Les Coteaux is a captivating municipality nestled in the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Regional County Municipality, within the Montérégie region of Quebec, Canada. This charming community is situated north of the Saint Lawrence River and Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
The history of Les Coteaux is deeply rooted in the merger of Coteau-Station (north of Autoroute 20) and Coteau-Landing (south of Autoroute 20) in 1994. Before 1985, Coteau-Station was known as Station-du-Coteau.
Coteau-Landing was a historic location at the upper end of rapids on the St. Lawrence River. This was the spot where canoeing and boating parties had to land to portage around the rapids. It was formerly known as Anse-aux-Batteaux (English: Cove of Boats). At the end of the 17th century, a staging post was built there for voyageurs and fur traders. However, it wasn't until 1771 that settlement truly began.
In 1847, its post office opened under the English name "Coteau Landing". By 1853, the Village Municipality of Côteau Landing was created, and when Soulanges County was formed in 1855, the village became the county seat. The completion of the Soulanges Canal, with Coteau-Landing as its western terminus, boosted its economy. The presence of a lock and relay center with quays and wharfs, along with a regular paddle steamer service to Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, further enhanced its economic growth.
The Grand Trunk Railway was constructed in 1855 with a station just north of Coteau Landing, called Coteau Junction. In 1887, the Village Municipality of Station du Coteau was created out of territory ceded from Saint-Polycarpe. Its name was adjusted to La Station-du-Coteau, and renamed in 1984 to Coteau-Station.
In May 1994, the village municipalities of Coteau-Landing and Coteau-Station were amalgamated to form the Municipality of Coteaux, which was adjusted to Les Coteaux in June 1995.
Les Coteaux, Quebec, is a community rich in history and culture. Its unique blend of historical significance and modern charm makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the heart of Quebec.
