Attractions and Places To See around Varennes - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Varennes include a mix of historical landmarks, natural features along the Saint Lawrence River, and cultural sites. This Quebec city, one of the oldest parishes, offers a diverse range of points of interest. Its 10.2 km shoreline provides scenic views and opportunities for nautical activities. The area combines its rich heritage with modern community aspects.
Best attractions and places to see around Varennes
- The most popular attractions is Chablis Old Town, a…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Saint-Martin Collegiate Church
Highlight • Religious Site
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Chablis Village and Vineyards
Highlight • Settlement
The surrounding vineyards, planted solely with the Chardonnay grape variety, cover 4,800 hectares, …
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Chablis Old Town
Highlight • Settlement
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Saint-Florentin
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during the …
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Pontigny Abbey
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Tips from the Community
Excellent restaurant open on Sundays!
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Beautiful church in Chablis currently being renovated
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I walked past without seeing it 😂😂
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The Saint-Martin collegiate church from the 12th and 13th centuries is very well preserved. The church is definitely worth a visit. A special feature is the south portal, whose door wings are decorated with various horseshoes. Built in 1160, rebuilt from 1220. Apart from the tower, all the walls date from the Middle Ages. The paintings from the 13th century and the horseshoes on the side gate identify the building as a stage on the St. James pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. The various restorations have not changed the building, with the exception of the tower, which was added in 1852. https://www.moulindelacoudre.fr/de/2017/02/11/die-stiftskirche-saint-martin/
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Nicknamed the golden gate of Burgundy, Chablis is a charming town obviously famous for its prestigious wine. The surrounding vineyards, planted solely with the Chardonnay grape variety, cover 4,800 hectares, making it the largest in Yonne. And one of the oldest as well since vines have been cultivated there since the 9th century; and from the Middle Ages, Chablis wines were exported to England, Paris, Rouen, Picardy and Flanders. The old town therefore offers an interesting historical heritage including two churches, a priory, a picturesque wash house and an old gate with two towers. Every Sunday morning (from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.) a Burgundian market is held in the heart of the city where you can find many local producers.
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Cistercian monks settled here in 1114, in this valley near the Serein, where a forest reigned. They built a huge abbey: 4000m² on the ground, 120m long. Second daughter of Citeaux, Pontigny is thus the largest Cistercian abbey church in the world. The Revolution put an end to the presence of the monks and the church became parish in 1803. It was classified as a Historic Monument in 1840 in the first list drawn up by Prosper Mérimée, a sign of its heritage importance. Marked by the austere thought of Saint Bernard, the Cistercian church is deliberately devoid of images and colors. The search for spiritual perfection is reflected in an architecture in search of the essential, and which gives importance to the diffusion of natural light. Pontigny perfectly embodies this research. The abbey church marks the transition between Romanesque and Gothic. We can distinguish two construction campaigns with an older part of Romanesque style and a second part influenced by the Gothic style. The road enters the domain and arrives at the foot of the abbey. Above all, do not hesitate to cross the portal.
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Every Sunday morning from 8:30 a.m. there is a large market in the old town of Chablis. A visit to the market and also the old town is highly recommended. And of course there are lots of wineries here. Only Chardonnay is grown.
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The Saint-Martin collegiate church from the 12th and 13th centuries is very well preserved. The church is definitely worth a visit. A special feature is the south portal, whose door wings are decorated with various horseshoes. Like many church buildings from the early Middle Ages, the Saint-Martin collegiate church (built in 1160, rebuilt from 1220) was inspired by the cathedral of Sens. Apart from the tower, all the walls date from the Middle Ages. The paintings from the 13th century and the horseshoes on the side gate identify the building as a stage on the St. James pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. The various restorations have not changed the building, except for the tower, added in 1852, whose top is 50 meters high. https://www.moulindelacoudre.fr/de/2017/02/11/die-stiftskirche-saint-martin/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main historical landmarks to visit in Varennes?
