Saint-Jean-de-l'Île d'Orléans is a beautiful village with a splendid beach, surrounded by farms producing fresh fruits. It features charming houses that have witnessed generations of sailors being born and passing away since the beginning of New France.
The marine cemetery extends onto the tidal flats, at the foot of a bright red-roofed church (1734) clinging to the shore like a stranded vessel.
In the center of the village, the Mauvide-Genest Manor (open for visits), built during the same period and recently restored, is the oldest and one of the most beautiful examples of New France architecture.
Historically, Saint-Jean-de-l'Île d'Orléans is also a maritime piloting village, rich in history and architecture.Photo: Church of Saint-Jean-de-l'Île-d'Orléans (Wikipedia)
The municipality was established in 1855 under the name Saint-Jean-Baptiste. It adopted its current name in 2003.Over time, it is in this municipality that maritime pilots have guided navigation in this sector of the river.Even today, between Les Escoumins and Montreal, commercial vessels over 100 feet long navigating the Saint Lawrence River must be guided by licensed pilots to ensure safety and protect river and marine ecosystems.Photo: farm in Saint-Jean-de-l'Île-d'Orléans (Wikipedia)