Île d’Orléans

Île d’Orléans, a Living Cradle of Traditional Quebec

 

Île d’Orléans is an island in the St. Lawrence River located about 5 km downstream east of downtown Quebec City. The island was one of the first places to be colonized in New France, and a large percentage of French Canadians can trace their ancestry back to the island’s first inhabitants. It has been described as the “microcosm of traditional Quebec and the birthplace of French-speaking North America” and has approximately 7,000 residents spread across 6 villages.

 

With nearly 7,000 permanent residents, Île d’Orléans brings together 6 municipalities, each with its own distinctive features but a shared charm. Discover the history and attractions of each municipality with the help of the map.