Cap-Saint-Ignace, a picturesque municipality in the Montmagny Regional County Municipality within the Chaudière-Appalaches region of Quebec, Canada, is a must-visit destination. Nestled on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River, this charming town is just 70 km east of Quebec City on Route 132.
Cap-Saint-Ignace is strategically located on the scenic chemin des Pionniers Ouest, also known as Highway 132. It's at the junction of the route du Petit-Cap, accessible from provincial Autoroute 20, the Autoroute Jean-Lesage. The town spans a total area of 227 km2 and borders the scenic St. Lawrence River, offering privileged access to the river and migratory bird sanctuaries.
The town's motto, "Mets le cap sur la vaillance," translates to "Vigilance is your bearing." This motto has earned the people of Cap-Saint-Ignace the popular nickname of "les Vaillants." The town is named after its protector, Saint Ignatius of Loyola, and its emblems are the native blue flax and the eastern bluebird. The blue flax, native to the countryside, is known for its use in clothing linen and medicinal properties. The eastern bluebird, renowned for its songbird qualities, frequents the local orchards, farms, hedgerows, and rock dikes in the area.
Cap-Saint-Ignace is home to the Petit-Cap ("Little Cape") and the ancient government pier, among other local attractions. The area is dotted with trails, observation posts, and rest areas with interpretive panels on the local fauna, flora, and the area's rich and colourful history. The fall migration of snow geese, among other species, is a spectacular sight.
For cycling enthusiasts, the chemin des Pionniers Ouest offers countless hours of scenic riding. There are four main cycle circuits: Route Verte or Green circuit, Route des pommes or Apple circuit, Campagnard or Country trek, and the Seigneurial trek. These circuits include rest areas and places where travellers can purchase meals, snacks, refreshments, and souvenirs.
Cap-Saint-Ignace hosts many events throughout the year. One of the highlights is the Feast of the Saint-Hubert (1–3 Sep), held in honour of the Saint and patron of hunters. The event features a procession and solemn mass to the sound of French horns accompanying the great organ pipes, a meal, clay pigeon shoot, equestrian demonstrations, and other activities related to the hunt.
