Top 10 Things to Do on Île d'Orléans: The Ultimate Travel Guide

What to Do on Île d'Orléans: A Scenic Island Escape Filled with Flavor, Charm & Furry Companions

Just a short drive from Quebec City, Île d'Orléans feels like stepping into another world—where strawberry fields stretch to the horizon, wine flows by the river, and dogs are just as welcome as people. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, road-tripping with your pup, or just craving a slice of countryside magic, this island is the ultimate slow-travel destination.

Let’s dive into 10 unforgettable things to do on Île d'Orléans, weaving together experiences, locations, and insider tips to make your journey sweet, scenic, and oh-so-satisfying.

1. Pick Your Own Strawberries (or Apples!)

Strawberry picking on Île d'Orléans is a summertime must. It's sweet, simple, and perfectly nostalgic—a juicy tradition for families, couples, or solo adventurers. The island’s rich soil produces some of the best berries in Quebec, and the experience is even better when shared with your dog. Grab a bucket and head into the fields for sun-ripened fun, then snack on your harvest while enjoying the countryside breeze.

Top Strawberry Farms:

• Ferme Laval Gagnon – Located in Sainte-Famille, this farm offers sprawling fields and stunning river views as you pick the sweetest berries.
• La Ferme Audet – A small-scale gem in Saint-François, known for juicy organic strawberries and friendly, family-run charm.
• Polyculture Plante 1987 – In Sainte-Pétronille, this farm has great strawberries and a scenic spot for snapping photos with your full bucket.

Local Tip:
Bring cash—many farms don’t accept cards, and it makes buying extra treats like jams or maple syrup much easier!

2. Stroll Through Sunflower Fields

There’s something magical about walking through golden rows of sunflowers taller than you. On Île d'Orléans, these fields bloom brightly from mid-July through August, painting the landscape in brilliant yellow. It’s a peaceful, photogenic experience—perfect for nature lovers, romantic wanderers, and anyone with a camera in hand. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or simply soaking up summer, sunflower season is a breathtaking time to explore the island.

Best Sunflower Spots:

• L Bunker de l’Île – Known for its wide fields and whimsical pathways, this spot is a sunflower dream with free photo access.
• Ferme Liz Ouellet – A local-favorite in Saint-Laurent offering gorgeous blooms and often bundles of flowers for sale at the gate.
• Ferme André Plante et Filles – This quiet farm features vibrant sunflowers and additional pick-your-own veggies like garlic and cucumbers.

Local Tip:
Plan your visit for golden hour (just before sunset) for the most flattering light and the least crowded fields.

3. Sip Cider at a Local Cidery

Île d'Orléans is apple country, and its crisp, aromatic ciders reflect the island’s agricultural soul. Spending an afternoon sipping cider here is as refreshing as the drinks themselves. You’ll find charming tasting rooms, outdoor terraces with views, and unique blends ranging from sweet to sparkling. It’s a perfect midday stop, and many cideries offer local cheeses and charcuterie to make it a full tasting experience.

Top Cideries:

• Cidrerie Verger Bilodeau – Offers classic apple and pear ciders in a warm family-run atmosphere with a shop full of local treats.
• Cidrerie Domaine Steinbach – Known for fruit-infused ciders, plus a boutique with must-try ice cider sorbet and artisanal snacks.
• Vignoble Domaine Orléans – Though known for wine, this vineyard also serves small-batch cider in a scenic setting near the river.

Local Tip:
Many cideries offer picnic areas—bring local strawberries or cheese from a nearby farm to enjoy with your tasting flight.

4. Sample Jams and Gourmet Treats at Confiturerie Tigo

No trip to Île d'Orléans is complete without tasting its legendary fruit preserves. The island’s fertile soil and local creativity come together in small-batch jams, jellies, and maple-infused treats that feel both luxurious and homemade. Whether you’re into bold berry blends or creamy maple-apple spreads, a jam tasting is a flavorful way to experience the island’s heart and soul.

Where to Go:

• Confiturerie Tigo – A charming shop offering a wide range of jams with tasting spoons and baked goods made fresh daily.
• La Nougaterie Québec – Famous for its soft nougat and unique jam flavors like strawberry basil; samples always offered with a smile.
• Vignoble Sainte-Pétronille – Boutique Gourmande – Pair jam tasting with a glass of wine and browse their gourmet pantry filled with island-made goodies.

Local Tip:
Ask staff about seasonal or experimental flavors—they often have limited-edition jars not listed on the shelves.

5. Take a Scenic Drive Around the Island Loop

The 75-kilometer loop around Île d'Orléans is one of the most beautiful drives in Quebec. Wind through historic villages, farms, vineyards, and waterfronts while discovering local treasures at every bend. It’s the ultimate slow travel experience—perfect for spontaneous stops, artisan finds, and countryside charm. Whether you rent a car or bring your own, set aside a full afternoon to soak in the peaceful rhythm of island life.

Must-See Stops:

• Lookout at Saint-François Church – Stunning panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and a peaceful spot for stretching your legs.
• Maison Drouin (Sainte-Famille) – A preserved 1730s home showcasing traditional rural life—perfect for history lovers and culture buffs.
• Espace Félix-Leclerc (Saint-Pierre) – A tribute to Quebec's beloved poet and singer, with outdoor exhibits and a quiet riverfront location.

Local Tip:
Start your loop clockwise from Sainte-Pétronille to catch the best morning light and beat the late-day traffic coming from Quebec City.

