Curious Nature

Seigneurie des Aulnaies : experience life as it was in seigneurial times !

Roseline Houle
Written on May 17, 2017

The mill, the manor and the enchanting surroundings filled with century-old trees will take you on a trip back in time! The big mill wheel, still working today, will amaze you!

My 3 personal favourites atLa Seigneurie des Aulnaies:

  • See the biggest bucket wheel in Quebec, still in use today to produce organic flour
  • Discover the manor accompanied by a friendly guide in period costume that brings stories to life
  • Explore a flowering garden that changes every time you visit the site
La Seigneurie des Aulnaies
La Seigneurie des Aulnaies

There’s so much to visit, you could spend the day here!

As soon as you step inside, you’ll be enchanted by this seigneurial estate! The new, modern welcome area, blending into the natural surroundings, is simply delightful. A number of exclusive products are available at the museum gift shop, such as wooden necklaces made with recycled pieces of the mill’s gears.

At the miller’s house, you can buy local products , including flour that’s been milled on-site. We also offer bread that is freshly prepared every day - your taste buds will thank you!

At the mill, that dates back to 1842, the miller and his apprentice will explain the history of the mill and its operations. The big bucket wheel is the largest of its kind still in operation in Quebec! It’s quite a site to check out the weight of the water making the big wheel turn!

La Seigneurie des Aulnaies - Homme Farine
La Seigneurie des Aulnaies - Homme Farine

Just before entering the manor, which was built between 1850 and 1853, a guide in period costume is waiting to greet you. You’ll learn about their historical role at the mill and have the chance to discover how people lived back in the day. The beautiful Victorian parlour, as well as the turn-of-the-century kitchen! Why is the front door so big? Why does the staircase turn at the top? Why is the bed so narrow? You’ll discover all the answers during your visit!

Adjacent to the manor you’ll find a bountiful orchard that dates from the manor’s construction. On this charming site, you’ll also find a historical rose garden and a beautiful river. There are also age-old gardens with flowering plants all year round, thanks to a variety of plants that bloom at different times of the year, as well as a garden of utility plants. This spectacular decor is the highlight of your visit!

What part of visiting La Seigneurie des Aulnaies  excites you the most? Maybe the freshly-made bread?

Roseline Houle