July 23, 2024

Explore Old Sainte-Rose: A Perfect Day in a Charming Neighborhood

Summer

Culture, Museums, History

A neighborhood steeped in history

Located along the Mille-Îles River in Laval, the Vieux-Sainte-Rose neighborhood has retained all the charm of villages of yesteryear. The architecture of its various sites and buildings reflects the rich heritage of this neighborhood, which was once a popular vacation spot for the bourgeoisie.

Now renowned forits excellent restaurants, craft and antique shops, and other unique attractions, Old Sainte-Rose is bustling year-round. We invite you to explore this historic district and spend a day there.

A Day with Eau Perséides

On August 10, Vieux-Sainte-Rose will come alive at the Berge des Baigneurs with “Une journée Eau Perséides, ” a themed event focused on water, space, nature, and humanity. Organized by the Centre de l’interprétation de l’eau (C.I.EAU), the event features scientific activities, a lecture, andtelescope viewing.

Among other things, visitors will enjoy activities from the Armand Frappier Health Museum, including “On your marks, get set… drink water!” and a program on biodiversity led by Éco-Nature at the Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles. An exhibition at the C.I.EAU will explainhow water quality affects swimming in Sainte-Rose. You’ll even have the chance to tour a drinking water filtration plant in virtual reality!

To round off the evening in style, you can watch the Perseids, a meteor shower, and learn about the phenomenon with the help of amateur astronomers and the participation of the Cosmodome.

Click here to view the full program.

Old Sainte-Rose Fair

Since you’ll be in the neighborhood for “Une journée Eau Perséides”onAugust 10, come check out the Vieux-Sainte-Rose Fair. From August 8 to 11, you can discover unique handmade crafts and local products, sample a variety of cuisines, watch street performances, and participate in creative workshops.

Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles

For a day of exploration, head to Rivière-des-Mille-Îles Park, the largest protected wildlife area in the metropolitan region. Do you have an adventurous spirit? Rent a boat. You can choose between a kayak, canoe, rowboat, rabaska, or stand-up paddleboard, and set off to explore the islands and marshes. You can follow a self-guided tour of your choice and even enjoy a picnic on one of the islands.

Introduce your kids to fishing or learn the ropes with a guide by participating in the “Fishing for Beginners” and “Guided Family Fishing” activities.

A hiking trail lets you take in the full beauty of the shoreline. For sunset lovers, nothing beats a kayaking adventure at dusk, which is offered on weekend evenings.

The Exploration Center, with its free children’s exhibit “Unbelievable, but True!” and the ecology lab, guarantees you’ll make some wonderful discoveries.

Outdoor escape game at Immersia

Did you know that Immersia offers a new outdoor escape game? It’s called Operation Sainte-Rose, the mission begins at theImmersia branch in Laval. Then, head to Old Sainte-Rose to put your brain to the test, find clues, and foil SpiderTech’splans. It’s a great way to enjoy the summer and explore the neighborhood’s secrets with your eagle eye. Go ahead, lace up your sneakers, bring your cell phone, a water bottle, and sunscreen, and come take on the challenge with friends!

Let's take a coffee break

Take a coffee break and discover unique, gourmet products from Quebec at Les Minettes. In this boutique-café, you’ll find local ready-to-eat items, the perfect gift, or simply treat yourself to home décor, kitchenware, or wellness products.

The Water Interpretation Center (C.I.EAU) in Laval

Located on the banks of the Baigneurs, the C.I.EAU presents the interactive exhibition “The Water Cycle: From River to River,” which raises awareness about the importance of protecting this natural resource. Learn more about the water cycle, wastewater treatment, and how filtration plants work.

The Bathers' Bank

A popular spot for paddlers to launch their boats, the Baigneurs riverbank offers a magnificent view. Stop by after your visit to the C.I.EAU to have a picnic at one of the tables and take a walk along the riverbank.

The unique atmosphere of the restaurants

Yacht Club Decor

Does the river make you crave seafood? Go eat at the Boating Club and enjoy the terrace. You’ll be charmed by this restaurant-bar, whose decor evokes the yacht clubs of yesteryear. Savor some oysters or beautifully presented dishes.

Italian cuisine

If you prefer a more intimate atmosphere, treat yourself to the delicious Italian dishes prepared with passion at Amato restaurant , located in a historic house. Its terrace, one of the most beautiful in Laval, is well worth a visit! The garden’s splendid flowers, the fountain, and the gazebo will enchant you!

La Vieille Caserne Art Gallery

At La Vieille Caserne Art Gallery, the Rose-Art Corporation, composed of professional artists from Laval and the surrounding area, organizes painting and sculpture exhibitions year-round. On Saturday and Sunday afternoons, you can even meet artists at work there.

Heritage tours and themed tours

To explore the full history of Old Sainte-Rose, download theParcourir Laval mobile app or sign up for a guided heritage tour. These walking tours, led by actors from the Réseau ArtHist, bring the neighborhood to life by combining history and theater. Characters from the past will tell you about life in days gone by. Don’t miss it!

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