Trois-Rivieres, Canada

Situated at the meeting point of the Saint-Maurice and Saint Lawrence Rivers, Trois-Rivieres is the cultural hub of the Maurice region, and one of the finest ports to be found whilst travelling the Quebec City-Windsor Corridor. About halfway between Quebec City and Montreal, Trois-Rivieres is a city with a breath-taking shoreline to go along with it unique charms.

The historic look of the city is a sight to behold, with the Old City concentrated by the river and featuring spectacular rustic buildings, centuries- old maritime harbours, and a fine collection of museums, there is plenty of culture to delve into.

A huge amount of charm and unpretentious elegance pervades the city centre, with numerous art galleries, stylish cafes and cosy restaurants filling picturesque squares. From the downtown centre, cruisers can get a fantastic view of the St. Lawrence River, a majestic waterway which adds verdant charm to the splendour of Trois-Rivieres.

Sightseeing in Trois-Rivieres

Sanctuaire Notre Dame du Cap

From the centre of Trois-Rivieres, cruisers can take a trip to the nearby Cap de la Madeleine, which is only 4km northeast of the centre. Within the interior of the church, a huge, vaulted space awaits, filled with enough pews to hold up to 1660 worshippers. A giant Casavant organ, beautifully adorned by gold inlaid steel pipes, as well as a Marian shrine that is said to hold a miracle-performing statue that brings pilgrims flocking from all over Quebec. This is a fantastic sight, and well worth the effort.

Musee Quebecois de Culture Populaire

In English, the Quebec Museum of Popular Culture, this is one of the most interesting stops in the whole of Quebec. Its exhibits change throughout the year, meaning that no matter what season you visit in, there will always be a brand new collection or exhibition to enjoy. Past exhibitions have included a comprehensive, entertaining look at the sports icons from the Maurice region, galleries containing folk art from the whole of the Quebec region, and winter exhibitions displaying tales of the nutcracker.

Les Forges-du-Saint-Mauricie

Just 7km northwest of the centre, Les Forges-du-Saint-Mauricie is the birthplace of the Canadian iron industry. This fantastic building has stood since the 18th century, and has just recently become a pioneering historical site. Professional guides attired in the authentic garb of former workers provide extensive tours of this intriguing monument, giving you a look at the impressive blast furnaces, as well as an informative sound-and-light show.

Shopping in Trois-Rivieres

For first rate boutiques and roman garden architecture, make sure to visit the Les Rivieres Shopping Centre. Exquisite skylights overlook an impeccably decorated dining area, as well as a promenade over 150 stores. Not just a hotspot for luxury brands, but also unique boutiques and galleries.

Eating Out in Trois-Rivieres

For delicious confectionery and an exquisite lunchtime menu, head to Café Morgane, this is often packed with locals enjoying the festive atmosphere. For a sumptuous dinner, head to Restaurant Le Grill, which is a chic steakhouse on the main strip in Trois-Rivieres. It has a street-side patio which offers a fantastic view of the main street, and with delicacies like fillet mignon on the menu, it’s one of the best eateries in town.