Saint-Joseph-du-Lac Travel Guide

Get to know the beautiful town of Saint-Joseph-du-Lac in Quebec, Canada. Discover its cultural and natural attractions, food, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Saint-Joseph-du-Lac is a small town in the Laurentians region of Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1855, the town is known for its rich history, beautiful scenery, and friendly locals. Located only 60 kilometers northwest of Montreal, Saint-Joseph-du-Lac is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for a relaxing escape from the city.

List of Places to Visit in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Église de Saint-Joseph-du-Lac - Visit the town’s beautiful church, built in the 19th century, and admire its unique architecture and historical importance.
  • Musée régional de la Rivière du Nord - Explore the museum’s exhibits on the history and culture of the Laurentians region, including artifacts from the First Nations and French colonizers.

Natural Attractions of Saint-Joseph-du-Lac: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc naturel du Ruisseau de Feuilles - Hike through this beautiful park, which features scenic trails, a lake, and picnic areas.
  • Golf Saint-Joseph-du-Lac - Enjoy a round of golf at this picturesque golf course, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Saint-Joseph-du-Lac is a great place to explore the great outdoors. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to discover:

  • Sentier du Ruisseau de Feuilles - This trail passes through Parc naturel du Ruisseau de Feuilles and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • La Route Verte - Join this famous bike trail and explore the Laurentians region on two wheels.

Best Things to Do in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac: Activities and Tours

  • Cidrerie et Verger Lacroix - Visit this orchard and cidery, and learn about the process of making cider. Don’t forget to taste some of their delicious apple products!
  • Ferme Quinn - This working farm offers fun activities for both kids and adults, including a petting zoo, tractor rides, and an impressive corn maze.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Day 1: Explore the town’s historical landmarks, including Église de Saint-Joseph-du-Lac and Musée régional de la Rivière du Nord.

Day 2: Discover the natural beauty of Parc naturel du Ruisseau de Feuilles and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Day 3: Play a round of golf at Golf Saint-Joseph-du-Lac and relax with a drink at the clubhouse.

Day 4: Learn about the process of making cider at Cidrerie et Verger Lacroix and enjoy some apple products.

Day 5: Visit Ferme Quinn and have fun with the activities, such as the petting zoo and corn maze.

Day 6: Bike along La Route Verte and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Laurentians.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the town’s charming streets, shops, and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pâté chinois - This classic Quebecois dish consists of layered potatoes, ground meat, and corn.
  • Tourtière - A meat pie traditionally served during the holidays.

Local Beverages

  • Cider - Saint-Joseph-du-Lac is known for its delicious apple cider, which can be found at Cidrerie et Verger Lacroix and other local stores.
  • Wine - The Laurentians region is home to several vineyards, such as Vignoble Rivière du Chêne, which produces award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Gîte La Charmeuse - This cozy bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a charming garden.
  • Auberge du Lac Morency - Stay in one of the beautiful cabins or suites at this lakeside resort, which features a spa, swimming pool, and outdoor activities.

What to Buy in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Apple products - Bring home some of the delicious cider, jams, and other apple products from Cidrerie et Verger Lacroix.
  • Local art - Explore the town’s shops and galleries and find unique pieces of art and crafts made by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Saint-Joseph-du-Lac is a predominantly French-speaking town with a rich cultural heritage. The locals are proud of their history and traditions and enjoy sharing them with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

The best time to visit Saint-Joseph-du-Lac is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are abundant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Do:

  • Learn a few French phrases to communicate better with the locals.
  • Explore the town’s historical and cultural landmarks.
  • Enjoy the delicious local cuisine and apple products.

Don’t:

  • Be rude or disrespectful to the locals or their traditions.
  • Ignore the natural beauty of the Laurentians region.

Safety and Health

Safety in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Saint-Joseph-du-Lac is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, it is always recommended to take basic safety precautions, such as locking your car and hotel room, when traveling.

Health in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

Saint-Joseph-du-Lac has a few medical clinics and pharmacies, but for more serious health issues, it is recommended to go to a hospital in nearby towns.

Getting to Saint-Joseph-du-Lac: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

  • Montreal-Trudeau International Airport - Located about 45 minutes from Saint-Joseph-du-Lac, this is the closest international airport.

Bus Stations Near Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

  • Saint-Eustache Bus Station - Located about 15 minutes from Saint-Joseph-du-Lac, this is the closest bus station.

Other Options

  • Car rental - Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the surrounding region.

How to Get Around in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac

The town is relatively small and walkable, but a car or bike is recommended to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Saint-Joseph-du-Lac: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Montreal - Visit the bustling city of Montreal, only an hour’s drive from Saint-Joseph-du-Lac.
  • Ski resorts - Explore the nearby ski resorts, such as Mont-Tremblant, which offers world-class skiing and winter activities.

Conclusion

Saint-Joseph-du-Lac is a charming town with a rich history, beautiful scenery, and plenty of activities and attractions to offer. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or an exciting adventure, this hidden gem is definitely worth a visit.

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