Portrait of the region

Home / Discover the region / Portrait of the region

NICOLET-YAMASKA, AN URBAN RURALITY!

The MRC of Nicolet-Yamaska was established in 1981, replacing parts of the former counties of Nicolet and Yamaska. Located in the heart of the Saint Lawrence plains, the Nicolet-Yamaska region is bordered by the Saint-Pierre Lake Biosphere Reserve and traversed by the Nicolet and Saint-François rivers. Along your journey, 16 towns and villages, as well as the Indigenous reserve of Odanak, share the stories that shape our traditions.

From our natural resources emerge outdoor and water activities. The Saint-Pierre Lake Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO) reveals an exceptional aquatic environment where humans, wildlife, and flora coexist harmoniously. Nicolet-Yamaska is a bucolic region and a cyclist’s paradise. It is crossed by Route Verte No. 4 for nearly 70 kilometers and features 400 kilometers of scenic country bike routes. An agricultural panorama showcases the passion of local artisans. The diversity of crops, livestock, and food processing represents a treasure trove of local flavors. Here, art, history, Abenaki culture, and religious beliefs from around the world come together in our museums and art centers. Finally, we celebrate with festivals and events that, through their uniqueness, mark the identity of the region!

For more information, visit: https://mrcnicolet-yamaska.qc.ca

The municipalities of the region

Aston-Jonction

Aston-Jonction : At the Crossroads.

At the intersection of the Grand Trunk Railway and the main Montreal-Quebec line of the Canadian National Railway, Aston-Jonction was officially established in 1916 on a vast, fertile, and relatively flat terrain. Commonly referred to as “Aston,” the town features a charming parish church, built in 1931, where a Casavant organ from the Petit Séminaire de Nicolet resonates beautifully. Additionally, Aston-Jonction was the residence of Madame Françoise Gaudet-Smet (Gaudetbourg) for many years. Even today, this residence is a source of pride in our heritage.

1300 Rue Principale

Aston-Jonction

(Québec)

G0Z 1A0

Baie-du-Febvre

Baie-du-Febvre is located south of Lac Saint-Pierre and is recognized as an important migratory stop for waterfowl. It is a municipality where nature and culture blend seamlessly, distinguished by the solidarity and hospitality of its citizens, its tourist attractions, and its agricultural lands that benefit from respectful and innovative practices in environmental preservation and sustainable development. This municipality boasts exceptional biodiversity (Saint-Pierre Lake Biosphere Reserve) and hosts nearly 500,000 snow geese during their spring migration. The sight of their flights is magnificent and grand!

Among the tourist attractions are Challenge 255 and Rodeo 255. Théâtre Belcourt is also a key venue in the municipality, featuring a beautiful performance hall that can accommodate renowned artists and has 340 seats. It is a comfortable and spacious venue for both the public and artists!

298 Route Marie-Victorin

Baie-du-Febvre

(Québec)

J0G 1A0

Grand-Saint-Esprit

Grand-Saint-Esprit, a rural municipality, geographically presents the aspect of an elongated quadrilateral with two parallel sides. The double row is bordered by primarily single-family homes, farms, and a few businesses. The territory has developed beyond the South Shore of the Saint Lawrence River and is bordered by five parishes. The village’s infrastructure allows for various recreational activities: a playground, a community and crafts hall, croquet, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, and hiking. These are likely significant assets that make this village a welcoming and restful place.

5410 Rte Principale

Grand-Saint-Esprit

(Québec)

J0G 1B0

La Visitation-de-Yamaska

Founded in 1899, the municipality is primarily characterized by its agricultural activities; however, in recent years, there has been an influx of city dwellers who are drawn to the tranquility and beauty of the landscape. La Visitation-de-Yamaska hosts various groups year-round that have found the ideal place for diverse activities, facilitated by the rental of the Recreational Center (formerly the village school). Thanks to the financial support generated by the annual Tractor Pull event at the end of August, as well as the involvement of many volunteers, a multifunctional skating rink was built in 2008, much to the delight of citizens and visitors. The people of La Visitation-de-Yamaska are welcoming, warm, and supportive. Come visit us!

21 Rue Principale

La Visitation-de-Yamaska

(Québec)

J0G 1C0

Native community – Odanak

For over 300 years, the Abenaki people have lived in Odanak, an Indigenous community located along the Saint-François River. This ancient people continues to practice its traditional activities, which you can observe during the annual Pow Wow held on the first weekend of July. Dances, songs, and traditional dishes provide an intimate connection with the 300 residents of the Abenaki community. When visiting Odanak, be sure to stop by the Musée des Abénakis, the first Indigenous museum in Quebec, and meet the artisans in their shops.

102 Rue Sibosis

Odanak

(Québec)

J0G 1H0

Nicolet

Nicolet was named in honor of its discoverer, Jean Nicolet de Belleborne. It was founded in 1672 and was originally called Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Nicolet. The city is easily accessible thanks to its privileged location in Centre-du-Québec. Nestled at the confluence of the Nicolet River and the mouth of Lake Saint-Pierre, Nicolet offers a variety of tourist attractions, activities, and services in a rural setting rich in history. Dynamic businesspeople and numerous community, cultural, and sports organizations actively contribute to the quality of life in our area.

