Véloroute Gourmande is an Incredible Cycling Route to Québec’s Culinary Heart

There’s no experience quite like cycling through Québec’s scenic byways with a culinary twist, and the Véloroute Gourmande, launched in 2022, offers precisely that. This 235km route connects the bustling city of Montréal to the historic charm of Sherbrooke, creating a leisurely travel experience for bikers and foodies alike. Winding through Québec’s idyllic countryside, this trail invites cyclists to hop from one delicious stop to the next, tasting everything from fresh poutine and pastries to local cheeses, artisanal spirits, and crafted brews.

Let’s face it, there is little better to accompany a cycling trip than delicious food and drink. Here’s what to expect on this ultimate cycling food tour through some of Québec’s most delightful landscapes and flavorful stops.

A Journey for All the Senses

The Véloroute Gourmande isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s about savoring every moment (and bite) along the way. Starting from Montréal, cyclists set off eastward, following portions of the well-known Route Verte network, North America’s longest cycling path. This section, however, is uniquely dedicated to food enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a casual weekend rider, the route is designed to be accessible yet rewarding, with stretches of both paved and gravel roads that connect Québec’s hidden culinary gems. From charming cafés and hearty farm-to-table meals to picturesque vineyards, each stop adds a flavor of Québec’s rich food heritage to your journey.

From Montréal to Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu

Your adventure begins in Montréal, the perfect entry point for food-lovers visiting Québec. The first leg, about 45km to Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, offers a gentle start, with flatter terrain and an impressive array of food stops. This stretch alone boasts over fifty spots, so you’ll have no shortage of options for refueling. Chez Lionel in Longueuil and Café MJ and Cie in Chambly are standout stops, each offering local flavors and warm hospitality to begin your journey on a high note. In Chambly, be sure to visit the Fort Chambly National Historic Site, a stately fortress overlooking the Richelieu River. Here, you can enjoy a bit of history alongside local treats like artisanal cheeses and decadent pastries.

Veloroute Gourmande

Into the Heart of Québec’s Food Culture

As you move into the Eastern Townships, the landscape transitions to a pastoral wonderland with farms, forests, and lakes dotting the horizon. Each village along the route has its own culinary gems, waiting to offer you a taste of their specialties. In Farnham, Yamaska Café stands out as a charming stop with gourmet sandwiches and pastries sourced from nearby pâtisseries. Be sure to try a slice of the pecan tart or pistachio mousse cake, which has become a local favorite. If you’re a fan of fromage, Fromagerie des Cantons in Granby is an essential stop for locally made cheeses that pack well in panniers and pair perfectly with a riverside view.

At Bistro Kapzak in Granby, discover an intriguing mix of Polish-Québecois flavors in dishes like borscht with a Québec twist. For a taste of something more daring, visit Absintherie des Cantons just outside of town. Here, you can learn about the distilling process of absinthe and even sample a sip of this storied spirit, served with the traditional slow pour over a sugar cube to bring out the aromatic flavors of anise and wormwood.

 

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Scenic Lake Views and Cultural Landmarks

As you near the midpoint of the journey, the route becomes a little more challenging, with inclines that offer panoramic views of the Eastern Townships’ lakes and mountains. Magog is a standout destination on this leg, where Taverne 1855’s farm-to-table ethos shines through in dishes that celebrate Québec’s seasonal bounty. Nearby, Le Vieux Clocher, a historic concert venue, adds a cultural note to the experience, offering a glimpse of Québec’s vibrant arts scene and a chance to relax in the lively town atmosphere.

One of the most scenic stretches follows the Massawippi River into the village of North Hatley, renowned for its cozy cafés and artisanal shops. At Massawippi Mercantile, savor a prosciutto sandwich paired with one of their house-baked breads, an energizing meal for the final kilometers of your journey. This is also a prime location to enjoy Québec’s stunning fall foliage if you’re visiting in autumn, when the vibrant red and orange leaves frame the gentle blue of the lake.

What to Pack and Plan

The Véloroute Gourmande can be enjoyed over a weekend or stretched into a leisurely five-day adventure. If you plan on traveling light, don’t worry—Montréal has ample bike rental options, and Voyager à Vélo offers a shuttle service from Sherbrooke back to the city, making it easy to plan a one-way journey. Monday and Tuesday closures are common along the route, so try to schedule your ride accordingly to ensure that the full range of eateries and markets are open.

While the route is manageable for most riders, packing a few essentials—padded shorts, a waterproof jacket, and a spare inner tube—will make your journey all the more comfortable. Some cyclists also recommend planning stops in advance, as the high volume of options can make it hard to decide where to eat and rest. The Véloroute Gourmande’s interactive map, complete with icons for culinary stops, historical sites, and bike repair shops, can help you navigate and select the best spots for your taste and pace.

 

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Sherbrooke and the Taste of Success

The last leg of the journey takes you from Eastman to Sherbrooke, with plenty of rewarding food stops to keep you fueled. La Station Café in Eastman, with its gallery space and community vibe, is a favorite for bikers needing a caffeine boost before tackling the final hills. Arriving in Sherbrooke, the bustling streets and variety of eateries signal the end of the trail. Celebrate with a plate of local charcuterie, a glass of Québecois cider, or—if you’re still feeling adventurous—a round of foie gras with blueberry compote.

More than Just a Trail

The Véloroute Gourmande is an invitation to slow down and savor Québec’s countryside, culture, and cuisine. Beyond just a cycling route, it’s a celebration of Québec’s commitment to sustainable, local food and its rich heritage. Whether you’re a novice cyclist or a seasoned rider, this trail promises not just a journey, but a feast for the senses. And for anyone looking to connect with Québec’s culture, history, and incredible culinary landscape, there’s simply no better way to explore. So pack your panniers, grab your helmet, and get ready to pedal through one of Canada’s most delicious adventures.