McMasterville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in McMasterville, Quebec with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to McMasterville

Located in Montérégie, Southwestern Quebec, McMasterville is a small town that offers a charm unique to its own. This small town may not be known for its glamour and nightlife, but it definitely doesn’t fall short on things to do and places to see.

With its beautiful parks, breathtaking hiking trails, and rich cultural history, McMasterville is a hidden gem that every traveler should experience at least once.

List of Places to Visit in McMasterville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visiting McMasterville is like taking a step back in time. You can learn about the area’s history and culture by visiting its historical sites and museums.

One must-visit spot is the Centre d’art de McMasterville. Here, visitors can experience various types of art, including dance, music, and theater. The Centre d’art is an excellent place to learn and observe the art of Quebec’s local artists.

The Boucherville Islands National Park is also a destination of cultural significance and historical importance in McMasterville. This park has a collection of historical buildings, including the Maison-Ragueneau and the Maison de l’Ile.

Natural Attractions of McMasterville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

McMasterville is a nature lover’s paradise. The town boasts several gorgeous parks and beautiful hiking and biking trails that are both challenging and rewarding.

One such trail is the Sentier de la Mairie, which is a 2.5-kilometer trail that winds through the beautiful landscapes of McMasterville. The trail is an easy one, perfect for nature walks, bird watching or enjoying the view of the river.

Another iconic natural attraction in McMasterville is the Parc Jardins-du-Précieux-Sang. A slice of heaven in McMasterville, this park is the perfect spot for a family picnic or a quiet afternoon in nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of McMasterville

McMasterville is a haven for hikers and bikers. The town’s many trails offer a wide range of difficulty levels and scenic views.

The Sentier de l’Homme can offer a challenging trek for the adventurous hiker. This trail runs along the river, through the forest, and offers astounding vistas. The rocky terrain and hilly climbs make for an exciting hike.

For the bikers, the Parcours des Anses trail offers an unforgettable experience. The trail is approximately 45 kilometers long, and bikers will get to enjoy the stunning views of the river-front along the way.

Best Things to Do in McMasterville: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history buff, McMasterville has something to offer to everyone.

One excellent activity to try in McMasterville is kayaking. Kayaking in the river’s calm waters is an excellent way to explore the town’s waterways. It’s a perfect way to find peace in the town, especially as you paddle away from the bustling city beyond.

For those who are looking to relax and unwind, one can look for the Spa Nordique on the island of St. Bernard. They allow you to soak in the hot tubs and relax by the fire.

Week-Long Itinerary for McMasterville

McMasterville has an intense and extremely appealing itinerary for the vacation of a lifetime.

Day 1: Begin your stay with a casual stroll through McMasterville Park and the Sentier de l’Homme.

Day 2: Rent a kayak and paddle upstream on the Richelieu River to fully experience McMasterville’s peacefulness.

Day 3: Head to the famous Parcours des Anses and see the stunning river views.

Day 4: Experience the culture of the town and visit the local galleries and museums.

Day 5: Opt for a picnic with the family at Parc des Patriotes or Parc Jardins-du-Précieux-Sang.

Day 6: Hike the beautiful trails of the Chateauguay Valley, just an hour’s drive from McMasterville.

Day 7: Take in the town’s history and learn about Quebec culture as you visit one of the local historical sites.

Food and Drink Scene of McMasterville

McMasterville is a quaint, small town, but its food and drink scene remains to be impressive.

Must-Try Dishes

One must-try dish in McMasterville is the poutine, typically composed of fries, cheese curds, and gravy. A popular spot to taste this delicious dish is the Casse Croute Loulou Gaufré.

Another favorite among locals is the smoked meat sandwich. The infamous Schwartz’s Deli offers this deli-style sandwich, a staple in the region’s cultural identity. The meat is slow-cooked and smoked to perfection, a must-try for meat lovers.

Local Beverages

Quench your thirst with local micro-breweries and cideries’ creations. Supporting local breweries is a great way to experience the lesser-known delicacies of Quebec’s beer scene.

