Man on top of a mountain in Haut-Richelieu.

The Richelieu River: where hot-air balloons and cycling trails await

Published on August 3, 2026 • Destinations to explore

Haut-Richelieu is the kind of place that’s meant to be enjoyed all summer long. All the way into fall, riverside activities, cycling, festivals, and budget-friendly outings offer countless ways to spend your vacation. The Richelieu River winds through the region, never far from wherever your adventures take you. Just a short drive from Montreal, the Haut-Richelieu region proves that an unforgettable summer getaway doesn’t require travelling far or spending a fortune.

The Richelieu River: where hot-air balloons and cycling trails await

This article is presented by

Tourisme Haut-Richelieu

Outings for every budget

Planning your family vacation? Haut-Richelieu makes it easy with five free or low-cost activities that are sure to delight kids and parents alike. Some take just an hour, while others can fill an entire afternoon. Best of all, most don’t require booking ahead, so you can decide what to do based on the weather or simply how you’re feeling that day. Whether you prefer cycling or hiking, you’ll find plenty of ways to spend a full day in the great outdoors.

Mother and son on top of a mountain in Haut-Richelieu.

Must-see events this summer

In August, hot-air balloons fill the skies over Haut-Richelieu. The International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu returns from August 7 to 9 and August 13 to 16, with morning flights and evening shows. On August 22 and 23, La Boom Déry keeps the festivities going with family-friendly activities and local flavours in the heart of Old Saint-Jean. History enthusiasts won’t want to miss The Great Fire of 1876, on view through October 11 at the Musée du Haut-Richelieu. Through period artifacts and immersive recreations, the exhibition commemorates the 150th anniversary of the fire that devastated downtown Saint-Jean.

Exploring the region on two wheels

In Haut-Richelieu, cycling is both a pastime and a way to get around. The region’s cycling network features hundreds of kilometres of quiet roads and nearly flat trails, perfect for family rides. Young riders keep up with ease, while parents soak up the views of the fields and the Richelieu River. Looking for a ready-made itinerary? The Here, We Pedal microadventure combines local food stops with scenic viewpoints, making it easy to slow down and enjoy the moment. The Chambly Canal bike path takes you past locks and tree-lined banks, while Le Montérégiade winds through farmland toward Granby. Set out in the morning then head home in the evening feeling refreshed after a day outdoors—without ever getting stuck in traffic!