Grondines takes its name from “the great number of large rock shoals found in front of it, which, when the wind blows, cause the waters to roar”. It is considered one of the most beautiful places in Quebec – and for good reason! The heart of the village is just a kilometer away from the Chemin du Roy (King’s Road), heading inland.
From the Église de Saint-Charles-des-Grondines church, classified as a historic monument, to the Moulin à vent de Grondines mill, the village core is filled with heritage sites where visitors can admire the vestiges of our past. These landmarks bear witness to the contributions of families who had already settled in New France, on the Côte-de-Beaupré and Île d’Orléans.
Stretching along the Saint Lawrence River for more than 20 kilometers, the municipality of Deschambault-Grondines now offers a variety of engaging activities to appreciate history, culture, the outdoors, gastronomy and local craftsmanship, including the Fromagerie des Grondines cheese shop and the Aliksir essential oils distillery. A fascinating world to explore, from past to present!
Attractions, restaurants and accommodations
Aliksir - Distillerie et boutique d'interprétation des huiles essentielles
Aliksir: this Arabic word means essence, the very nature of something. Explore the world of aromatherapy and the extraction of essential oils. Discover processes and traditional manufacturing methods born of thousands of years of experience. Pamper yourself by taking one of these little containers.
Moulin de La Chevrotière
Built in 1802, Moulin de La Chevrotière is an imposing stone building inspired by French architecture. In addition to the permanent heritage exhibitions, there are contemporary visual art and fine art exhibits.
Moulin à vent de Grondines
This windmill built in 1674 showcases its dual purpose over the years, first as a flour mill for about 200 years, then as a marine signal station for the navigators on the St. Lawrence River from 1912 to 1967.
Verger Barry inc.
This hundred-year-old family orchard specializes in apples and apple by-products. Pick your own apples, and sample homemade goodies while enjoying a spectacular view of the river. Picnic area, petting zoo, cider house/distillery and playground.