Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle: A Hidden Gem in Quebec

Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle is a small community located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, Canada. Despite its small size, it is a hidden gem that offers a variety of attractions and natural wonders for tourists to explore. From parks and lakes to trails and festivals, Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle has something for everyone.

Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle is the Parc Safari, a wildlife park that is home to over 500 animals from around the world. Visitors can take a safari tour to see the animals up close, or explore the park on foot. The park also has a water park and amusement park, making it a great destination for families.

Another popular attraction is the Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle Border Crossing, which connects Quebec to New York State. Visitors can walk across the border and explore the small town of Champlain, New York, which is just a short distance away.

For those interested in history, the Musée de la Gendarmerie Royale du Canada is a must-visit. The museum showcases the history of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and features exhibits on crime, law enforcement, and the RCMP's role in Canadian history.

Natural Wonders

Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle is home to several beautiful parks and lakes. The Parc des Patriotes is a popular destination for picnics and outdoor activities, while the Lacolle Falls is a scenic spot for hiking and photography.

The Mont Saint-Grégoire is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and birds of prey.

Festivals

Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle is home to several festivals throughout the year. The Festival de la Fraise is a celebration of the strawberry harvest, and features live music, food vendors, and a parade. The Festival des Couleurs is a celebration of the fall foliage, and features hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

History

Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle was established in 1792, and was named after Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. The community was incorporated in 1855, and was originally a farming community. In the early 20th century, the community became a hub for the Canadian Pacific Railway, and the railway station became an important transportation hub for the region.

Conclusion

Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle is a hidden gem in Quebec that offers a variety of attractions and natural wonders for tourists to explore. From the Parc Safari to the Mont Saint-Grégoire, there is something for everyone in this small community. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or festivals, Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle is a destination that should not be missed.

Sources

• "Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle." Quebec Original. https://www.quebecoriginal.com/en-ca/listing/things-to-do/heritage-sites-and-attractions/cities-and-towns/saint-bernard-de-lacolle-238000000
• "Parc Safari." Parc Safari. https://www.parcsafari.com/en/
• "Musée de la Gendarmerie Royale du Canada." Musée de la Gendarmerie Royale du Canada. https://www.museedelagrc.com/
• "Festival de la Fraise." Tourisme Haut-Richelieu. https://tourismehautrichelieu.com/en/festival-de-la-fraise/
• "Festival des Couleurs." Tourisme Haut-Richelieu. https://tourismehautrichelieu.com/en/festival-des-couleurs/
• "Mont Saint-Grégoire." Sépaq. https://www.sepaq.com/pq/msg/