Tourisme Montérégie is a regional tourism association (RTA) and private organisation that brings together 400 tourism companies in the Montérégie region. The RTA's mission is to coordinate development, hospitality and tourist information services, as well as promotion and commercialization of the Montérégie. The region is located to the south and east of Montréal. In this country of fields, forests, rivers, forts, historic sites and period homes reveal themselves to visitors. The majestic natural spaces in the Montérégie are perfect for outdoor activities, such as biking, canoeing, kayaking and bird watching. Hikers and skiers can also enjoy their favourite activities. Pleasant boat excursions are a great way to discover the animal and plant life on the Îles de Sorel, which are part of the Lac-Saint-Pierre Biosphere Reserve.