6. Visit a Winery with a View

Yes, Île d'Orléans is famous for cider, but its wineries are equally spectacular. Island vineyards produce elegant reds, delicate rosés, and crisp whites that taste even better when paired with river views. The wineries here are relaxed, scenic, and welcoming—ideal for a casual tasting, a romantic break, or a solo sip in the sunshine. Many also sell gourmet goods, so you can bring the flavors home.

Top Wineries:

• Vignoble Ste-Pétronille – A sleek, modern vineyard with views of Montmorency Falls and seasonal gourmet food trucks on-site.
• Vignoble Isle de Bacchus – Quebec’s oldest vineyard with a peaceful garden terrace and a selection of fruit-forward wines.
• Vignoble Domaine Orléans – Elegant estate with both wine and cider offerings, plus cozy seating areas overlooking the surrounding vines.

Local Tip:
Ask if the vineyard offers a “dégustation terroir” (local tasting)—many pair wines with island-made cheeses or charcuterie for a full experience.

7. Chill on a Terrace

One of the most underrated joys of Île d'Orléans is how dog-friendly it is—especially at cafés and terraces. Whether you’re after a light lunch, an artisanal dessert, or just a glass of something bubbly, there are plenty of outdoor spaces where your furry travel buddy is welcome. Grab a seat, order something delicious, and enjoy the laid-back pace of island dining—pup included.

Top Pet-Friendly Spots:

• La Boulange (Sainte-Famille) – Cozy café with shaded seating, buttery pastries, and smiling staff who are happy to welcome dogs.
• Cassis Monna & Filles (Saint-Pierre) – Known for blackcurrant specialties and artisan ice cream, plus a large outdoor area perfect for pets.
• Resto de la Plage (Saint-François) – Beachside restaurant with picnic tables and sunset views, great for casual eats with your four-legged friend.

Local Tip:
Bring a portable water bowl and a small towel—some patios offer shade, but it can get hot in summer afternoons.

8. Catch a Glorious Island Sunset

There’s nothing quite like ending your Île d'Orléans adventure with a sunset over the St. Lawrence River. As golden light spills across the fields and water, the island becomes a serene, cinematic dream. Whether you’re solo, with a partner, or hanging out with your pup, watching the sun melt into the horizon is pure magic. Bring a blanket, some local snacks, and toast to a day well spent.

Best Sunset Spots:

• Parc Maritime de Saint-Laurent – A peaceful, grassy park with benches, walking trails, and open skies that light up at dusk.
• Saint-François Pier – Quiet and breezy, this wooden pier juts into the river, giving you unobstructed west-facing sunset views.
• Terrace at Vignoble Domaine Orléans – Enjoy a final glass of wine as the vineyard glows in warm, golden tones at day's end.

Local Tip:
Bring bug spray! The mosquitoes love sunset as much as you do—and don’t forget your camera for those postcard-worthy shots.

9. Discover Artisan Studios and Galleries

Art and craftsmanship are woven into the fabric of Île d'Orléans. From folk art and woodwork to handmade soaps and cheeses, you’ll find creativity on every corner of the island. Many artists work right on-site, offering a glimpse into their process and a chance to connect with the island’s culture. It’s the perfect way to find meaningful souvenirs—and maybe a new favorite artist.

Top Artisan Spots:

• Galerie d’art Le Jardin de Gisèle (Saint-Jean) – A whimsical gallery in a garden setting featuring colorful local paintings and pottery.
• Atelier Paré (Saint-Laurent) – Specializing in wood sculptures and storytelling art that reflects Quebec’s folklore and traditions.
• Les Fromages de l’Isle d’Orléans (Sainte-Famille) – Taste traditional cheeses made on-site, then browse local crafts and kitchenware.

Local Tip:
Ask if artists offer demos or mini workshops—some studios provide hands-on experiences you won’t find listed in any brochure.

10. Stay Overnight for the Full Island Experience

One day on Île d'Orléans is lovely. Two? Unforgettable. Staying overnight lets you slow down even more, catch the sunrise, and maybe even enjoy fireworks over Quebec City. The island has a range of cozy B&Bs, stylish inns, and a few motels—all bursting with rustic charm and warm hospitality. After a day of strawberries, cider, and sunsets, a quiet night under island stars is the perfect ending.

Recommended Stays:

• Motel Île d'Orléans (Saint-Pierre) – Pet-friendly and perched on a hill with river views and easy access to all island routes.
• Auberge La Grange de l’Île (Sainte-Pétronille) – A beautifully restored barn-turned-inn offering stylish rooms and tranquil surroundings.
• Gîte au Toit Bleu (Saint-François) – Bright, cheerful rooms and home-cooked breakfasts make this a favorite for return visitors.

Local Tip:
Book well in advance during summer weekends. Ask for a river-facing room to enjoy morning coffee with unbeatable views.

Sweet Moments, Scenic Roads & Slow Island Living

From plucking strawberries under the summer sun to sipping wine with your dog at your feet, Île d'Orléans invites you to slow down and savor every detail. This peaceful island just outside Quebec City is more than a day trip—it’s a destination packed with authenticity, flavor, and heart. Whether you're wandering sunflower fields, jamming out with homemade preserves, or catching a golden sunset by the river, every moment on the island feels like something out of a storybook.

So grab your basket, leash up your pup, and set your sights on Île d'Orléans—the perfect blend of rural charm, culinary magic, and soulful adventure.