Varennes is rich in history. You can explore the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Varennes, a prominent stone church with Gothic and Romanesque revival elements. Another significant site is the Sanctuary of Saint Marguerite d'Youville, dedicated to the first native-born Canadian saint, which includes an interpretation center. Don't miss Vieux-Varennes (Old Varennes), the city's historic core with picturesque heritage homes, and the two classified historical monuments, the Chapelles de procession (Saint-Joachim and Sainte-Anne).
What natural features can I explore along the Saint Lawrence River in Varennes?
Varennes boasts a 10.2 km shoreline along the Saint Lawrence River, offering scenic views and opportunities for nautical activities. The main public green space is Parc de la Commune, located directly on the river, perfect for walks and picnics. You can also see approximately twenty islands facing Varennes, with Île Sainte-Thérèse being the largest and popular for pleasure boating.
Are there family-friendly activities available in Varennes?
Yes, Varennes offers several family-friendly options. Parc de la Commune features extensive green space, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds. During summer, a River Shuttle provides transport for passengers and bicycles, offering a unique way to see the river. The city also has various cycling paths suitable for families. For winter fun, cross-country skiing is available in Parc de la Commune and along Parc Saint-Charles.
What cultural sites are there in Varennes?
Beyond its historical landmarks, Varennes has a vibrant cultural scene. The Bibliothèque de Varennes (Jacques-Lemoyne-de-Sainte-Marie Library) hosts various cultural activities and exhibitions. The Sanctuaire Sainte-Marguerite-d'Youville is also a significant cultural site detailing the life and work of the saint. For arts, check out Espace des Bâtisseurs for workshops and events, and the Pavillon des Arts de la scène at Collège Saint-Paul for performing arts.
What outdoor activities can I do in Varennes?
Varennes is great for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy cycling on dedicated paths, including those within Parc de la Commune. The Saint Lawrence River offers opportunities for nautical activities. In winter, cross-country skiing is popular in Parc de la Commune and along Parc Saint-Charles. For more structured sports, the Sportplex de l'énergie has ice rinks and fitness facilities. You can also find various running trails around Varennes and cycling routes around Varennes.
Are there any unique local experiences or 'hidden gems' in Varennes?
Varennes offers some unique local experiences. You can visit local sugar shacks like Cabane à sucre Famille Fortier for a taste of traditional Quebecois maple products. The region also features vineyards such as Le Château de la Grange and Vignoble Domaine du Fleuve. For a quiet escape, explore Bois de Verchères, a wooded natural area, or the Frayère St-Charles, connected to Parc de la Commune.
What kind of cycling opportunities are available in Varennes?
Varennes is well-suited for cycling, with paths available within Parc de la Commune and connections to nearby routes like the Gouin East Cycleway. During summer, the River Shuttle allows you to transport your bicycle across the Saint Lawrence River, expanding your cycling options. You can find various cycling routes around Varennes, including options for road cycling.
Can I find equestrian centers in Varennes?
Yes, Varennes is home to several equestrian centers. Notable options include Écurie Maurice Houle, Équitation CG, and Centre Équestre Belle Rivière, offering opportunities for horse riding and related activities.
What is the best time to visit Varennes for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Varennes depends on your preferred activities. For cycling, nautical activities, and exploring parks, the spring, summer, and fall months offer pleasant weather. For winter sports like cross-country skiing, the colder months when snow is present, typically from December to March, are ideal.
Are there any archaeological sites or discoveries in Varennes?
Recent archaeological digs in Varennes have uncovered vestiges of the Moulin Brodeur and La Saline, a former spa town. There are plans to exhibit artifacts from these discoveries, offering a glimpse into the region's deeper past.
Where can I find a good spot for a picnic or to relax outdoors in Varennes?
Parc de la Commune is the premier spot for picnics and relaxation, offering extensive green space right on the Saint Lawrence River with walking paths and playgrounds. Another suitable rest area is Parc du Bout-de-l'Île, which provides picnic tables, a shelter, a playground, and nice views.
What kind of sports facilities are available in Varennes?
Varennes offers the Sportplex de l'énergie, a modern sports complex. It features NHL-sized ice rinks, squash courts, and various fitness facilities, catering to a range of indoor sports and activities.
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