Between the River, Nature and Scenic Roads
Cyclotourism
From the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Saint-Pierre to countryside cycling routes and the welcoming atmosphere of downtown Sorel-Tracy, Éric Durand’s itinerary highlights the places that have shaped his everyday life for years. Passionate about the outdoors, cycling, and boating, he shares some of his favourite spots to fully experience the natural beauty and unique charm of the region.
Défi vélo du fleuve
What makes this place extraordinary or unique: Being able to ride along the river and cross through the islands by bike, with beautiful scenery all along the way.
Your personal connection or experiences with this place, if applicable: I love doing my bike training rides from my home all the way to the end of Chenal-du-Moine. Riding there with the wind at my back is always enjoyable… even if the ride back against the wind is a little less fun haha!
Can you share an anecdote or special memory?: It’s always fascinating to see the river’s water level change throughout the summer. The landscape is constantly evolving, making every ride feel a little different.
Baie de la Vallière
What makes this place extraordinary or unique: Its marshlands and exceptional wildlife.
Your personal connection or experiences with this place, if applicable: It was the park of my childhood.
Can you share an anecdote or special memory related to this place?: My family had a trailer on Île du Domaine in Yamaska, where we spent the entire summer. I often rode to the bay dam to go fishing. Sometimes, I would cross it to get to Sainte-Anne, where the Maison du Marais is located today.
I truly believe one of the most beautiful cycling routes would be to connect Sainte-Anne to Yamaska with a bike path crossing through the bay, then return via the cycling path in Saint-Robert.
Lake Saint-Pierre, Baie Saint-François and the Yamaska River
What makes this place extraordinary or unique: Fishing on what feels like a true “sheet of glass,” a perfect expression to describe the lake when it is completely calm and windless.
Your personal connection or experiences with this place, if applicable: I spend my summers there fishing, boating, and exploring the islands of Sorel.
Can you share an anecdote or special memory related to this place?: There are so many! To me, it is one of the region’s greatest treasures, yet it remains relatively unknown to the rest of Québec because you need a boat to truly discover and enjoy it.
Downtown
What makes this place extraordinary or unique: We know almost everyone who works there, which creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Your personal connection or experiences with this place, if applicable: It’s my go-to gathering place with friends and the perfect spot to enjoy local businesses.
Can you share an anecdote or special memory related to this place?: Even when you go there alone, you almost always end up running into friends and finding a reason to celebrate together.
Route 235 between Yamaska and the Massueville Bridge
What makes this place extraordinary or unique: The stunning panoramic views along the entire route.
Your personal connection or experiences with this place, if applicable: It’s a cycling route well known among cyclists, called the “Tour des Vallons.”
Can you share an anecdote or special memory related to this place?: This route is very challenging for me, but the scenery is so beautiful that it makes every bit of effort worth it.