From picturesque hikes to fine wine tastings, the Eastern Townships are a must-see destination for an idyllic summer in Quebec! Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure or gastronomic discoveries, there’s no shortage of options in this incredible region that stands out even in the most prestigious international rankings! To help you plan your next getaway, here are 10 amazing activities to rediscover the Townships this summer, while making it more memorable than ever!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
1. Explore the Eastern Townships wine route
Wine enthusiasts will love visiting the Eastern Townships since the region is full of renowned vineyards that will allow you to taste the best of Quebec viticulture like Cep d’Argent, located near Lake Magog. If you like popping bubbly, it’s the perfect place for a sparkling wine tasting, made according to the traditional Champagne method. Among their large selection, you’ll also find excellent white and red wines that you can enjoy on their pretty covered terrace or during a stroll among the vines.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Offering a spectacular view on Lake Brome, we also suggest a stop at Léon Courville, a vineyard that will charm you with its warm welcome, its picturesque landscapes, but especially its exceptional wines. Founded in 1999, they cultivate grape varieties such as Vidal, Seyval and Baco Noir, producing award-winning wines.
During our recent stay in the Eastern Townships, we also discovered a new favorite: Vignoble du Ruisseau in Dunham! In addition to a complete tour of the premises, including the magnificent European-inspired cellar, we learned more about the production of their delicious wines, which use patented geothermal technology to preserve the vines during the cold season (a world first in their field).
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
We were also treated to a tasting of their delicious wines as well as their apple and maple-based spirits, coming directly from the orchard and maple grove on the vineyard’s lands. Among our favorite products to try during your visit, we particularly recommend the Riesling, the Pinot Noir, the elderberry aperitif cider and the coffee liqueur!
Finally, you can’t explore Eastern Townships’s wine route properly without stopping at Val Caudalies vineyard. Founded by three high school friends in 2005, Val Caudalies’ product variety is impressive and can suit any taste. We particularly liked their rosé as well as their vermouth, which reminded us of our trip to Andalusia with its herbal aromas.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
2. Stroll through lavender fields
Si tu veux te transporter en Provence le temps d’un après-midi, arrête-toi chez Bleu Lavande à Magog. Tu pourras te balader librement dans leurs champs parfumés tout en sirotant une limonade à la lavande devant ce joli paysage coloré. Pour en apprendre plus sur la culture de la lavande au Québec, une salle interactive, créée en collaboration avec Moment Factory, te permettra aussi de plonger plus en profondeur dans ce monde floral. Ne pars pas non plus sans passer par leur boutique remplie de produits artisanaux, dont notre favori: le miel à la lavande.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
3. Hike through spectacular landscapes
If you want to explore the region’s most beautiful natural landscapes, you won’t be short of options. In addition to the superb Mont-Orford National Park and Owl’s Head Mountain, Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook will allow you to check off an additional activity on your bucket list: crossing the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America! You’ll also find four lush trails, counting for more than 19 kilometres and featuring many magnificent viewpoints. This is an unmissable experience to add to your Eastern Townships itinerary whether you’re with family, friends or your significant other.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Then, continue your day at Mont-Orford National Park, where hikes for all levels are available. For an easy stroll with breathtaking scenery, choose the Étang-Fer-de-Lance trail or the Boucle-des-Trois-Étangs trail, both with an elevation gain of 50 metres. For those who like a challenge, the Mont Chauve trail, stretching over 10.6 kilometres and with an elevation gain of 310 metres, promises a more intense hike.
4. Taste the Eastern Townships’ best flavors
To treat yourself to one of Quebec’s best ice creams, stop by the Laiterie de Coaticook. If you want to quench your thirst with a good beer, don’t miss a visit to Canton Brasse to taste the best artisanal brewing creations of the region. For a decadent grilled cheese, stop by La Shop, also a perfect spot to grab a good coffee before continuing with your day’s activities.
