Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and things to do in Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil, Quebec, Canada, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is a charming municipality located in Montérégie, in Southwestern Quebec, Canada. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine lakes, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Named after Saint Matthew, the Evangelist, Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil has a population of approximately 6,000 people. The town’s rich history can be traced back to the mid-17th century, when the first French settlers arrived in the area.

With its picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks, Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

List of Places to Visit in Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Le Chenail Cultural Center

Le Chenail Cultural Center is a must-visit destination for those interested in arts and culture. The center features an art gallery, a museum, and a performance hall, showcasing local talent and historical artifacts.

Église Saint-Mathieu

Église Saint-Mathieu is a stunning Roman Catholic church dating back to the early 20th century. The church’s Gothic Revival architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows make it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Moulin Seigneurial de Beloeil

Once a flour mill, Moulin Seigneurial de Beloeil is now a museum showcasing the rich history of the region’s milling industry. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the mill at their own pace.

Natural Attractions of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mont Saint-Hilaire

Mont Saint-Hilaire is a popular hiking destination, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain features over 25 kilometers of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult.

Duquette Park

Duquette Park is a beautiful natural park located on the shores of the Richelieu River. The park features hiking and biking trails, as well as picnic areas and a playground.

Lac Hertel

Lac Hertel is a picturesque lake located in the heart of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and is a popular spot for boating and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Mont Saint-Bruno National Park

Mont Saint-Bruno National Park is located just a short drive from Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil and features over 30 kilometers of hiking and biking trails. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Les Sentiers du Mont-Beloeil

Les Sentiers du Mont-Beloeil offers over 14 kilometers of well-maintained hiking trails, showcasing the region’s natural beauty. The trails range from easy to difficult and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil: Activities and Tours

Richelieu River Cruise

Embark on a scenic boat tour along the Richelieu River, taking in the picturesque scenery and historic landmarks of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil.

Horseback Riding at Centre Équestre des Hautes Terres

Experience the beauty of the region on horseback with a guided tour at Centre Équestre des Hautes Terres. The tour takes visitors through lush forests and rolling hills, offering a unique perspective of the town’s natural beauty.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Day Itinerary
1 Visit Le Chenail Cultural Center and explore the art gallery and museum.
2 Hike to the summit of Mont Saint-Hilaire and enjoy the breathtaking views of the region.
3 Explore the Moulin Seigneurial de Beloeil and learn about the history of the milling industry in the region.
4 Embark on a scenic boat tour along the Richelieu River.
5 Visit Duquette Park for a day of hiking and picnicking.
6 Horseback ride through the lush forests of Centre Équestre des Hautes Terres.
7 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine at one of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil’s many restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Must-Try Dishes

Poutine

A classic Canadian dish, poutine is a must-try when visiting Quebec. Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil offers many local restaurants serving up this delicious dish.

Tourtière

Tourtière is a popular meat pie that originated in Quebec. The filling typically includes ground pork, beef, and veal, as well as warm spices such as cinnamon and cloves.

Local Beverages

Ice Cider

A specialty of Quebec, ice cider is made by freezing apples on the tree, resulting in a concentrated juice that is then fermented.

Craft Beer

Quebec is known for its craft beer scene, and Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is no exception. Be sure to sample the local brews at one of the town’s many breweries.

Where to Stay in Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Auberge Montagnard

Auberge Montagnard is a cozy bed and breakfast located in the heart of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil. The inn boasts comfortable rooms and delicious breakfasts.

Motel R-100

Motel R-100 offers affordable accommodations for travelers on a budget. The motel is located just a short drive from Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil and offers comfortable rooms with all the necessary amenities.

What to Buy in Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Artisanal Cheese

Quebec is known for its locally-made artisanal cheeses, and Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is no exception. Be sure to pick up a wheel of delicious cheese to bring home as a souvenir.

Handmade Pottery

Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is home to many talented potters. Be sure to visit one of the local pottery studios to pick up a unique handmade piece for your home.

Local Culture and Customs of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Quebec is known for its unique culture, and Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is no exception. Be sure to explore the town’s rich history and cultural landmarks to get a sense of the local way of life.

Best Time to Visit Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

The best time to visit Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are plentiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Do:

  • Explore the town’s rich history by visiting its museums and historical landmarks.

  • Sample the local cuisine, including classic Canadian dishes like poutine and tourtière.

  • Take advantage of the town’s many outdoor activities, including hiking and horseback riding.

Don’t:

  • Leave without exploring the region’s natural beauty, including Mont Saint-Hilaire and Duquette Park.

  • Forget to bring home a unique souvenir, such as locally-made pottery or artisanal cheese.

  • Miss out on the opportunity to learn about the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is generally a safe destination for travelers. Visitors should take the usual precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Visitors to Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil should ensure they have medical insurance before traveling. Medical facilities are available in the region in case of an emergency.

Getting to Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

The closest airport to Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, located approximately 40 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is easily accessible by bus, with several bus stations located within the region.

Other Options

Renting a car is a convenient option for travelers who wish to explore the region at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil

The best way to get around Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is by car. Rental cars are available in the region, and several taxi and rideshare services operate within the town.

Where to Go Next from Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Montreal

The vibrant city of Montreal is located just a short drive from Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil and is home to many cultural landmarks and attractions, including the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Montreal Botanical Garden.

Quebec City

The historic city of Quebec City is located approximately 250 kilometers from Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil and is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in history and culture. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its picturesque streets and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is a unique and charming destination located in the heart of Montérégie, in Southwestern Quebec. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, the town offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural landmarks, or local cuisine, Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Quebec.

Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil-Welcome panel at the corner of Trudeau and Bernard-Pilon streets in May 2022 Saint-Mathieu-de-Beloeil-Welcome panel at the corner of Trudeau and Bernard-Pilon streets in May 2022 link= link=