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3.7 Charlesbourg Sat March 22, 2025

3.7 Charlesbourg

Originally founded as a 17th-century Jesuit colony, Charlesbourg has grown and developed over the years, eventually merging with Québec City in 2002. As you explore this livable district, slow down and admire fine examples of French and Québécois architecture from multiple centuries.

Charlesbourg is a large, historic borough in the northeastern part of Quebec City, Canada, known for its residential character, green spaces, and significant historical sites like the Jesuit-planned Trait-Carré village and Moulin des Jésuites. It maintains its distinct charm with local markets, breweries, cafes, and numerous festivals, offering a mix of suburban life and rich heritage, located west of Beauport.

Trait-Carré village

Start at Charlesbourg’s southern end, at the iconic Trait-Carré. Appreciate the stylings of this well-preserved historic village, originally built by Jesuits in the shape of a star for ease of defence. Head to the green heart of Trait-Carré for a scenic walk or picnic in the much-loved Parc de la Commune. Varied concerts take place at its bandstand through the summer.

The Trait-Carré is a unique, star-shaped historic village and a heritage site within the Charlesbourg borough of Quebec City, notable for its well-preserved 17th-19th century French colonial architecture, ancestral homes, and the historic Jesuit Mill (Moulin des Jésuites), offering walking tours to explore its rich history and quaint atmosphere, making it a charming spot for cultural exploration.

Saint-Charles-Borromée Church
7990 1re Av., Québec, QC G1H 4M6

https://www.quebec-cite.com/en/businesses/eglise-saint-charles-borromee

This church is the work of Thomas Baillairgé. Designated an historic monument, it is located in the heart of Trait-Carré. The church houses spectacular golden treasures and sculptures by Québec's leading religious artists. Its permanent exhibit covers four centuries of sacred art.

Constructed from 1828 to 1830 and named a heritage building in 1959, this church in honour of St. Charles Borromeo is a major neoclassical achievement by architect Thomas Baillairgé. Established canonically in 1693, the church parish contains a rich, though little-known, collection of notable works from Québec's art history, including paintings, textiles, goldware, silverware and sculptures from the 17th to the 20th centuries.

Parc de la Commune
8228 Le Trait Carré O, Québec, QC G1G 4B8

https://www.ville.quebec.qc.ca/citoyens/art-culture/lieux-animation/estivale/parc-commune/

A bucolic green oasis in the heart of the Trait-Carré district of Charlesbourg, the Commune Park is the ideal place for a stroll or a country picnic.

The bandstand located there hosts a wide variety of concerts during the summer months. It is also the preferred location for several cultural and family-oriented festivals and events. Bordering the Châteauguay River, Parc de la Commune is a welcoming green space where a variety of activities can be enjoyed. A multi-use asphalt path, offering both sun and shade, provides a beautiful view of the river and Île Saint-Bernard. The site is part of the Châteauguay-Léry Green Corridor, a network of high-value natural areas that connect Île Saint-Bernard to the Fernand-Seguin Ecological Centre.

Moulin des Jésuites

7960 Boul. Henri-Bourassa, Québec, QC G1H 3G3

https://www.moulindesjesuites.org/

After a break at one of many local cafés and restaurants, continue on to the Moulin des Jésuites, a lovingly restored rustic water mill from the 18th century. Learn about Charlesbourg’s history at the exhibit inside, join a guided walking tour or simply enjoy the mill’s decorative gardens.

Farther north, take a scenic forest walk at Parc des Verveines. Explore sprawling Parc des Moulins, where landscaped gardens and pools lie alongside woodland with trails groomed for hiking and snowshoeing.

For more winter fun, head to one of Charlesbourg’s ski parks. At the non-profit Ski de Fond Charlesbourg, pick from 15 cross-country skiing trails before relaxing at a heated chalet or the restaurant, which is open on weekends.

Charlesbourg is located northwest of Québec City, about a 20-minute drive from the city centre and 25-minute drive from the airport. Travel by bus from downtown in about 1 hour. The historic region around Trait-Carré is easily navigated on foot, with the Parc des Moulins about a 20- minute bus ride north from there. Rent a car to best access the ski parks.

Café - Pizzéria La Maison Smith

7685 1re Av., Québec, QC G1H 2Y1

https://smithcafe.com/en?srsltid=AfmBOoo9K-FJ6swppSkDLRWWcLEjwYMZGvOXLO3OaLsCXguKGv4ZWxhl

Café - Pizzéria La Maison Smith is housed in a heritage home.

Centre De Ski Le Relais

1084 Bd du Lac, Lac-Beauport, QC G3B 2P9

https://www.skirelais.com/

Le Relais is a ski mountain just 15 minutes from downtown Quebec City, Canada. It is the smallest of the four ski stations located near Quebec City with Mont Sainte-Anne, Stoneham and Le Massif.