Grenville Travel Guide

Explore Grenville, Quebec, Canada with this comprehensive travel guide featuring a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, must-try dishes, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Grenville

Nestled in Outaouais, in Quebec, in Canada, Grenville offers visitors a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions. With its stunning natural scenery, intriguing history, and welcoming locals, Grenville is an underrated gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, Grenville has something for everyone.

In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit in Grenville, the best hiking/biking routes, must-try dishes, where to stay, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Grenville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chutes-a-Bull: Explore the picturesque waterfall, which was once the site of a successful sawmill. The waterfall is a romantic spot for a picnic or just relax and take in the scenery.

  • Musée régional d’Argenteuil: Take a journey through the region’s history and culture at the Musée régional d’Argenteuil. The museum is home to over 25,000 artifacts, from ancient pottery to modern art.

  • La Maison de la culture et du patrimoine (Saint-André-d’Argenteuil): The charming house museum showcases the history and culture of the Saint-André-d’Argenteuil region. It also features temporary exhibits, art, and crafts.

Natural Attractions of Grenville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc national d’Oka: Just a short drive away from Grenville, this park offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to canoeing to rock climbing. Stunning views can be admired from the highest peak, Calvaire d’Oka.

  • Rivière Rouge: The winding, beautiful river is the perfect spot for a scenic drive or a swim in the summertime

  • Mount Foster: A breathtaking, forest-covered mountain with sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape, perfect for hiking or skiing depending on the season

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grenville

  • Sentiers du mont Oka: A trail, approximately 8 miles long, that takes hikers through the varied landscapes of Montagne d’Oka. The trail is ideal for hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, depending on the season.

  • Les Parcours de la Petite-Nation: A picturesque cycling path along the Petite-Nation River with stunning views of rocky cliffs and peaceful beaches.

  • Sentier nature La Carrière: A short, 1.7-mile trail that offers a scenic and easy introduction to Grenville’s natural beauty, with a mix of forest and river views.

Best Things to Do in Grenville: Activities and Tours

  • Le Vieux Kanada: A Canadian heritage spot with a recreated village from different Canadian eras, showcasing Canada’s history and showcasing different traditions like maple syrup-making and a traditional blacksmith’s forge.

  • Bleu Lavande: Stroll through the fragrant lavender fields which are typically in bloom during the summer season.

  • La Clef des Champs: A locally owned farm offering organic fruits and vegetables during the summertime. Visitors can pick their own crop and enjoy delicious homemade apple cider donuts and ice cream.

Week-Long Itinerary for Grenville

Day Activity
Day 1 Hike the Sentiers du mont Oka trail
Day 2 Visit Chutes-a-Bull and have a picnic by the falls
Day 3 Explore Musée régional d’Argenteuil and learn about local history
Day 4 Bike along Les Parcours de la Petite-Nation and enjoy scenic views
Day 5 Discover Le Vieux Kanada’s Canadian heritage village
Day 6 Shopping for local products and souvenirs
Day 7 Relax and take in the beauty of Mount Foster and enjoy a skiing excursion

Food and Drink Scene of Grenville

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: A Canadian staple dish made of frites covered in gravy and cheese curds, that can be found all around the province of Quebec.

  • Tourtière: A traditional French-Canadian meat pie, typically prepared around the holiday season, can be found throughout Grenville.

  • Maple Syrup: Quebec is famous for its maple syrup, which can be used in a variety of dishes but especially in dishes like pancakes and waffles.

Local Beverages

  • Unibroue: A brewery in nearby Chambly, Quebec famous for producing delicious Belgian-style ales.

  • Ice Cider: A crisp, sweet cider made from apples grown in the region, which is perfect for a refreshing drink during the summer season.

Where to Stay in Grenville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Auberge les Sorbiers: A cozy guesthouse with an outdoor pool and a beautiful flower garden, perfect for weekend trips.

  • Auberge Le Vieux Foyer: A three-star hotel in nearby Val-David, an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway. The hotel is located in a scenic spot, with access to winter activities like snowshoeing and skiing.

What to Buy in Grenville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maple Syrup Products: From the sweeter maple syrup itself to maple syrup jelly, maple butter, maple syrup candies, and more.

  • Local Cheeses: From Camembert to Swiss to cheddar, the region offers a wealth of delicious cheeses to take home.

  • Handmade Soap: Handmade soaps with organic ingredients, inspired by the region’s local flora.

Local Culture and Customs of Grenville

Grenville is known for its French-Canadian heritage with a mix of Indigenous Canadian influence playing a part in its distinct culture and traditions. People from the region are friendly, welcoming, and adhere to traditional values.

Best Time to Visit Grenville

The best time to visit Grenville is in the summer season when the rivers are ideal for water-based activities and the outdoor trails are in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grenville

Do:

  • Be respectful of the environment and dispose of any litter in designated areas.

  • Respect the cultural and traditional differences of the local people.

  • Take part in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, canoeing, or kayaking.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

  • Don’t litter and protect the natural beauty of the environment.

  • Don’t forget to experience and enjoy the local cuisine.

Safety and Health

Safety in Grenville

Grenville is generally a safe place to visit. However, visitors should be cautious when hiking or biking on trails and follow the designated routes.

Health in Grenville

Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance during their stay in Grenville, as Quebec has a different healthcare system than other Canadian provinces. All visitors should ensure they’re up to date with all routine vaccinations.

Getting to Grenville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Grenville

  • Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport: The closest and most convenient airport, located just over an hour away from Grenville.

  • Ottawa International Airport: A bit farther, but good for flying in from cities across Canada and the United States.

Bus Stations Near Grenville

  • Gare d’Oka: Served by the CIT Laurentides transit system that connects the region to Montreal and beyond.

  • Gare de la Rivière-du-Nord: Provides daily bus services from Montreal.

Other Options

Car rental services are available at Montreal or Ottawa airport, which is a popular option for visitors who want to reach Grenville at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Grenville

A car is the most convenient mode of transport to explore Grenville. Many of the natural attractions and hiking routes are not served by public transportation, so a car is the best way to get around. Trains are not a convenient mode of transport for visitors as the train service passes through nearby cities, not stopping at Grenville.

Where to Go Next from Grenville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mont-Tremblant: A popular year-round destination for skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities, and home to a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.

  • Ottawa: The capital city of Canada, which is just over an hour’s drive from Grenville and offers a wealth of tourist attractions and cultural experiences.

Conclusion

Grenville is an enchanting destination with natural landscapes, a rich culture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. From stunning hiking/biking trails and scenic views to must-visit museums and historical sites, Grenville has plenty of reasons to visit. With this guide, you’re equipped to explore the very best this charming Quebec town has to offer!

The canal seen from the Canal Bridge The canal seen from the Canal Bridge Long-Sault Bridge spanning the Ottawa River Long-Sault Bridge spanning the Ottawa River Rustic house on the edge of the Grenville canal Rustic house on the edge of the Grenville canal Rue du Canal and rue Principale in Old Grenville with the church in the background Rue du Canal and rue Principale in Old Grenville with the church in the background View of the park in the entrance area of the Grenville Canal View of the park in the entrance area of the Grenville Canal Interprovincial reception signage infrastructure in Grenville Interprovincial reception signage infrastructure in Grenville Heritage House in Grenville Heritage House in Grenville Grenville Library and Youth Centre Grenville Library and Youth Centre