Saint-Étienne-des-Grès Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Saint-Étienne-des-Grès, a beautiful town situated in the heart of Quebec, Canada. Discover its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, places to stay and more.


Introduction to Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

Saint-Étienne-des-Grès is a charming town located in the Mauricie region of Quebec, Canada. Situated in central Quebec, it is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including dense forests and serene lakes. The town is named after the patron saint of steelworkers, Saint Stephen.

Saint-Étienne-des-Grès is known for its traditional architecture and rich heritage, which is reflected in its numerous museums and cultural attractions. Visitors can also experience a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking routes, boating, and fishing.

List of Places to Visit in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musée des Religions du Monde: This museum boasts over 1,200 exhibits from different religions and cultures from around the world. Visitors can learn about the customs, traditions, and beliefs of people from different parts of the globe.

  • Maison de la Culture et du Patrimoine: Housed in a historic building, this cultural center showcases the local art, customs, and history of the town. It hosts numerous exhibitions, concerts, and educational events throughout the year.

  • Domaine seigneurial de Sainte-Anne: This 17th-century estate offers a glimpse into the life of the seigneurs, the feudal lords who controlled the land in Quebec during the colonial era. Visitors can tour the beautiful gardens and buildings, which include a flour mill and a chapel.

Natural Attractions of Saint-Étienne-des-Grès: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc national de la Mauricie: This national park encompasses over 536 square kilometers of forests, lakes, and wildlife. Visitors can explore the park through various hiking trails, go camping, or enjoy water activities such as kayaking and fishing.

  • Lac-aux-Sables: This stunning lake offers a variety of recreational activities, such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails around the lake.

  • Réserve faunique Mastigouche: This wildlife reserve is home to a wide range of animal species, including moose, black bears, and beavers. Visitors can go hunting, fishing, or hiking in the reserve, or enjoy a guided nature tour.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

  • Le Chemin des Coudriers: This 7-kilometer hiking trail in Parc national de la Mauricie offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and lake. The trail is moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for both experienced and novice hikers.

  • Boucle des Rapides: This 22-kilometer bike route takes visitors along the beautiful Saint-Maurice River, passing through picturesque villages and breathtaking scenery. The trail is considered easy to moderate in difficulty and offers multiple rest areas along the way.

Best Things to Do in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès: Activities and Tours

  • Guided fishing tours: Visitors can hire a local guide to take them on a fishing tour in one of the many lakes and rivers in the area. Guides can provide equipment and knowledge of the best local fishing spots.

  • Boat tours: Guided boat tours are a great way to explore the scenic lakes and rivers of Saint-Étienne-des-Grès. Visitors can learn about the history and ecology of the area as they enjoy the stunning views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

Day 1: Visit Domaine seigneurial de Sainte-Anne Day 2: Tour the Musée des Religions du Monde and enjoy a picnic at Parc national de la Mauricie Day 3: Take a guided boat tour of Lac-aux-Sables Day 4: Explore the historic Maison de la Culture et du Patrimoine Day 5: Go hiking along the Chemin des Coudriers trail Day 6: Spend the day fishing with a local guide Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tourtière: This traditional meat pie is a staple of Québécois cuisine. Made with pork, beef, or game meat, it is typically served during the holidays.

  • Poutine: A beloved Canadian dish, poutine consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. It can be found at many local restaurants and food trucks in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès.

Local Beverages

  • Unibroue: This Quebec-based brewery is known for its range of craft beers, including the popular La Fin du Monde and Trois Pistoles.

  • Ice Cider: This sweet and flavorful apple cider is a unique local specialty of Quebec. It is best enjoyed with dessert or as a digestif.

Where to Stay in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Auberge du Lac-aux-Sables: This charming inn is situated next to the beautiful Lac-aux-Sables. It features cozy rooms and suites with lake views, a restaurant, and a spa.

  • Gîte de la Ferme: This farmhouse-style B&B offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities and farm-to-table breakfast. It is located in the heart of the town, near many cultural and outdoor attractions.

What to Buy in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maple Syrup: Quebec is known for its high-quality maple syrup, which can be found at many local shops and markets.

  • Artisanal Cheese: The region is also famous for its artisanal cheese, including cheddar, brie, and blue cheese.

Local Culture and Customs of Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

The local culture and customs of Saint-Étienne-des-Grès are deeply rooted in its Catholic heritage. The town celebrates many religious holidays throughout the year, including Easter and Christmas. Visitors should be respectful of these traditions and customs, particularly when visiting churches and other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

The best time to visit Saint-Étienne-des-Grès is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities and festivals during this time. Winter also offers a unique experience, with opportunities for ice fishing, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions
  • Enjoy the beautiful natural scenery
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Disrupt local wildlife
  • Disrespect religious monuments and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

Saint-Étienne-des-Grès is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should still exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.

Health in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance before traveling to Saint-Étienne-des-Grès. The town has a local hospital, Centre de Santé et de Services Sociaux de l’Énergie, which provides medical assistance to visitors in case of an emergency.

Getting to Saint-Étienne-des-Grès: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

The nearest international airport to Saint-Étienne-des-Grès is Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, located approximately 160 kilometers away. Visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the town.

Bus Stations Near Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

The closest bus station to Saint-Étienne-des-Grès is located in Trois-Rivières, approximately 20 kilometers away. Visitors can take a taxi or rent a car from here to reach the town.

Other Options

Driving to Saint-Étienne-des-Grès is also an option, and visitors can rent a car from Montreal or Quebec City.

How to Get Around in Saint-Étienne-des-Grès

The best way to get around Saint-Étienne-des-Grès is by car or bike. Visitors can rent a car from nearby cities, or bring their own vehicle. Biking is also a great way to explore the town and its surroundings. Public transportation options, such as buses, are limited.

Where to Go Next from Saint-Étienne-des-Grès: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Trois-Rivières: This historic city is located approximately 20 kilometers away from Saint-Étienne-des-Grès. It offers a range of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and a beautiful old town.

  • Shawinigan: This city is located approximately 30 kilometers away from Saint-Étienne-des-Grès and is known for its natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Parc Nationale de la Mauricie, or visit local museums and artisan shops.

Conclusion

Saint-Étienne-des-Grès offers visitors a unique experience that combines rich history, cultural attractions, and stunning natural beauty. Whether visitors are interested in outdoor activities, cultural events, or trying new foods, there is something for everyone in this charming Quebec town.