Just a short drive from Montreal is a region known for lush and vibrant apple orchards. Apple picking on the South Shore of Montreal has become a tradition, and if you get a chance to visit at least one, itβs totally worth it. Itβs an iconic βRive-Sudβ activity when autumn arrives!
Itβs not just about apple picking here, either. Ciders, jams, and vinegars are also being made on-site for you to try. Bring your walking shoes so you can explore the beautiful and endless orchards in comfort. Oh, and donβt forget your camera.
Why the South Shore is Known for Apple Picking
The south shore of Montreal, also known as MontΓ©rΓ©gie, is home to numerous orchards that grow a variety of apple types. The climate and soil in this region are ideal for apple cultivation, resulting in high-quality and flavourful apples.
The area experiences warm summers and cool autumns, which are optimal conditions for apple trees to flourish. As a result, the apples grown here are not only delicious but also fresh and ripe, making for a perfect apple-picking experience.
As you wander through the orchards, youβll be treated to stunning views of rolling hills, quaint farmhouses, and vibrant autumn foliage. This idyllic setting adds to the overall charm of apple picking in this region.
When Is the Best Time to Go Apple Picking on the South Shore of Montreal?
The best time of year to go apple picking on Montrealβs south shore is from mid-September to mid-October. This is when the apples are at their peak ripeness and ready to be picked. The crisp fall weather creates the perfect atmosphere for apple picking, with cooler temperatures and colourful foliage adding to the experience.
Obviously, every year is different as climate changes make for earlier or later falls.
What Products Can Be Found in Most Orchards?
These orchards often have markets or farm stands where visitors can purchase freshly harvested apples, and other produce such as pumpkins, squash, and honey. Some βvergersβ (orchards) also offer hayrides and petting zoos, allowing visitors to enjoy a fun-filled day with their families.
Many apple orchards host special events and activities such as cider tastings, fall festivals, and cooking classes featuring apple recipes. Most provide fresh apple cider and baked goods made from their own apples.
On top of all of these products, you can enjoy some of these activities, so be on the lookout for family fun, couples great date ideas and foodie outings!
- Picnic spots
- Guided tours
- Animals and farm, petting zoo
- Playgrounds and play areas
- Workshops
- Wagon rides
- Hiking trails
Top 4 Orchards on the South Shore of Montreal
Let me save you some googling and list my 4 favourite apple orchards on Montrealβs south shore. Youβll find everything youβre looking for at these and then some, as they are some of the Rive-Sudβs best apple-picking spots.
Vergers et Cidrerie Denis Charbonneau
Location: Mont-Saint-GrΓ©goire
Apples: Melba, Paulared, Lobo, Ginger Gold, McIntosh
Cider: Yes
Operating Hours: Daily Sept-Oct, weekends year-round
Vergers et Cidrerie Denis Charbonneau farm has been owned and operated by the Charbonneau family for over five generations, starting in 1880. They offer a wide variety of apple products and classic apple options.
Visitors can also indulge in delicious apple-based treats such as apple cider, apple butter, and homemade pies, making the orchard a perfect spot for apple lovers.
Vergers Pierre Tremblay et Fils
Location: Mont-Saint-Hilaire
Apples: Yellow, Melba, Beautiful View, Jersey Mac, Sunrise and many more
Cider: Yes
Operating Hours: Year-round, 7 days a week, 8 am to 6 pm
This orchard makes the list for its incredible selection of apples. They have over 20 different varieties available at any given time. Vergers Pierre Tremblay et Fils has a long-standing history in the area that has only gotten stronger over time.
Established in 1931 by Pierre Tremblay, this family-owned orchard has over 125 acres of land, including fields, orchards, and forest. Not to mention, their extensive store is filled with all kinds of local farm products.
Cidrerie et Vergers St-Antoine
Location: Saint-Antoine-sur-Richelieu
Apples: Red Free, Sunrise, Ginger Gold, McIntosh, and many more
Cider: Oh Yeah!
Operating Hours: Year-round, 5 days a week
For all the cider lovers out there, this should be your first stop. As one of the top producers in the province, they offer a premium selection of all kinds of cider using only their own apples, pressed and fermented on-site.
Cider isnβt their only specialty; other products such as apple butter, jams, and vinegars are also made from their apples. The Cidrerie et Vergers St-Antoine is a successful business and a charming experience showcasing the areaβs elite methods of apple growing.
Verger du Flanc Nord
Location: Mont-Saint-Hilaire
Apples: Multiple Varieties
Cider: Yes
Operating Hours: Sep-Oct 7 days, Nov-Aug on call
This Verger du Flanc Nord orchard offers much more than apple picking. Its breathtaking views make it a standout amongst the others. Established in 1982, its owners, the Dupuis family, take great pride in their sustainable farming practices, which add to the charm and authenticity.
Situated at the foot of Mont-Saint-Gregoire, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside through the rows of apple trees.
On top of all of these, consider also these places to pick apples on the south shore:
Mont-Saint-Hilaire
- https://www.auxvergerspetit.com/
- https://www.pavillondelapomme.com/
- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100061829298795
- http://www.vergerpomnature.ca/
- https://www.lavieillecave.ca/
Rougemont
Mont-Saint-GrΓ©goire
What to Do After Apple Picking the South Shore of Montreal
MontΓ©rΓ©gie or the south shore is located within 15 minutes of the downtown core of Montreal although most orchards are about an hour away. If you still have some energy left after a busy afternoon of apple picking, thereβs plenty to do any time of day in Montreal. Here are a few options Iβd recommend to make your itinerary complete!
- Top 5 Best Restaurants in Hudson, Quebec
- Best Montreal Ice Cream Spots
- Top 5 Things to Do Alone in Montreal
- Best Things to Do in Montreal in the Summer
What to Do in MontΓ©rΓ©gie region and How to Organize Your Trip
Curious about how to spend your day in MontΓ©rΓ©gie region? Hereβs a list of the top activities to consider adding to your plans:
- See the South Shore from a different angle with a helicopter tour
- Stay in a hotel in the heart of the popular Dix30 district
- Discover the Parc des Γles-de-Boucherville by yourself on a Fat Bike
- Taste Quebec wines while exploring the vineyards
- Enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep on the banks of the Lac des Montagnes
Preparing For Your Trip
When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa, Civitatis and sometimes even Expedia.
Itβs first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.
Need a place to sleep? I find most of my accommodations on Booking.com but I also use Hotels.com for their rewards program (11th free night) as well as Expedia. When booking smaller places in Quebec, you might not find them here and need to contact them directly.
Looking for a cheap flight to MontΓ©rΓ©gie region through Montreal or Quebec City? Have a look on Cheapoair or Skyscanner I use regularly.
Once youβre there, rent a car to roam free with DiscoverCars, AutoEurope or RentalCars or hop on a bus around Gatineau, Montreal, Quebec, and surrounding cities with Busbud.
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