Things To Do
in Saint-Charles-Borromée
Saint-Charles-Borromée is a small, leafy municipality in Quebec's Mauricie region, just outside Trois-Rivières. It offers a serene mix of residential neighborhoods, green spaces, and riverside paths that invite outdoor exploration. The town serves as a quiet base for discovering Mauricie’s forests, local culture, and nearby access to larger urban amenities.
The community is welcoming and family-friendly, with events and markets that showcase regional produce and crafts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the historic center of Saint-Charles-Borromée with a visit to the charming local café, where you can enjoy a fresh croissant and a cup of locally sourced coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque streets, admiring the quaint architecture and vibrant storefronts. Don’t forget to stop by the local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
In the afternoon, delve into the local history at the Musée de l'Art de Joliette, which is nearby, to explore its fascinating exhibitions and collections. After soaking in the art, enjoy a peaceful walk along the L'Assomption River, taking in the beautiful natural scenery and perhaps spotting local wildlife. For lunch, treat yourself to a meal at a nearby bistro, where you can savor regional specialties made with fresh, local ingredients.
As the sun sets, head to the local park for a relaxing evening picnic, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. After your meal, consider attending a performance at the community theatre, which often showcases local talent and cultural events. Cap off the night with a stroll through the town, where you can appreciate the charming ambiance as the lights twinkle in the evening sky.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Parc-nature Les Chutes de Rawdon, where you can explore picturesque trails that lead to stunning waterfalls. As you walk, take time to appreciate the lush greenery and the sound of nature surrounding you. Stop for a break at one of the lookout points to capture breathtaking views of the landscapes.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature. In the afternoon, take a guided nature tour to learn about the local flora and fauna, which will deepen your appreciation for the environment. Alternatively, you can rent a canoe or kayak to paddle on the nearby lake, soaking in the sun and the peaceful atmosphere.
Return to Saint-Charles-Borromée to freshen up before heading out to dinner at a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely evening stroll along the waterfront, where you can watch the sunset reflect off the water. End your day by enjoying a nightcap at a cozy bar, where you can chat with locals about their favorite spots in town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Grocery basket for a week | $60-110 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel or B&B per night | $80-150 |
| 🚲Public transit pass or bike rental | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, family-friendly town with easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and safe neighborhoods
- Proximity to Trois-Rivières provides cultural and dining options
- Limited nightlife and urban attractions within the town
- Seasonal weather can be harsh in winter
- Public transit options are less extensive than big cities
Places to Visit in Saint-Charles-Borromée
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise and sunset shots along the calm river with boats passing by.
Architectural facade and cobbled streets for classic Quebec photography.
Elevated vantage point over pine forests with seasonal color.
Old bridge and water reflections at dusk for moody cityscape shots.
Food in Saint-Charles-Borromée
Saint-Charles-Borromée Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fries topped with cheese curds and rich gravy; widely available at casual eateries and snack spots.
Must-Try!
A comforting meat pie, traditionally served around holidays; look for it at local bakeries and diners.
Pork spread served on crusty bread, a Quebec staple found in delis and breakfast spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering fresh produce, maple products, cheeses, and prepared foods; best visited in the day.
Wood-fired pizzas, poutines, and local specialties along the waterfront during summer weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is the predominant language; greet with Bonjour or Bonsoir and use polite forms (Monsieur/Madame). Quebecers value politeness and patience in queues and service interactions.
Be punctual for appointments and events; keep noise levels reasonable in residential areas, especially in evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Charles-Borromée
Ensure a smooth experience
Gratuities of 15-20% are customary in restaurants; tipping is appreciated for good service. Cash is accepted widely, but most places also take credit or debit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery; showers are common; good for nature walks and early blossoms.
Warm days with frequent outdoor festivals and river activities; bring sunscreen and water.
Vivid fall foliage; ideal for photography and scenic drives; cooler evenings.
Cold and snowy; activities include winter hiking, snowshoeing, and nearby skiing; dress in layers.
Saint-Charles-Borromée at Night
Hiking in Saint-Charles-Borromée
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes with river and forest scenery, suitable for most hikers.
Several protected areas offering longer hikes and scenic overlooks; check local visitor center for trail maps.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Charles-Borromée by plane.
Major international hub about 2-3 hours by car, offering extensive domestic and international flights.
Mid-sized airport about 2-3 hours away, with frequent domestic connections and some international flights.
Small regional airport serving charter and domestic flights; convenient for quick trips to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French-speaking population with bilingual services in tourist areas.
Mix of families, professionals, and retirees; a sizable portion of residents are young families.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter staple on community rinks and leagues.
Cross-country trails in nearby parks during winter.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Charles-Borromée.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; ask for meat-free versions of traditional dishes; check for cheese and dairy in sauces.