this annual event celebrates the richness of the African continent and its communities.
Countryside charm
5 agritourism stops just minutes from urban centers
Miel Nature : Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, this meadery welcomes you with more than 89 products from its extensive apiary. Book a guided tour to discover the fascinating work of bees.
Le Domaine du Paysan : This horticultural enterprise specializes in the production and processing of rosemary. Its artisans craft an array of fine products from this aromatic plant.
Vignoble J.O. Montpetit et Fils : Cultivating vines for 15 years, this local winery offers tastings of a dozen wines produced on the estate.
Canard et compagnie : Make a gourmet stop at this fine grocery store specializing in duck-based products and prepared dishes. Foie gras, rillettes, terrines, and other delights await you.
Vignoble Cortellino : Passionate about viticulture, the Cortellino family invites you to discover the authentic character of their exceptional wines, in a setting that will transport you under the Italian sun.
