Cycling Between the River and the Fields: The Berthier Islands Cycling Route

What if your next bike ride let you discover the river from a different perspective?

In Lanaudière, the Îles de Berthier bike trail offers an accessible loop that takes you past the St. Lawrence River, farmland, and country roads. Less than an hour from Montreal, it’s the perfect route for a full day of biking.

The Route in Detail

• Distance: 78 km loop
• Estimated time: 3 to 6 hours
• Elevation gain: 10 m
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Bike type: road bike
• Suggested starting point: Saint-Ignace-de-Loyola Rectory (199 Chemin de la Traverse, Saint-Ignace-de-Loyola)
• Highlights: scenic views, river, farmland
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• Ferry service available during the summer season (The ferry operates from National Holiday through Labor Day, Friday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (continuous round-trip service; departures every hour from La Visitation-de-l’Île-Dupas; departures on the half-hour from Marina Chenal du Nord in Saint-Barthélemy) at a cost of $5 per adult and $2 per child (ages 12 and under).)
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GPX file

Starting point: Saint-Ignace-de-Loyola

Starting in Saint-Ignace-de-Loyola immediately immerses cyclists in the atmosphere of the Berthier Islands. Here, the river is an integral part of the route, winding its way through several small islands. The presence of water creates a unique atmosphere that clearly sets this route apart from more traditional rural trails. Throughout the ride, you often feel as though you’re traveling from one island to another rather than simply following a bike path. Nature lovers will also appreciate the area’s rich birdlife. Known for their diverse habitats, the Berthier Islands offer excellent opportunities to observe the birds that frequent the river and its wetlands.

Between the Route verte and Chemin du Roy

The route then heads toward Route verte #5 on Chemin du Roy, in the direction of Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Cuthbert. You quickly transition from the waterfront to more agricultural landscapes.

The fields, historic homes, and country roads completely transform the atmosphere of the route. This route will particularly appeal to cyclists who enjoy long, accessible distances, quiet roads, and panoramic views that make you want to stop and take a photo.

A little bonus: access to a ferry

From Friday through Sunday during the summer season, the ferry connects Île Dupas to Saint-Barthélemy. More than just a means of transportation on the water, it’s a real little break during the ride.

The ferry gives the route a truly unique character. You board with your bike, take the opportunity to rest a bit, and admire the scenery from the water.

Reservations are recommended, especially on beautiful summer days.

To extend your stay

After a day out, the Locomotiv microbrewery is a great place to stop. Certified “Bienvenue cyclistes” by Vélo Québec, it offers several services tailored to cyclists, including a repair station with tools, drinking water, electrical outlets, and a spot to park your bike nearby on the patio. It’s a great opportunity to unwind with a craft beer or a good meal. Don’t miss the halloumi fries—they’re truly delicious!

To better understand the history and natural wealth of the Berthier Islands, a detour to SCIRBI (Society for the Conservation, Interpretation, and Research of Berthier and Its Islands) allows you to learn more about this unique region shaped by the river. You can observe the local flora and fauna along an easily accessible network of hiking trails.

Want to extend your adventure over two days? The Days Inn Berthierville is ideally located near the trail and local amenities. It’s a convenient starting point for exploring the islands and the area’s bike paths at your own pace.