The Terrebonne sector, commonly known as Old Terrebonne, is the historic heart of the present-day city of Terrebonne, which was created in 2001 through a merger with Lachenaie and La Plaine. Located on the banks of the Mille Îles River, Terrebonne is home to the iconic Île-des-Moulins, an important 19th-century pre-industrial complex that is exceptionally well preserved. In 2025, the Quebec government recommended that Old Terrebonne become the province’s 14th declared heritage site, a recognition that honors three centuries of history and an exceptional architectural heritage.

The Terrebonne area offers a European atmosphere unique in Quebec, combining living heritage and a remarkable cultural quality of life. Residents enjoy the Vieux-Terrebonne theater, a cultural venue renowned for its varied performances, the Maison d’histoire, which documents the rich local past, and numerous restaurants and shops housed in century-old buildings along Saint-Pierre and Sainte-Marie streets. The immediate proximity to the Mille Îles River allows residents to enjoy water activities, bike paths, and riverside parks throughout the year. The area has also benefited from the Bixi bike-sharing service since 2023, facilitating active transportation. Educational institutions include the Cégep régional de Lanaudière and a UQAM campus, creating a dynamic and youthful environment. Neighborhood life revolves around terraces, public markets, and numerous cultural events that punctuate the annual calendar.

The real estate market in the Terrebonne area is characterized by sought-after heritage buildings and prices that reflect its unique historical character. Old Terrebonne is particularly attractive to lovers of heritage architecture and urban neighborhood life, with renovated century-old properties that retain their period charm. The proximity of highways 25 and 640 provides easy access to Montreal in less than 30 minutes, making the area a preferred choice for professionals and families who want to combine historic charm with urban amenities. This combination of history, culture, and accessibility makes the Terrebonne area a popular destination where authenticity meets modernity in an enchanting heritage setting.