A true jewel in the Châteauguay region, l’île Saint-Bernard is abundantly rich in nature and heritage.
Located only 20 minutes from Montreal, this island offers several attractions including, the Marguerite-d’Youville wildlife refuge, eight kilometres of developed trails, the Café de l’île, La Traite Bistro and the Manoir d'Youville, a 120 room hotel.
Brief history @ R2:The history of l’île Saint-Bernard dates back over 4,000 years when a group of Amerindians occupied the territory. It was in 1673 when the island had its first Lord, Sieur Charles Lemoyne de Longueuil. Later, in 1765, Marguerite d'Youville acquired the seigneury of Châteauguay and she was the last seigneur. For more than 200 years, the Grey Nuns lived and protected this region. TodayNow, Héritage Saint-Bernard protects the area by managing more than 90% of the island for conservation purposes.
In addition to heritage buildings, the island houses the Pavilion de l’île, where there is a theatre that offers various cultural programs and a summer theatre. In the winter, the island becomes a favourite spot for snowshoeing and Nordic walking enthusiasts.
@TBOX:What to do there this summer
Île Saint Bernard, 480 d'Youville Boulevard, île Saint-Bernard, Châteauguay, 450-698-3133.