To find everything you need to prepare a festive picnic or a gourmet dinner with Eastern Townships’ best flavors, you must stop by Atelier du pain. You’ll find a host of tasty local products ranging from artisanal baguettes to fine cheeses, fruity tarts and rillettes of all kinds. If you prefer not to cook, end the day by picking up a delicious pizza from Deux Tomates in Orford. Offering an evolving menu as well as a wide variety of incredible pizzas, this cozy pizzeria is sure to delight foodies.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
If you’re looking for an elegant restaurant for a romantic date, we couldn’t recommend more chef Hakim Chajar’s brand new restaurant Ôma! Located in Vignoble du Ruisseau, the menu is using fresh, local ingredients, many of which are grown on-site. In addition to the inventive and exquisite dishes from start to finish, the service is impeccable and the decor is sublime, even offering a view of the vineyards! In short, a gastronomic gem in a bucolic location, an absolute must-see!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Our favorites plates during our visit: the grilled asparagus, the candied salmon that literally melted in your mouth and the fresh pasta with lamb, a pure delight!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Finally, if you have a sweet tooth, add the chocolate museum in Old Bromont to your itinerary. In addition to learning more about the origins of your guilty pleasure, you can taste fine chocolates of all kinds, including our favorite: the lemon truffle.
5. Spend the day at the spa
Surrounded by nature and bordered by the Castle Brook River, Spa Nordic Station is definitely one of the most beautiful spas in Quebec. In addition to its magical setting, you’ll have access to many different facilities, including Californian hot baths, a Finnish dry sauna, a Russian banya, a steam crypt and refreshing waterfalls to immerse yourself in deep relaxation. And if you need an extra dose of rest, many massage treatments are available on site to complete your wellness day.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
6. Relax at Magog Bay Park
To soak up the sun while relaxing to the sound of the waves, Magog Bay Park is the perfect place. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing swim, a picnic, a little sunbathing, a reading session or just a walk along the water, this lovely park has everything you need! Open year-round, it also has a children playground and watercraft rentals. Free and accessible, it’s the ideal park for a peaceful day in the heart of the Eastern Townships.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
7. Wander through the best antique shops
If you like decorating your home with accessories that can’t be found anywhere else, a visit to the region’s best antique shops is a must during your getaway. In addition to making discoveries, it will also allow you to bring back a little bit of the Eastern Townships home. Among the boutiques not to be missed, note La Belle Vieillerie in Bromont, Maison Bergeron in Sutton and Boutique Chapeau Melon in Knowlton, three shops that will surprise you with their unique objects and vintage furniture.
8. Take a sunset cruise
There’s nothing better than an happy hour or a dinner on the water to enjoy golden hour in the best way possible! By booking a cruise with Escapades Memphrémagog, you can sail on the peaceful waters of Lake Memphrémagog while admiring breathtaking landscapes. Several options are available to you, including the Bubbly Hour which includes a 90-minute ride and a welcome cocktail for $50 per person.
9. Watch the stars in an incomparable setting
To end the day on a high note, head to the ASTROLab to watch the stars without light pollution. It’s definitely the perfect place to add even more magic to your stay in the Eastern Townships. If you’re short on time during your summer getaway, we recommend coming back in the fall to enjoy Mont-Mégantic National Park at its most flamboyant.
Crédit photo: Astrolab
10. Explore Foresta Lumina’s night trail
If you’re looking for a special activity to end your stay in the Eastern Townships, dive into the world of Foresta Lumina’s night trail. Created by Moment Factory, this 2.6-kilometre illuminated trail will transport you to the heart of the legends of the Quebec forest thanks to its light projections and superb installations. Ideal for families, couples and adventurers of all ages, the experience costs around $23 per adult and $13.50 per child.
Where to stay during your getaway to the Eastern Townships
Chalets Hygge
Real Eastern Townships’ gems, Chalets Hygge are perfect for those looking to slow down surrounded by nature. Nestled in the gorgeous Chéribourg estate near Mont-Orford, these six chalets whose names evoke the most beautiful Nordic cities, promise a relaxing stay. After trying three chalets during three different seasons, we’re still charmed by their cozy atmosphere and Scandinavian style, where each room is bathed in natural light. Attention to detail is evident in each chalet, where Kerri and Philippe, the amazing owners, will treat you with the utmost care.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Domaine Château-Bromont
Offering elegant rooms with views of the surrounding mountains, this 4-star hotel will also allow you to relax in its indoor and outdoor pools as well as in its hot tubs on its large terrace. An Amérispa center is also available on site if you want to treat yourself to a massage or a skin care treatment. With a golf course nearby and three different restaurants (Les 4 Canards, Le Beagle Club and La Panoramique), all your needs will be taken care of while staying there.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
We hope our recommendations will make it easier to plan your next summer getaway in the heart of the Eastern Townships! One thing is certain, unforgettable moments and surprising discoveries await you in this idyllic region that is definitely worth the detour!
Have a wonderful time!
*This article was written following a press trip with Tourisme Cantons-de-l’Est and Hôtel Château-Bromont. It’s based on our own experience and authentic opinions.
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