Day trip on Quebec Historic Road, Chemin du Roy (Montreal to Trois-Rivières)

Discovering Quebec’s Oldest Road: A Full-Day Trip from Montreal

If you’re looking to step back in time and explore Quebec’s historic sites without the hassle of planning every detail, this guided day trip along Chemin du Roy offers a compelling way to do just that. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve seen enough traveler reviews and tour details to give a clear picture of what’s on offer—and what you can expect.

What I love about this experience is how it combines easy logistics with a rich look at Quebec’s heritage. The tour includes complimentary hotel pickup, so you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics, and the small group size promises a more intimate, relaxed vibe. Plus, exploring both charming towns and Quebec City’s storied streets makes for a fulfilling day. A possible downside? The price of around $888 per group is on the higher side for a day trip, but considering the included stops and guided commentary, many feel it’s worth it.

This tour is well-suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Quebec outside the city. It’s also perfect if you prefer a structured, guided experience rather than navigating on your own. If you’re traveling with a curious mind and enjoy a bit of storytelling along with sightseeing, this trip could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Historical Route: You’ll follow Quebec’s oldest road, Chemin du Roy, with stops in towns that showcase architecture and heritage.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 people, making for a more personalized experience.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Pickup and drop-off from downtown Montreal are included, easing your day.
• Variety of Stops: From heritage towns to religious sites, there’s a good mix of cultural highlights.
• Flexible Walks: Short walks at each stop help you soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
• Guided Commentary: Knowledgeable bilingual guides add context and stories you might not find elsewhere.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting from Montreal

Your day begins around 9:00 am at W Montreal, a central location with easy access via public transit. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a small group—up to 12 people—which means you won’t be lost in a crowd. The guide will be your storyteller and navigator, sharing insights throughout the roughly nine-hour trip.

First Stop: L’Assomption

The journey kicks off with a visit to L’Assomption, a town known for its remarkable architecture. The stop here is about 30 minutes, and you’re free to explore the downtown area. The highlight is soaking in the historic buildings and the town’s atmosphere, which often leaves visitors surprised at how well-preserved and authentic everything feels. It’s a gentle start that sets the tone for the day—picturesque and steeped in history.

Saint-Sulpice: Preserved Heritage

Next, you’ll visit Saint-Sulpice, where the best-preserved stretch of Chemin du Roy is on display. The focus here is on architecture, with well-maintained heritage buildings that tell stories of the past. The 20-minute stop isn’t long, but it’s enough to appreciate the craftsmanship and history. Many travelers mention how seeing such a well-conserved section brings the road’s history vividly to life.

Lavaltrie and Marie-Rosalie Cadron

Lavaltrie offers a glimpse into local history with a visit to the house of Marie-Rosalie Cadron, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy. This stop is about 15 minutes, giving you just enough time to appreciate her contribution and the significance of the site. The story of her pioneering work adds a special touch, especially for those interested in religious history or women’s contributions.

Step Back in Time at Maskinonge

Moving on, you’ll visit a general store dating back to 1915 in Maskinonge, which many describe as feeling like a trip through time. This 20-minute stop is a favorite for visitors, as it offers a tangible connection to a bygone era. It’s a quirky, nostalgic pause that often prompts comments about how well-preserved the store is and how it echoes the shopping experience of over a century ago.

Exploring Trois-Rivières

The highlight for many is the visit to Trois-Rivières, where you have about 40 minutes to wander the downtown and old town areas. You’ll see charming streets, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere that mixes heritage with modern life. The guide often shares stories that bring the city’s past alive, making this stop both scenic and informative.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame-du-Cap

Your final stop is at the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Cap, a significant religious site and pilgrimage destination. With around 30 minutes here, you’ll have the chance to admire the impressive basilica and learn about its history. Since it’s a national shrine, many visitors find it a moving experience, and the architecture alone is worth the visit.

Returning to Montreal

After a full day of exploring, the tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to your Montreal hotel. The experience ends around 6 pm, leaving you with a well-rounded day of sightseeing, history, and culture.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and good value for money. Keith_H pointed out that the tour was “well worth it” for visiting towns outside Montreal, while Paul_K appreciated how “friendly and very well informed” the guide was. Many also mention the comfort of the vehicle and the small group size, which creates a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Some reviews also mention the food and ambiance in the towns visited—although the tour doesn’t include meals, the stops at historic stores and restaurants give you opportunities to enjoy local flavors. One traveler called it “a pleasant day seeing the towns along the Saint Lawrence,” emphasizing the scenic drives and charming stops.

Price and Value

At around $887.78 for up to four people, this tour isn’t exactly cheap. But considering it covers transport, guiding, and multiple significant stops, many find it a worthwhile splurge. The fact that it’s a private tour also means less waiting and a more tailored experience, which can add to the perceived value.

Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to budget extra for meals or snacks during the day. The guided commentary and the variety of sites make the cost easier to justify for those wanting an immersive, organized experience without the stress of planning themselves.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits history buffs, architecture fans, and travelers who thrive on guided experiences. If you enjoy learning about local heritage, visiting scenic towns, and having someone else handle logistics, this tour could be a perfect pick. It’s also good for those who prefer a small, intimate group rather than big tours with lots of strangers.

It’s not ideal if you have limited mobility, as there’s a fair amount of getting on and off the vehicle and walking short distances. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s worth noting that the stops are relatively short, but the tour doesn’t specifically cater to children’s needs—so use your judgment based on your family’s interests.

FAQ

Is pickup from my hotel included? Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup and drop-off from downtown Montreal hotels, making the day more convenient.

How long does the tour last? It’s approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the early evening.

Are meals included? No, the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat during the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children? While children are welcome, the tour involves several stops with walking and short periods on the bus, so consider your kids’ comfort with that.

What languages are the guides available in? The tour includes a bilingual guide, so commentary should be accessible for bilingual or English-speaking travelers.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Is it accessible for people with limited mobility? No, the tour isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility due to the walking involved at each stop.

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to explore Quebec beyond Montreal, this guided day trip along Chemin du Roy offers a well-rounded mix of history, architecture, and scenic towns. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtfully curated stops make it a relaxing way to discover some of Quebec’s most charming and historic spots. While the price might seem steep, many travelers find the experience and convenience to be worth the investment.

This tour is particularly suited for those who enjoy history, architecture, and small-town charm, and who prefer not to drive or plan complicated itineraries themselves. It’s a good choice for travelers who value storytelling and culture, even if they only have a day to spare.

If that sounds like your kind of trip, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your Quebec visit.