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

From cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels, there are several accommodation options available in McMasterville.

One such option is Les Suites de la Montagne, which offers luxurious, comfortable suites with beautiful views of the city.

Those on a budget can opt for the Auberge l’Outarde, a cozy guesthouse that offers a comfortable and welcoming stay while being very affordable in price.

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

McMasterville is a small town, but you can bring a piece of this charming community back home with you!

One such item to purchase is locally produced fruit jams, cheese, and sausages. Sourcing such products through small local shops is one way to support local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of McMasterville

The culture of McMasterville is unique and deeply embedded in its residents. The people of McMasterville are friendly, open-minded, and passionate about the town and its heritage.

The official language of Quebec is French, and McMasterville is no exception. Visitors will notice the unmistakable French influence in the town’s architecture and cuisine.

Best Time to Visit McMasterville

The best time to visit McMasterville is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

The fall season is also a great time to visit McMasterville, as the colors transform the area and it becomes an ideal romantic getaway.

Do’s and Don’ts of McMasterville

Do:

  • Explore the trails and natural beauty of the region.
  • Take time to explore the town’s cultural sites and historical landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Skip the chance to experience locally made cheese, jams, and sausages.
  • Overdo it with the poutine and smoked meat sandwiches.

Safety and Health

Safety in McMasterville

McMasterville is a safe and welcoming town. The crime rate is low, and the town’s locals are friendly and more than happy to offer assistance if needed.

Visitors are advised to take normal precautions while exploring the town’s natural attractions, such as wearing proper hiking equipment and considerate of grounds with slippery terrain.

Health in McMasterville

McMasterville has excellent health care facilities and services. The Clinique Médicale Familiale des Patriotes or the Boucherville CLSC provide quick and efficient health care treatment to tourists.

Getting to McMasterville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near McMasterville

The Montreal-Trudeau Airport is the nearest airport to McMasterville, which is approximately 45 minutes drive away from the town.

Bus Stations Near McMasterville

There are bus service providers such as the STM that offer direct service from Montreal to McMasterville.

Other Options

Renting a car is also a viable option, as the town can be easily accessed by highways 20, 30, and 116.

How to Get Around in McMasterville

McMasterville is a small town that can easily be explored on foot, bike, and car. The local buses service local towns, making transport within the region more streamlined and easy.

Where to Go Next from McMasterville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Boucherville Islands National Park and Mont-Saint-Bruno are only a few kilometers from McMasterville, offering more spots for hikes, camping or exploration.

Montreal is another popular nearby destination that combines both urban and natural scenery. With its stunning Old Town and easy access, it can make for a perfect day trip.

Conclusion

McMasterville has managed to showcase itself as a fascinating, and beautiful town worth every visit. Whether you’re an adventurer looking to explore hidden gems off-the-beaten-path or a history buff wanting to trace the town’s unique heritage, McMasterville has something for everyone.

With its scenic atmosphere, delicious food scene, and friendly locals, this small town is a must-visit destination for any traveler who wants to experience the hidden side of Canada’s culture and history.

Right face of the Sacré-Coeur-de-Jésus Church in McMasterville in 2019 Right face of the Sacré-Coeur-de-Jésus Church in McMasterville in 2019 View of Route 116 in McMasterville, from the coin of rue Bernard-Pilon (Beloeil boundary), in May 2022. View of Route 116 in McMasterville, from the coin of rue Bernard-Pilon (Beloeil boundary), in May 2022. View of route 223 in McMasterville, along the west bank of the Richelieu river, from the intersection of rue Bernard-Pilon View of route 223 in McMasterville, along the west bank of the Richelieu river, from the intersection of rue Bernard-Pilon View from rue Bernard-Pilon separating McMasterville and Beloeil, from the intersection of route 223 to McMasterville. View from rue Bernard-Pilon separating McMasterville and Beloeil, from the intersection of route 223 to McMasterville. Gare ferroviaire d'EXO à McMasterville en 2019 Gare ferroviaire d'EXO à McMasterville en 2019