This road trip takes you to places of worship that are havens of quiet contemplation. The stunning site of the Sanctuary invites visitors to enjoy a moment of peaceful reflection amidst the beauty of nature. A work of art that’s unique in the region and possibly even in Canada, the crypt at Saint-Télesphore will fill you with wonder! The tour wraps up at the Église Saint-Michel, a magnificent heritage building whose beauty will take your breath away. The church also hosts the occasional music concert.
From Rigaud to Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot
1/2 day
80 km
4 stops
1
Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes
2
Crypte du cimetière de l'église de Saint-Télesphore
Set against the backdrop of stunning Rigaud Mountain, Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes is a pilgrimage site of rare beauty. It is a spiritaul heritage from generation to generation since 1874. From the end of May, the sanctuary is open until October. Visit the Sanctuary Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes and attend mass under the trees, have a picnic and enjoy the pleasures offered by such a beautiful environment. From the historic chapel, look out the beautiful view of the town of Rigaud, the Ottawa River and the rich landscape of Vaudreuil-Soulanges. It is a beautiful place to discover!
Beneath the crucifix of the St-Télesphore Cemetery lies a crypt unique in the region, and possibly even in Canada. Built in 1940 by Avila Cuillerier, the crypt is a marble and granite wonder that holds 56 coffins, including those of founding priest Émile Sauvé and Father Marcel Lussier. While the crypt is not open to the public, those interested in religious and spiritual heritage will be charmed by the simple sight of this place of worship, a unique work in our region and perhaps even in Canada!
Built in 1783, Saint-Michel Church is one of three churches in the Saint-Michel Parish. The neo-gothic building is best known for its bell tower, which was reconstructed according to original plans following a fire. Located right in the heart of Old Vaudreuil, Saint-Michel Church is definitely worth the photo op! No matter what the time of year, this church is alive with activity. Full of celebration, this heritage building hosts concerts and other cultural events. In winter, lanterns light up the grounds, recalling days since past.
The Fondation du patrimoine Sainte-Jeanne-de-Chantal has protected and conserved one of only ten 18th century rural architectural sites in North America, whose history stretches back to the days of the seigneurs. The Île-Perrot landmark is easily accessible from Montréal and Ontario and boasts a remarkable view of the St-Lawrence River. The church dates back to 1774, decorated with excellent examples of wood sculpture; visitors will also have a chance to explore the 1780 presbytery, 1792 cemetery, and Québec’s only terraced cemetery. Take a guided tour or use an audio guide. The site also boasts a theatre in the chapel, a meeting space in the presbytery and church, and often has exhibitions and concerts playing in a church with excellent acoustics. The Chapelle enchantée puts on exciting shows all summer long for children and adults alike.
