Discover the experience
Since 2009, the Val Notre-Dame Abbey in the Lanaudière region has been the residence of the monks who moved from the Oka Abbey. Val Notre-Dame Abbey is famous for its store, stocked with products made by the monks from ingredients found in the forest as well as a range of other local gourmet items. The forest surrounding the abbey also promises a wealth of gourmet discoveries. The abbey’s Maison des forestibles offers workshops on cooking edible products from the forest, mushroom and herbal tea picking outings, and activities demonstrating various techniques for cultivating the land.
And if you visit the Saint-Benoît-du-Lac Abbey in the Eastern Townships, you’ll get to see the fruits of the monks’ labour prominently featured in its onsite store. The vast orchard means making apple products is a cinch. Sparkling ciders made following the champagne method, apple butter and berry jam are just a few of the gourmet products sold on site. And how about the abbey’s blue cheeses? Several of them have received prestigious awards, and they are simply delicious. It is also possible to visit the premises with the help of an audioguide, and in the fall, the abbey offers apple-picking.
Here’s a story steeped in sweetness and authenticity! The Mistassini Trappist Monk chocolate factory was established in 1944. The monks quickly got to work making chicken-shaped Easter chocolates that caused a sensation in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region. They have since perfected their art and invented the famous chocolate-covered blueberries. Today, the monks and their employees make them with the utmost care. You can purchase these and other regional products at the shop. You can also choose to stay a bit longer by visiting the economuseum, attending religious services or taking a walk on the Monasteriorum pilgrim route at the nearby Grandes-Rivières regional park.
At the Monastère des Augustines, the wellness experience combines heritage and holistic health. A stay in this restored former cloister in Old Québec City is the perfect opportunity to nourish body and soul, while promoting physical and mental well-being. In addition to the silent breakfast offered with packages, the Monastère’s culinary philosophy promotes the principles of mindful eating and invites you to take your time to savour the food offerings of its Le Vivoir restaurant and order counter in an environment conducive to relaxation and rejuvenation.
Once the cradle of seigneurial life in the Châteauguay region, the Manoir d’Youville is now a charming resort with everything to please food lovers. Its bistro, La Traite, showcases local flavours, offering some 30 beers from local microbreweries, a number of Quebec ciders and wines, as well as dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Its location in a former dairy adds to its appeal. The Manoir’s dining room also offers buffet-style dishes, often prepared using regional products.
