A DAY IN THE AUTUMNAL COUNTRYSIDE OF SAINT-EUSTACHE

- Marjolaine Ferron

UNE JOURNÉE DANS LA CAMPAGNE AUTOMNALE DE SAINT-EUSTACHE||A DAY IN THE AUTUMNAL COUNTRYSIDE OF SAINT-EUSTACHE
Yes, we are very capable of organizing a nice tour in the Saint-Eustache area! I promise you, our little countryside is more than charming, thanks to the landscapes and the beautiful businesses here! Because we are so full of agrotourism sites nearby, we can easily create a circuit to relax... just a few minutes away from the city. Here are the stops to make if you are in the area!

 

1. Centre d’interprétation de la courge

This is probably the activity of autumn! Our friends at the Centre d'Interprétation de la Courge have put on a lot of activities to enjoy the cooler weather in nature, on a beautiful site in Saint-Joseph-du-Lac. It is close to La Maison Lavande & it's a real pleasure to learn more about squash culture, to taste their products and to get a bottle of their vineyard (on the neighbouring land)!

My must: squash crisps (available at their shop or at their bistro)
More information here: https://centredelacourge.com

 

2. Le verger Joannette

It belongs to Daniel's family and is one of the few orchards to have its organic certification. This is a beautiful place that offers U-pick with ease! With their beautiful kiosk in front of the orchard, the family welcomes you every day.

My must: organic apples (it's crazy to say that there has been no application of chemicals for years on the earth!)
More information here: http://vergerjoannette.ca/en/

 

3. Vergers Lafrance

If you're looking for an orchard near here that offers so much for the kids, you can stop looking. Apple picking is such an accessible & charming family activity! Let's enjoy it!

My must: apple cakes (especially hot!)
More information here: http://www.lesvergerslafrance.com/en/

 

4. Vignoble Rivière du Chêne

This is the closest vineyard to La Maison and the facilities are amazing. The winery is charming, the store is welcoming and the tours are enriching. You can take the opportunity to stock up on local products & visit their little bistro!

My must: The guided tour (there are several packages depending on the experience you want!)
More information here: https://www.vignobleriviereduchene.ca

 

5. Nid’Otruches

People do not believe us when we tell them that one of our neighbors is breeding ostriches. But yes! And it's great to visit the farm with kids. The small shop on site offers derivative products for "epicurious".

My must: The visit of the nursery (ado-ra-ble!)
More information here: https://nidotruche.com

 

6. Ferme Roland Cloutier

The Roland Cloutier farm is the most adorable kiosk of fruits and vegetables that you will meet on your way to La Maison. I promise that it is not because the Cloutier family is part of my in-laws that I like them as much. In season, I go there at least three times a week to succumb to the freshness of the soil or pies cooked by Carole ... Ouch!

My must: pies cooked by Carole (you will not believe it.)
More information here: https://www.fermerolandcloutier.com

 

7. Maison Lavande

That's our family business. And it's a wonderful time to come and visit La Maison, even if the lavender is no longer in bloom. It's a quiet place for your family picnics. The family area, the relaxation area, the picnic areas, the terrace and the bistro are still open until August 21.

My must: Frozen yogurt with lavender
More information here: https://www.maisonlavande.ca/pages/une-visite-a-la-maison 

 

8. Magie de la Pomme

Just in front of La Maison, the Magie de la Pomme orchard is also famous for welcoming children! Good luck to resist their little delights offered in store!

My must: The apple donuts (delicious!)
More information here: https://www.lamagiedelapomme.com/

 

9. Intermiel (Honey)

You probably know the honey factory next door! This family-owned business is a must for a sweet treat and to learn more about beekeeping. It's great to take the tour and see the bees in action.

My must: Honey & eucalyptus sweets (great for coughing up the change of season!)
More information here: https://intermiel.com/en/