Ottawa is famous for its own farmers' markets and countryside drives, but if you're craving something a little different this season, La Montérégie in Quebec makes for a rewarding road trip from the capital.
What Is La Montérégie?
Often called Quebec's pantry, La Montérégie sits south of Montreal and is known for endless fields of corn, soybeans and orchards. At first glance it might look like just another stretch of farm country, but spend a day exploring its farms and vineyards and you'll find a region with a surprisingly deep food and wine culture, one that rewards visitors willing to slow down and explore.
Farms, Wineries and a Whole Lot of Local Flavour
Across the region, small producers grow everything from apples to specialty vegetables, and family-run wineries have been quietly building a reputation for quality Quebec wine. Visitors touring the area get a hands-on look at how the products end up on dinner tables across the province, with plenty of opportunities to pick fruit straight from the source and sample wines made just steps from the vines that grew them.
History Baked Into the Landscape
Beyond the food and drink, La Montérégie carries a layered history that shows up in its architecture, its small towns and the stories passed down by the families who've farmed the land for generations. It's the kind of region where a short drive between stops can take you past centuries-old buildings and working farms in the same afternoon.
