Panoramic Views of the St. Lawrence River
At the entrance to Île d'Orléans, Les Ancêtres Auberge & Restaurant stands facing the island bridge with a view of Montmorency Falls. This country inn, 15 minutes from Old Quebec, reveals its many charms throughout the seasons.
The establishment showcases its attractions across three spaces with a chic and rustic character. The bright conservatory that basks in summer light with its panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River, the covered and heated terrace, and the warm three-hundred-year-old house with stone walls. This architecture bridging yesterday and today tells the family story that resonates in every corner.
This bright room becomes the perfect stage for long summer meals, where everyone savours the magnificent sunsets over the river while enjoying cuisine from the island's terroir. To fully enjoy this privileged space, the establishment opens at 3 p.m. with an aperitif menu for the summer season.
Mornings bathe the ancient stone in golden light, while evenings transform the conservatory into a cozy refuge facing the river waters. A beautiful way to create memorable experiences in this exceptional setting.
A Reimagined Culinary Tradition
Chef Benoît Boudreau, responsible for the creation, revisits traditional Quebec cuisine without losing its authenticity. Inspired by Marie-Paule's family recipes, the bistronomic approach marries French techniques with a contemporary touch.
The menu reveals a skillful balance between traditional Quebec dishes and contemporary bistronomic creations, offering a culinary diversity that satisfies all palates.
The menu prioritizes short supply chains and local producers. Farm cheeses, poultry raised on the island, artisanal ciders, and wines from the terroir compose an offering faithful to the territory and its authentic flavours.
From plate to welcome, every detail respects memory, nature, and the local art of living.
A Family Heritage Rooted in History
Les Ancêtres has perpetuated since 1970 the dream of Marie-Paule Vézina, descendant of Jean Leclerc, the first settler installed on this land granted by Mgr de Laval in 1662. The name pays tribute to past generations who shaped this territory from the beginning of the 17th-century colony.
Pierre Gosselin and his partner Mireille Clavet, current owners, have taken up the family torch with a clear vision: marrying ancestral recipes with a modern bistronomic approach.
From the beginning, many artists and known personalities have had the honour of welcoming the Ancêtres family. Félix Leclerc used to take his meals near the hearth. On his birthday in 1974, he wrote in the guest book: "It's still at Les Ancêtres that we feel best, a new air drawn from the depths of ages..." Long live the island!"
They pass down the art of hospitality from generation to generation, welcoming both evening visitors and inn guests alike.
A First Since 1970: Les Ancêtres Auberge & Restaurant Open Year-Round
This year marks a historic first in the establishment's life: Les Ancêtres now opens its doors year-round. Gone are the winter closures, making way for discovering the four seasons of Île d'Orléans and the art of living where time rediscovers its flavour.
Imagine yourself savouring a meal facing the frozen river in February, or admiring the flamboyant maples from the terrace in October. Add to this the autumn colours, the mist of rainy days, and the calm of winter. A year-round opening allows for celebrating various events.
At Les Ancêtres, each season reserves its pleasures and each visit becomes an invitation to rediscover Île d'Orléans in a new light.
