The Countryman’s Tour
Rural tradition at its finest
Discover the rich and fertile land of the southwestern Montérégie by taking the Countryman’s Tour (Circuit du Paysan), a route made up of farms, vineyards, cider producers and businesses that promote locally grown products. You can sample regional delights, visit farms or even pick your own fruits and vegetables. Why not take the opportunity to learn all about how ice cider is produced? This alcoholic beverage, made from apples that have been exposed to the frost, is known for its fine sweet bouquet.
A history buff’s delight
In addition to the bounty of the soil, you’ll discover numerous heritage attractions along this tourist route. The Irish, Scottish and American Loyalists who settled in this region over the centuries all left their mark. The hamlet of Rockburn is a good example of the area’s multicultural origins. While exploring this area you’ll be charmed by the many small churches representing different denominations and by the delightful low rock walls surrounding the farmers’ fields. In Ormstown, you’ll enjoy browsing through a number of antique shops. Lastly, the tour includes a fascinating visit to Fort Lennox, a National Historic site of Canada.
As far as the eye can see
Dotted with orchards, 335-m (1,100-ft.) Covey Hill is well worth the detour for the incredible panorama its summit affords. When the weather is clear, you’ll be treated to an exceptional view of the Montérégie hills, which lend a remarkable relief to the region’s agricultural plains. You’ll even be able to see Montréal, the Appalachians and the Green and White mountains in the U.S.
Your itinerary
The 197-km (122-mi.) Agricultural Tour criss-crosses the southwestern Montérégie. Forming a loop, it runs along the U.S. border at the foot of the Adirondacks. It can be accessed from Napierville, 48 km (30 mi.) from Montréal (exit 21 off Autoroute 15 Sud).