EASTERN TOWNSHIPS
A true staple of any Quebec travel guide, the Eastern Townships region is known for its country pleasures, its picturesque villages with their theatres, art galleries, antique shops and cafes, its fine dining and its Route des Vins (wine route).
The undulating hills and colourful landscapes of the Eastern Townships make this a unique destination and one of the most beautiful regions during the indian summer in Canada.
MONT-ORFORD NATIONAL PARK
Come enjoy the mountains, lakes and mature sugar maple forests of Mont-Orford National Park.
PARC NATIONAL DU MONT-ORFORDSeason: The park is open year-round, but the period during which services are available varies according to sector. Visitor Centre: www.sepaq.com/pq/mor |
HIKE UP MOUNT ORFORD
One of the best ways to discover the park is to explore its many hiking trails or take the ski lift up to the summit of Mount Orford, where you will enjoy many spectacular views of the region (available only during the "Flambée des couleurs" from mid-September to mid-October).
You can also climb up to the television tower, which is not part of the national park, for a panoramic view .
LAC STUKELY BEACH
Stukely Lake is located within Mont-Orford National Park. Its beach is supervised and offers a playground for children. Swimming is possible from early July to early September.
WINE ROUTE
The renowned Wine Route winds its way along scenic country roads and through 9 of Quebec's most charming villages along a 140 km signposted route, offering visitors and wine-lovers the chance to visit more than 20 wineries and their many products.
Plan to visit no more than 3 to 4 wineries in one day (a visit can last 30 to 45 minutes and guided tours take about 1 hr.). Most wineries offer wine tasting, a boutique and picnic facilities.
YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS:
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ABBAYE DE ST-BENOÎT-DU-LAC
The Abbey is located near Lake Memphrémagog. Discover the serene beauty of a place of peace, silence and prayer. The boutique offers a wide variety of products made by the community such as cheeses, cider, jams and preserves. You can also take a guided tour. And be sure to take a stroll through the orchards to pick apples or simply admire the scenery.
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES IN THE TOWNSHIPS!The Townships Trail is a tourist route that winds its way through the region, introducing visitors to its most beautiful landscapes and its rich heritage. The history of the Eastern Townships was marked by the arrival of American, Loyalist, Scots and Irish settlers at the end of the 18th and through the 19th centuries. Along the way, you will discover picturesque villages, covered bridges, a 12-sided barn, interpretation centres, museums, churches and much more. Keep your eyes wide open! Don't miss our favourite villages: North Hatley , Knowlton (Lac Brome), Bromont , Sutton , Dunham and Frelighsburg. |
LAKE MEMPHRÉMAGOG CRUISE
Discover majestic Lake Memphrémagog aboard the Grand Cru, a cruise boat that can accommodate up to 176 passengers. As well as taking in the magnificent scenery, you can enjoy a gourmet meal. Several different outings are offered, from May to October. Reservations recommended (819-843-7000).
Les Excursions L’Air du lac offers more intimate cruises aboard the Entregens II, a pontoon that accommodates up to 12 passengers. Captain Jean-François offers 3 narrated outings. The Sunset Privé lasts 2.5 hours and is a personalized cruise. Bring your swimsuit, your lunch and your drinks. The Happy Hours lasts 2 hours and is perfect for having a drink on the lake. The 1 hour Route du Montre takes you along in search of the Memphré monster. Several departures during summer. Reservations required (819-345-7450).
BROMONT WATER PARK
This mountain water park offers a range of attractions that will refresh and amuse the whole family. These include 4 heated pools, including a wave pool, and several water slides of varying thrill levels. The entry fee includes mountain activities such as the Biking Experience, Alpine Luge and a chairlift ride to admire a panoramic view of the region. Restaurants, shops and entertainment on site.
GRANBY ZOO
A visit to the zoo is a busy day of fun for the whole family. The zoological garden houses an extensive collection of animals from Asia, Oceania, South America and Africa. The site also features a large water park to cool off and an amusement park with rides to provide a few thrills. There are also several restaurants.
The zoo is open year round, but the operating hours vary according to the season and activity.
NEARBY
ABÉNAKIS MUSEUM
The Abenaki Museum is Quebec’s first Aboriginal museum institution. Located in Odanak’s former Catholic school, on the banks of the Saint-François River, the museum offers an immersion in the cultural richness of the Abenaki First Nation. Visitors can explore permanent and temporary exhibits focusing on aboriginal themes, while taking part in cultural and educational activities.
Festivals calendar
Festival des traditions du monde
Dates: mid-August
Description: Through the interpretation of professional and amateur performances, culinary offerings, artistic creations and sports competitions, the region's various cultural communities work together to present and showcase, during the five days of the event, the beauty of their heritage and traditional values.