VIP Agritourism Tour of Île d’Orléans & Montmorency Falls: My Honest Review

So, you’ve booked your trip to Québec City. Flights are confirmed, the hotel is set, and now it’s time to plan your activities and figure out what’s fun to do in the region. One name keeps popping up: L’Île d’Orléans, a must-see destination just outside the city. But maybe you’re not planning to rent a car, and the thought of navigating all the farms, wineries, and tasting stops feels overwhelming. Which farm should you visit? Which winery is a must? And most importantly, you don’t want to spend the day crammed on a big coach bus with 40 other people.

That’s where the VIP Agritourism Tour of Île d’Orléans & Montmorency Fall comes in. I was invited by Emilie, the owner, to try her new L’Île d’Orléans tour, and I’m here to share my honest review of this intimate, all-day culinary and cultural experience. As a local Québec City tour guide for over 10 years and the owner of my own company, Nomad Tours Québec, I’ve developed quite a critical eye (some might even say I’m a little picky) when it comes to tourist experiences. So, will this tour pass the ‘Nomad test’? Let’s find out!

VIP Food Tour of Île d’Orléans & Montmorency Falls

Departure from the Old Quebec

Our day began in Old Quebec. The Falls and Orleans Island Tour either start at HQ’s offices on St-Paul Street or directly at the guest’s hotel, when possible. We were greeted by Alex, our driver, who was competent, courteous, and an excellent driver throughout the day. We also met our tour guide, Madeleine, a highly experienced and certified professional who immediately made us feel at ease. Traveling in a luxurious electric van, guided by such a knowledgeable and friendly host, it was clear right from the start that this would be a memorable and effortless experience.

Please note that stops and tastings may vary depending on the season and product availability, and the itinerary is subject to change.

Stop 1: Montmorency Falls

Our first stop was the majestic Montmorency Falls. From the top of the falls, we enjoyed breathtaking views of the rushing water and surrounding landscapes. We walked along the trails, took the cable car down to the base (included on the tour) , and admired the falls from multiple perspectives. Everything was pre-arranged, so we skipped the lines and fully embraced the VIP experience. Our guide, Madeleine shared fascinating stories about the falls’ history and natural surroundings, making it much more than just a photo opportunity.

Stop 2: Ferme Le Bunker on L’Île d’Orléans

Next, we traveled to L’Île d’Orléans, stopping at a former bunker, now a family farm run by its fifth-generation owner. Here, we sampled a homemade relish and took in views over strawberry, blackberry, cherry and vegetable fields. Guests can also enjoy self-picking and explore the wide variety of squash grown on-site.

At Ferme Le Bunker, We tasted their squash soup, maple caramel, and even squash chips, a novel treat for many of us. A maple syrup grading tasting (golden, amber, dark, and very dark) was a highlight, especially for me, as I have never tasted the different grades (at least not at the same time). We also learnt that The Bunker on L’Île d’Orléans was originally built in the 1950s and 60s as a CBC radio station and bomb shelter during the Cold War. It served both as a communications hub and a safe location in case of emergencies.

Even if I’m familiar with the Orleans Island, I have never stopped at Le Bunker so I really enjoyed stopping there. I couldn’t resist buying a jar of homemade relish!

Stop 3: Tigidou Jam Factory

Our next stop was Tigidou, a charming spot specializing in homemade jams and baked goods. With Pinterest-worthy décor and stunning views over the St. Lawrence River, the place was a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. We enjoyed scones with cream and jam and a fresh strawberry slushy that tasted completely homemade and was so far from the industrial slushies from my childhood. Yum!

For the adventurous, there was spicy water: sparkling water with a Tabasco-like kick. It was surprising, unusual, and a fun way to experience something new. I can’t say that I liked it but it was worth testing it. It is a foodie tour after all! I absolutely loved Tigidou. The food was amazing, the setting charming, and even if it is already one of my favourite place on the Island, I like that we had time there to sit and enjoy the view. <

At no point did I ever feel rushed during this Orleans Island Tour. With just four of us on the tour that day, the pace was totally relaxed, and it felt so easy to take everything in. The van only holds seven people, so even if it’s full, it never feels crowded, definitely not like being squeezed onto a big tour bus with 40 strangers. Honestly, it felt more like exploring the island with new friends than being on a traditional tour.

Exploring the Island

As we drove between stops, our guide, Madeleine shared personal stories and insights about life on L’Île d’Orléans. The island’s French-Canadian architecture, century-old houses, and laid-back rural vibe offered a delightful contrast to the bustling streets of Old Québec. Passing through Saint-Jean and other picturesque villages, we appreciated the peaceful scenery and intimate scale of the tour. Traveling in a small, comfortable van made the experience feel personal and relaxed, allowing us to enjoy every moment without the stress of large tour groups.

Stop 4: Domaine Ste-Famille

The fourth stop was Domaine Ste-Famille . Here, we enjoyed a relaxing experience with four different wines, charcuterie, fruits, and cheeses. Our own picnic table was reserved underneath apple trees in the orchard. That was so scenic and pleasant! The staff were welcoming, providing insightful explanations about each wine, and the atmosphere was simply perfect for savoring the flavours and views.

Is there enough food served on this food tour?
This isn’t a tour of tiny samples, it’s a full-on culinary adventure. The equivalent of a full lunch with beverages and products varying according to the season. Make sure to bring your appetite and your camera, because this tour is just as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.

Stop 5: Domaine Steinbach

The final stop was Domaine Steinbach, a fully organic orchard boasting 17 varieties of apples. Everything here is made with care and love. Guests can enjoy the outdoor terrace or patio, taking in views of the fields and the St. Lawrence River. We tasted five different ciders and a dessert wine, accompanied by homemade chips and a complimentary container of jam, which added a thoughtful personal touch to the experience.

FAQ about this VIP Agritourism Tour of Île d’Orléans & Montmorency Fall

My Final Thoughts

After Domaine Steinbach, we headed back to Old Québec. As a local tour guide who took multiple tours both here in Quebec and abroad, I can be pretty picky when it comes to experiences but I was genuinely impressed with how this tour was put together. Every stop felt carefully chosen, and the day flowed at a relaxed, enjoyable pace. It was intimate, well-organized, and thoughtful from start to finish.

For anyone seeking a VIP experience that blends history, nature, and gastronomy, this tour of Montmorency Falls and L’Île d’Orléans is an unforgettable way to discover Québec like a local.