Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue: A Hidden Gem in Quebec

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is a charming town located on the western tip of the Island of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. The town is known for its beautiful parks, lakes, and trails, as well as its rich history and cultural heritage.

Attractions

Ecomuseum Zoo

The Ecomuseum Zoo is a unique attraction that showcases the wildlife of Quebec. Visitors can see over 115 species of animals, including black bears, wolves, and lynx. The zoo is open year-round and offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events.

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal

The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal is a National Historic Site of Canada that dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can take a boat tour of the canal and learn about its history and importance to the region.

Morgan Arboretum

The Morgan Arboretum is a 245-hectare forested reserve that is home to over 180 species of trees and shrubs. Visitors can hike, bike, or ski on the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Farmers' Market

The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Farmers' Market is a popular attraction that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. The market is open from May to October and is a great place to sample local cuisine.

Natural Wonders

Lac Saint-Louis

Lac Saint-Louis is a large lake that borders Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. Visitors can swim, fish, or boat on the lake and enjoy the scenic views.

Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park

Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park is a 330-hectare park that is located on the western tip of the Island of Montreal. The park offers hiking trails, beaches, and picnic areas, as well as a variety of outdoor activities.

Festivals

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Street Fair

The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Street Fair is an annual event that takes place in August. The fair features live music, food vendors, and artisanal products.

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Christmas Market

The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Christmas Market is a popular event that takes place in December. The market features local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment.

History

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue was founded in 1703 by the Sulpician Order, a Catholic religious order. The town was named after Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary. The town was incorporated in 1895 and became a city in 1951. The town was originally a farming community, but it later became a popular destination for tourists who were looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway.

Conclusion

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is a hidden gem in Quebec that offers a variety of attractions, natural wonders, and festivals. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, learn about its rich history and cultural heritage, and sample local cuisine. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue has something for everyone.

Sources

Ecomuseum Zoo: http://www.zooecomuseum.ca/
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/qc/sainteannebellevue)
Morgan Arboretum: https://www.morganarboretum.org/
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Farmers' Market: https://www.marchesainteanne.ca/
Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/qc/capsaintjacques)
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Street Fair: https://www.sadb.qc.ca/en/events/street-fair)
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Christmas Market: https://www.sadb.qc.ca/en/events/christmas-market)