Bleu Lavande Lavender Farm
Bleu Lavande is the largest lavender farm in Canada. It is located less than 2 hours from Montreal and less than 3 hours from Quebec City. The farm lies in the village of Fitch Bay, overlooking Apple Grove Hill. If you love lavender, you will be in lavender la-la land here.
The fields are in full bloom in July. We enjoyed a $10 tour, spoken in French and English, and learned about the history of lavender as well as the process of extracting the essential oils from the lavender plants.
We strolled through the fields, capturing the scent and the amazing scenery. We enjoyed a light lunch, followed by a magical massage, with the backdrop of rolling hills and a lavender scented breeze. The aroma certainly affected us! We would not normally pose for such a corny photo!
Today, lavender is one of the most popular essential oils in the world. One benefit is reduced anxiety and stress. We left Bleu Lavande stress free, with fond memories of our day, and several bottles of lavender oil from the farm’s store.
Ile d’ Orleans- a little paradise on the Saint-Laurent
This beautiful, enchanting island is located only 15 minutes from Quebec City, on the Saint Lawrence River. Ile d’Orleans is noted for its rural paradise, scenic views, beautiful homes, strawberry, raspberry and blueberry fields, apple orchards, roadside farmer’s markets, antique shops, and delicious cuisine.
Our mouths water just thinking of the strawberries grown in Ile d’ Orleans. They are small, sweet, juicy, and by far, the best strawberries EVER!
We had the pleasure of eating dinner beside the outdoor waterfall at Le Moulin de Saint-Laurent Restaurant, which is located in an old flour mill, dating back to 1720. The ambiance was charming and the food was scrumptious. We were given this beautiful sketch on a piece of stationary, as a memento from the restaurant.
L’isle -aux-Coudre
Just an hour and a half from Quebec City, past Baie Saint-Paul, you will arrive at St-Joseph-de-la-rive. As you drive your car on to the FREE 20 minute ferry and cross to L’isle-aux-Coudres, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of the St. Lawrence River and the Charlevoix Mountains. L’isle-aux-Coudres is an oasis of charm, tranquility, and breathtaking views.
Auberge Les Eglantiers B&B
We were welcomed to this charming home by the kindhearted owners, Brigitte and Lawrence. Their home, which sits on a hill overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, was built a century ago and they have preserved the charm, warmth, and comfort. After unpacking, we headed out to explore the area, right as it began to drizzle outside and within a few minutes, a double rainbow crossed the sky, and the clouds cleared.
Isle-aux-Coudres is loved by bird watchers, walkers, bikers, kite-surfers, shoppers, and foodies. We enjoyed our 23k drive around the island looking in boutiques and quaint gift shops. Charlotte! Atelier Boutique sells artist designed jewelry, home accessories and children’s apparel and supplied us with gifts to take home.
We woke early in the morning and enjoyed a peaceful walk along the shore. Our host, Lawrence, was in his garden, picking herbs and flowers to add to the amazing breakfast, while Brigitte prepared an assortment of muffins, cakes, breads, marmalade, cheese, eggs, fruit, juices, and coffee. We sat on the deck, enjoyed a breathtaking view of the river, and declared this experience “our favorite breakfast EVER”.
Thank you Brigitte and Lawrence for great memories of Auberge Les Eglantiers. The gorgeous location, peaceful atmosphere, outstanding breakfast, and your hospitality, were all spectacular!
