The Kamouraska region is known for its community initiatives and the originality of its entrepreneurship in many respects. The population of Saint-Denis-de-la-Bouteillerie is no exception. When Father Jean-Baptiste Ouellet, the last priest to live in the rectory next to the parish church, left in 2014 after 36 years, the decision was made to revitalize this gem of a building, built in 1895.
In 2017, the Corporation pour le maintien des lieux historiques de St-Denis was created to structure the project to revitalize the rectory. A social economy enterprise made up of community administrators proposed turning the building into an inn with a café. A fundraising campaign raised funds from several local and regional partners to acquire the building in 2018. A team of volunteers then completed the renovations, so the inn could welcome guests to its five rooms and offer breakfast and snacks at the adjacent café.
Each room has retained its authentic charm and has its own private bathroom. Common areas are also available: a living room with a piano, a beautiful dining room, and a common room with a microwave and refrigerator. The room the bishop occupied during his annual visit is also available to visitors, explains Sylvie Gendron, one of the administrators.
The non-profit corporation, operating as a social economy enterprise, employs seven people for the café kitchen and the inn's housekeeping. The inn welcomes guests year-round, but the café is open from Friday to Sunday. It serves a healthy menu featuring local products, available for dining in or takeout.
Working with history, heritage, landscapes, and regional traditions, and making them the foundation of their actions. Ensuring community ownership of the development of the services it needs. Placing local and regional attractions, as well as the expertise of the people of Kamouraska, in the foreground. This is what motivates and inspires the Maison Jean-Baptiste team.
A warm and friendly stop awaits visitors passing through Kamouraska.
La Maison de Jean-Baptiste
lamaisondejeanbaptiste.com
5, route de l’Église
Saint-Denis-De-La-Bouteillerie (Québec) G0L 2R0
418.894.2213