180 Rue de Monseigneur Panet

Nicolet

(Québec)

J3T 1S6

Pierreville

The Municipality of Pierreville is the perfect place for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts due to its accessibility to the Saint-François River and Lake Saint-Pierre. Additionally, Pierreville boasts a large floral basin, with flowers sold throughout the province. Beyond the agricultural opportunities that the Municipality of Pierreville offers, it is also recognized for cycling tourism in the region, as it provides pleasant rest stops, such as farmers’ market kiosks, a fish market, a waterfront park, and a trail along the Saint-François River that offers beautiful scenery.

26 Rue Ally

Pierreville

(Québec)

J0G 1J0

Saint-Célestin paroisse

The municipality of the Saint-Célestin Paroisse is primarily agricultural. Many farms have been operated by generations of families for several decades. The economy includes a number of service businesses that have emerged alongside this primary industry. Additionally, there is a historical site dating back to 1905, a beautiful covered bridge spanning the Blanche River. It is named the Étienne-Poirier Bridge in memory of a pioneer who passed away many years ago. When visiting the municipality, you will discover a peaceful and charming place, with a close-knit community where it is good to live

990 Rang Pays Brûlé

Saint-Célestin

(Québec)

J0C 1G0

Saint-Elphège

Saint-Elphège is a charming little village situated along the Saint-François River, whose origins are tied to the arrival of several families from old France. It offers a wonderful opportunity to fully enjoy nature, with its cycling trails in the summer and snowmobile or ATV paths during the winter.

245, rang Saint-Antoine

Saint-Elphège

(Québec)

J0G 1J0

Saint-François-du-Lac

Often overlooked by many, Saint-François-du-Lac boasts stunning landscapes and abundant nature along the Saint-François River. Explore charming little spots from towns to villages, and come enjoy the various attractions of the area along with the warm hospitality of Bas Saint-François, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

400 Rue Notre Dame, C.P. 60

Saint-François-du-Lac

(Québec)

J0G 1M0

Saint-Léonard-d’Aston

Located centrally among major urban centers (Drummondville, Trois-Rivières, Victoriaville), the municipality of Saint-Léonard d’Aston offers exceptional services that make it a thriving community while enjoying the charm of the countryside. Come discover our beautiful municipality, and you’ll find a wonderful place to live!

370 Rue Principale

Saint-Léonard-d'Aston

(Québec)

J0C 1M0

Saint-Wenceslas

It all began in 1856 with the layout of the Grande Ligne (Route 161). The canonical erection of Saint-Wenceslas took place in 1857 by Mgr. Cooke, bishop of Trois-Rivières. The first session of its council was held on August 1, 1864, under the leadership of Mayor Grégoire Poirier. In 1922, the village separated from the municipality. Then, on October 11, 1995, the new municipality was created by merging the old municipality with the village of Saint-Wenceslas. Now, it’s your turn to write history!

1065 Rue Richard

Saint-Wenceslas

(Québec)

G0Z 1J0

Saint-Zéphirin-de-Courval

Located halfway between Drummondville and Nicolet, Saint-Zéphirin de Courval spans 71 square kilometers, with over 90% dedicated to agricultural production, including dairy and pork. Beautiful businesses have been passed down through generations.

1471 Rang Saint Pierre

Saint-Zéphirin-de-Courval

(Québec)

J0G 1V0

Sainte-Eulalie

While turning towards industrialization with the development of an industrial park and a commercial zone at the crossroads of Highways 20 and 55, the Municipality of Sainte-Eulalie stands out for its agrotourism attractions, offering a variety of local products and unique cultural experiences. As an agricultural municipality, Sainte-Eulalie is also known for its antique shops along the Antique Route.

757 Rang des Bouleaux

Sainte-Eulalie

(Québec)

G0Z 1E0

Sainte-Monique

Near Routes 226 and 259, Sainte-Monique offers breathtaking views of the Nicolet River, rolling hills, and several attractions in the Nicolet-Yamaska MRC. It provides a calm and healthy living environment surrounded by nature, just a stone’s throw from the city, the best of both worlds!

247 Rue Principale

Sainte-Monique

(Québec)

J0G 1N0

Sainte-Perpétue

Close to Route 259 and Highway 20, Sainte-Perpétue showcases primarily agricultural landscapes. This small village is a summer hotspot for its Festival du Cochon, a family gathering featuring the famous greased pig race, various sports competitions, and performances by popular artists.

2197 Rang Saint-Joseph

Sainte-Perpétue

(Québec)

J0C 1R0

Village de Saint-Célestin

Découvrez Saint-Célestin, un charmant village qui allie plaisir et traditions au cœur de la nature. Chaque été, ne manquez pas le Festival du Blé d’Inde, une fête populaire et familiale où musique, bonne nourriture et animations rassemblent petits et grands pour célébrer cette récolte gourmande. Les amateurs de sensations fortes seront aussi comblés avec SC Performance Karting, un circuit qui promet adrénaline et divertissement pour tous les passionnés de vitesse. Entre événements festifs et activités captivantes, Saint-Célestin est une destination idéale pour une escapade pleine de découvertes et de bonne humeur!

510 Rue Marquis

Saint-Célestin

(Québec)

J0C 1G0

Consent to cookies

This website uses cookies for its proper functioning and to analyze your interaction with it, in order to offer you a personalized and improved experience. We will only use cookies if you give your consent by clicking "Accept All". You also have the option to manage your cookie preferences by accessing the settings via the "Customize" button.

Customizing cookies

Necessary (required)
Analytics
Advertising
Other
Search
Search