Boissevain is located in the midst of prosperous agricultural land. The gently rolling hills are a stark contrast to the flat Manitoba prairie to the east. Just south of Boissevain the terrain changes again, and the Blue Hills of the Turtle Mountains can be seen in the distance. Many groups around town offer unique and scenic tours, celebrating the wild western history of the Boissevain area and southern Manitoba.
History
The Town of Boissevain is located just north of the United States border in Southwestern Manitoba. Part of the province's Westman Region, Boissevain is 45 minutes south of Brandon, the region's largest centre. Known as a community where art is popular, Boissevain boasts 24 painted murals. Boissevain is also known for its "blooming beauty", with many beautiful public and private flower gardens around town.
Economic Base
Much of the Boissevain area is actively involved in farming and agriculture. The area economy is characterised by many mixed farms and livestock operations. Cereal grains and oilseeds are the main crops, but small amounts of speciality crops are also grown. The beautiful scenery around Boissevain also supports a thriving tourism and service industry.
Major Attractions
Whether you are a permanent resident or just passing through, Boissevain and the surrounding area have numerous opportunities for leisure and recreational fun.
Many of the town's buildings have been used as a canvas for beautifully painted murals. The "Outdoor Art Gallery" as it is called, displays local history on dozens of different buildings. Tour buses bring numerous sightseers to the town each year to be photographed in front of these larger than life spectacles.
Boissevain is also an national winner of the Communities in Bloom competition. With flowers, community spirit and unrivaled facilities and opportunities, Boissevain has partnered with Audley, England to continue their winning streak on the international stage.
Another major attraction to the area is the International Peace Garden. Straddling the longest undefended border in the world, the garden is a floral tribute to the unique relationship between Canada and the United States. The meticulously kept garden is one of the most spectacular displays of horticulture in the world. Just outside the garden, only 20 minutes from Boissevain, is the Turtle Mountain Provincial Park. The park offers hiking and mountain biking trails, camping, fishing, boating, swimming, and canoeing. In the winter months, there are cross-country ski trails, groomed snowshoing trails, and over 100 kilometres of groomed and un-groomed snowmobile trails. Additional winter facilities include a toboggan slide, a public skating rink, and an outdoor hockey rink, all lighted with warming huts. Boissevain also hosts numerous annual events throughout the year. These include The Festival of the Arts, the Boissevain Fair, the Turtle Mountain Metis Days, and a Community Choir Concert.
