Île d'Orléans is an island on the St. Lawrence River in Quebec City. The island was originally inhabited by the First Nations people of Canada and used for hunting and fishing. Its fertile grounds made it attractive for the first colonists of New France.
Today, Île d'Orléans is the most important historical district of Quebec and remains dedicated to agricultural production.[1] It is the quintessential portrait of what rural life was like back in the early days of Quebec. The island is a haven of mills, farms, churches like the Basilique de Sainte-Anne de Beaupre, and 17th and 18th century homes. There are also stands all over the island selling locally woven goods and locally grown produce such as strawberries.[2] You’ll find a number of artists and craftsmen on the island as well as several boutique shops where they sell their trade. The island is also a great place for biking and driving excursions.
References:
Carroll, Donald. Insider’s Guide Canada. Edison: Hunter Publishing, Inc, 1996. ISBN: 1556507100.
“Île d’Orléans.” < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%8Ele_d%27Orl%C3%A9ans>
[1] Île
[2] Carroll, 249
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