Île Sainte-Thérèse, River island in Varennes, Canada.
Île Sainte-Thérèse is a river island in the Saint Lawrence River covering around 540 hectares, featuring forests, wetlands, and agricultural fields within the Hochelaga Archipelago. Its shoreline spans about 11 kilometers and consists of clay and sand that erodes easily.
The island was first granted to Ignace Boucher in 1662, attracting settlers who established themselves there. By the late 1600s, around 53 residents lived on the land and shaped life on the island.
The island's name comes from a chapel that once stood here, dedicated to Saint Theresa. Visitors walking the grounds can sense how religious life shaped the daily routines of those who lived here centuries ago.
The island is uninhabited today and can only be reached by boat, so visitors should plan for a water-based trip. Access is limited due to its remote location, so gather information about possible tours before traveling.
Archaeological digs have uncovered traces of settlements more than 2500 years old, showing that Indigenous peoples lived along the shores for a very long time. These findings reveal evidence of occupation that long predates European arrival.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
