Starting east of the city of Québec, it is one of the oldest thoroughfares in North America. It showcases a wealth of built heritage—ancestral homes, chapels and vegetable cellars, the precursor of the refrigerator—and many cultural attractions.
57 km
The New France Route is great by bike, not just by car. In fact, between Old Québec and Côte-de-Beaupré, the route is also referred to as the Marie-Hélène-Prémont Bike Trail.
Unforgettable moments
Regions
The city of Québec
The L’Îlot des Palais historic and archeological site features 18th century cellars, vestiges of the Intendant's palace, breweries, a prison, shops... It's also the starting point for many GeoRallies, including the Beer Trail.
Managed by Sépaq, Parc de la Chute-Montmorency will be a delightful surprise for anyone who doesn’t know that the water falls are a full 30 m higher than Niagara Falls! Admire the view from the suspension bridge, zipline or other vantage points...
Château-Richer, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
Be sure to take the New France Route (not Boulevard Sainte-Anne) to reach the Aux Trois Couvents cultural discovery centre! Comprised of three convents, this site is the former Centre d’interprétation de la Côte-de-Beaupré.
Dedicated to Saint Anne, the shrine is the oldest pilgrimage site in North America, founded in 1658. Visitors can admire the Basilica’s architecture, the artistic masterpieces, the stained-glass windows, and the sculptures along the Way of the Cross.
Saint-Joachim
On the way to Cap-Tourmente, visit the La Grande Ferme archaeological and historic site located on a former farm dating back to the 17th century. Learn about the crops that were grown in the New France era.
In the spring and fall, Cap-Tourmente attracts thousands of snow geese. But many other migratory bird species are also yours to discover as you stroll the wildlife reserve’s 30 km of trails.
