Here, water is never far away. It flows through our villages, borders our parks, accompanies our bike rides, and offers some of the region’s most beautiful views. Originating in Lake Champlain, the Richelieu River is the backbone of the Haut-Richelieu region. It’s the river that connects our history, our heritage… and all those little traditions that make us love living here so much.
Here, we go paddling at sunrise, sit out on the terrace to watch the boats go by, or set out on a little trip on the lake. Water is part of our daily lives… and it’s also one of the most beautiful ways to explore the Haut-Richelieu region.
A River That Tells Our Story
Long before it became a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, the Richelieu River was a major waterway. Known for many years as the Iroquois River, it occupied a strategic position connecting Lake Champlain to the St. Lawrence River.
During the New France era, a series of fortifications was built along its banks to protect this important access route. In our region, Fort Saint-Jean, Fort Sainte-Thérèse (whose ruins are likely located today within the Carignan area), and Fort Lennox, in Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix, bear witness to an era when controlling the Richelieu River meant controlling access to the colony.
In the 19th century, the region’s economic development gave rise to another iconic structure: the Chambly Canal. Built to bypass the rapids, it facilitated trade between Montreal and Lake Champlain. Today, that same canal continues to delight boaters… at a much more leisurely pace.
Here, life moves to the rhythm of the water
Today, the river is no longer an obstacle to be crossed: it has become a destination synonymous with relaxation, escape, and shared moments.
We stop for a few minutes to watch the boats go through the locks.
We have an impromptu picnic on its banks, without keeping track of the time.
We cycle along the river, glancing at the water with one eye and the passing scenery with the other.
We end the day watching the sunset reflected on the water.
It is this proximity to the Richelieu River that gives the region its unique character. No matter where you are, there’s always a path that leads to the water.
A Thousand Ways to Enjoy It
There are many ways to experience the Richelieu River in a different way.
You can go paddling at sunrise, explore the river by canoe or stand-up paddleboard, learn the basics of sailing, set out on a cruise, try your hand at scuba diving, or cast your line in one of Quebec’s most popular rivers for anglers.
For those who prefer to keep both feet on the ground, several kilometers of bike paths let you ride along the river, the canal, or Lake Champlain while enjoying ever-changing scenery.
And sometimes, the best thing to do is simply to sit on a pier for a few minutes… without checking the time.
💦 Our suggestions for enjoying the water
Whether you’re the type to paddle, sail, or simply sit on a patio and watch the boats go by, here are a few places where you can fully enjoy the Richelieu River, the Chambly Canal, and Lake Champlain.
🚣 Want to go paddling?
O SUP Shop(Ronald Beauregard Outdoor Center)
Stand-up paddleboard rentals, introductory lessons, and guided tours to experience the river in a whole new way.
Do you have your own boat? Check out the Route Bleue routes to find the various itineraries accessible by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, and plan your next adventure on the Richelieu River.
⛵ The Wind in Our Sails
Iberville Cruises
Come aboard to see the Richelieu and Lake Champlain from a different perspective.
Viavela Sailing
Try your hand at sailing and let the wind guide you down the river.
O’Quai Richelieu
Set sail at your own pace by renting a pontoon boat and explore the Richelieu River in complete freedom.
🤿 Beneath the Surface
Scuba Diving Option
Courses, trips, and equipment rentals to explore the depths of the Richelieu River.
🎣 A line in the water
Eco-Fishing
Guided fishing trips and introductory courses in sport fishing.
Guy Mayer Outfitter
The go-to place for planning your next outing.
Laramée Outfitter
Another excellent option for enjoying all that the Richelieu River has to offer.
🍽️ Dining by the Water
L’Ancrage – Venise-en-Québec
The perfect place to start the day with a cup of coffee overlooking Lake Champlain.
Le Quai – Venice, Quebec
A welcoming terrace where you can wind down at the end of the day overlooking the lake.
La Buvette Laganière – Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
A lovely spot along the Chamly Canal.
Les Berges – Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
A beautiful terrace in the heart of Old Saint-Jean, with the canal as a backdrop.
Marina St-Tropez – Saint-Blaise-sur-Richelieu
A summery atmosphere that almost makes you feel like you’re on vacation by the sea.
🌅 Want to slow down?
Why Do We Always Come Back to the Richelieu?
Here, water isn’t just part of the landscape. It’s part of our identity. It tells our story, brings people together, and turns a simple stroll into a vacation memory. It’s what invites us to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and enjoy the little pleasures that make for great summer days.
But what we love most isn't just all the things we can do on the water.
That's how she makes each of our days special.
A coffee enjoyed overlooking the lake before the day begins. A bike ride that follows the river for kilometers. Children mesmerized by a boat passing through a lock. An impromptu kayaking trip. A terrace where time seems to slow down. A sunset that sets the Richelieu River ablaze while conversations linger a little longer.
It's those little moments—seemingly simple—that often become our fondest memories.
Whether you’re just passing through for a few hours or planning a multi-day getaway, there are countless ways to explore the Haut-Richelieu region from the water.
All you have to do is go with the flow… and make your own memories.
