Opened in 1737, the Chemin du Roy connects Montreal to Quebec City along the north shore of the St. Lawrence. Today it is Route 138.
The itinerary
Starting from Repentigny, the road passes through Berthierville, Trois-Rivières, Batiscan and Deschambault before reaching Quebec City. Allow a full day with stops, compared with about three hours via Highway 40.
The stops
Old Trois-Rivières, the heritage houses of Deschambault-Grondines and the views over the river punctuate the route.
Which vehicle to choose
For a long, comfortable drive: a grand tourer such as the BMW M850i Gran Coupé or the Audi S8.
