Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk - Image 1
1 / 10

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk

4.6
·3k reviews·Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Canada

A serene historic canal with a beautifully renovated boardwalk, offering picturesque views and stunning sunsets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quiet atmosphere, best light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk - Image 1

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quiet atmosphere, best light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene historic canal with a beautifully renovated boardwalk, offering picturesque views and stunning sunsets.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"An underrated gem offering a beautiful, soothing experience with spectacular sunset views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍦 Grab an Ice Cream

Enjoy a sweet treat while relaxing and watching the canal activity. A simple pleasure highly recommended by visitors.

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Stroll

The boardwalk isn't extensive, making it ideal for a relaxed walk rather than a long hike. Enjoy the views at your own pace.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Canal Locks

The Historic Canal Locks

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal

Witness boats gracefully pass through the historic locks, connecting Lake Saint-Louis and Lake of Two Mountains. A fascinating glimpse into maritime history.

Reddit
Renovated Boardwalk & Jetty

Renovated Boardwalk & Jetty

Boardwalk along the canal

Stroll along the beautifully renovated boardwalk, offering picturesque views of the canal and the St. Lawrence River. Perfect for a leisurely walk.

Reddit
Spectacular Sunset Views

Spectacular Sunset Views

Western end of the boardwalk

Experience breathtaking sunsets over the water, a truly magical and soothing sight that has been praised by visitors.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

While the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk offer a peaceful escape, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light for photos and a more serene atmosphere. Reddit

Embrace the Local Vibe

This charming spot is perfect for a relaxed half-day outing. Pack a picnic or enjoy ice cream while watching boats navigate the locks. The adjacent village boasts lovely restaurants for a more extended stay. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quiet atmosphere, best light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Stunning sunsets
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🍦 Grab an Ice Cream

Enjoy a sweet treat while relaxing and watching the canal activity. A simple pleasure highly recommended by visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Stroll

The boardwalk isn't extensive, making it ideal for a relaxed walk rather than a long hike. Enjoy the views at your own pace. Reddit

🌅 Don't Miss the Sunset

The sunset views here are often described as spectacular and are a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

🍽️ Explore Village Dining

The nearby village offers several nice restaurants, perfect for extending your visit with a meal. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🍦 Grab an Ice Cream

Enjoy a sweet treat while relaxing and watching the canal activity. A simple pleasure highly recommended by visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Stroll

The boardwalk isn't extensive, making it ideal for a relaxed walk rather than a long hike. Enjoy the views at your own pace. Reddit

🌅 Don't Miss the Sunset

The sunset views here are often described as spectacular and are a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

🍽️ Explore Village Dining

The nearby village offers several nice restaurants, perfect for extending your visit with a meal. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk for its tranquil atmosphere, scenic beauty, and the fascinating historic locks. The renovated boardwalk and jetty are highlighted as wonderful additions, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the water views. Many also appreciate the charming nearby village with its dining options. While not a destination for extensive activities, it's cherished as a peaceful escape and a spot for beautiful sunsets.

"Visited Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue canal with my family after the lunch. A historic landmark consist of set of locks linking Lake Saint-Louis and Lake of Two Mountains. Upon chatting with local residents, they mentioned it is being used for recreational boating. A nice place to walk and a quiet atmosphere. A lovely view of St Lawrence river."

Singhania Group

"A beautiful site and the renovated jetty is wonderful! It’s not very big,
so unless you’re bringing a picnic or a fishing rod it won’t take very long to visit the site, but it’s well worth visiting. The village also has some very nice restaurants to choose from."

Olaf de Winter

"Although the boardwalk is not too long, it’s a beautiful place to have an ice cream and jus relax overseeing the cannel and lake Louis"

Cyril Cheung

What People Like

Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Scenic canal and river views
Historic locks in operation

What People Dislike

Not a large area for extended visits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The canal is accessible by car, with parking available in the vicinity. Public transport options, including buses, also serve the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue area. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas available near the canal and boardwalk, though they can fill up during peak times. Reddit

Cycling is a popular way to reach the canal, with dedicated paths in some areas. The boardwalk itself is also pleasant for cycling. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk is generally free. Enjoy the scenic views and atmosphere without any admission cost. Reddit

The canal locks operate during specific hours, primarily for recreational boating. It's best to check the official waterway schedules for exact times. Reddit

The boardwalk is typically accessible during daylight hours. For the best experience and safety, plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can watch boats navigate the historic locks, enjoy a leisurely walk on the renovated boardwalk, take in scenic river views, and experience beautiful sunsets. Reddit+2

The renovated boardwalk is generally flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Reddit

Yes, there are benches along the boardwalk and the renovated jetty provides ample space to sit and enjoy the water views. Reddit

Fishing might be possible in designated areas, but it's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits beforehand. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Absolutely! The charming village of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, adjacent to the canal, offers a variety of nice restaurants to choose from. Reddit

While there aren't dedicated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and find a spot on the boardwalk or jetty to enjoy a picnic with a view. Reddit

Yes, visitors often enjoy getting ice cream while strolling along the boardwalk, and cafes are available in the nearby village. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The locks themselves, the renovated boardwalk, and the views of Lake Saint-Louis offer excellent photographic opportunities. The sunsets are particularly stunning. Reddit

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons and evenings provide beautiful golden hour light and dramatic sunset colors. Reddit

Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. Be mindful of any private property or specific signage. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk offer a gentle and engaging experience for families. Kids will be fascinated watching the boats navigate the historic locks, a real-life lesson in engineering. The renovated boardwalk is safe and easy to navigate with strollers, and there's plenty of space to run around a bit. Reddit

Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the water, or grab an ice cream for a sweet treat. The relaxed atmosphere means you don't need to rush, making it a perfect spot for a low-key family outing. The nearby village also offers family-friendly dining options to round off your visit. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples seeking a peaceful retreat, the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk are ideal. The serene environment, especially during weekdays or off-peak hours, provides a perfect setting for quiet contemplation or a romantic stroll. Enjoy the picturesque views of the canal and the St. Lawrence River at your own pace. Reddit+1

Don't miss the opportunity to witness a beautiful sunset, which is often cited as a highlight. Afterwards, explore the charming village for a delightful meal at one of its many restaurants, making for a perfect evening out. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture stunning shots at the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk. The historic locks, the interplay of light on the water, and the architectural elements of the area offer diverse subjects. The renovated jetty provides unique vantage points for capturing boats in motion. Reddit+1

The real magic happens during the golden hours. Early mornings offer soft, diffused light, while late afternoons and evenings are renowned for their spectacular sunsets, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Be sure to bring your camera to document these breathtaking moments. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Canal System

The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal is a vital part of the historic Quebec waterway system, linking the St. Lawrence River to the Ottawa River. It consists of a set of locks that allow boats to navigate the elevation changes between Lake Saint-Louis and Lake of Two Mountains. This engineering marvel has been crucial for transportation and commerce for decades, and today it serves primarily recreational boating. Watching the lock operations is a fascinating experience, showcasing the ingenuity of past engineers. Reddit

Locals mention that the canal is actively used for recreational boating, adding a dynamic element to the otherwise tranquil atmosphere. The renovated jetty enhances the visitor experience, providing a modern and accessible platform to observe the boats and the surrounding scenery. It's a place where history meets present-day leisure, offering a unique perspective on the region's connection to its waterways. Reddit

Experiencing the Boardwalk and Village

The boardwalk along the canal has been beautifully renovated, offering a pleasant and accessible path for visitors to stroll. It provides lovely views of the water, the boats passing through the locks, and the picturesque landscape. Many visitors find it to be a perfect spot for a relaxed walk, perhaps with an ice cream in hand, simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Reddit

Beyond the boardwalk, the adjacent village of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is known for its charming atmosphere and a good selection of restaurants. This makes the canal area an ideal destination for a half-day outing, combining a scenic walk with a delightful meal. The combination of natural beauty and local amenities contributes to its reputation as an underrated gem. Reddit

The Magic of Sunset

One of the most frequently praised aspects of visiting the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal and Boardwalk is the opportunity to witness spectacular sunsets. The western-facing views over the water create a breathtaking backdrop as the sun dips below the horizon. This natural spectacle is often described as soothing and uplifting, making it a must-see for visitors. Reddit

Many travelers recommend timing their visit for the late afternoon or early evening to catch this daily display. The tranquil setting, combined with the vibrant colors of the sunset, creates a memorable and almost therapeutic experience. It's moments like these that highlight why the canal is considered such a special place by those who visit. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2