A picturesque holiday spot and cradle of grape growing in Québec, the Eastern Townships run along the American border. The region, proud of its beautiful villages with their opulent Victorian homes, is brimming with theatres, art galleries and antique shops.
The Wine Route (Route des Vins), agritourism circuits, excursions by train or boat, fine dining, cozy B&Bs and charming inns make the region irresistible for gourmet getaways. With its vistas of mountains, vast lakes and green golf courses, the Eastern Townships region offers unique scenery for memorable vacations!
Well-being and country pleasures
To truly appreciate the Eastern Townships, hop on your bike and head out along the regional network of bike paths, which stretches over 500 km (300 mi.), 200 km (125 mi.) of which are part of the Route Verte’s Montréal-Québec City route. Hikers also have plenty to choose from. One of the longest and the most spectacular trails is the Sentiers de l'Estrie, which offers 150 km (90 mi.) of views as far as the eye can see. Some 15 Relais santé spas offer health and relaxation getaways in restful surroundings. The Abbaye Saint-Benoît-du-Lac, with its cheese- and cider-making monks, marvellously embodies the serenity that comes from living in harmony with nature and the happy marriage of water and mountain.
Don’t miss:
· The Parc national du Mont Mégantic and Parc national du Mont Orford attract nature lovers with their majestic peaks and variety of outdoor activities and outfitters.
· The Parc national de la Yamaska lets families camp and swim in a forest environment. For water sports fans, Lac Saint-François (in the Parc national de Frontenac), Lake Memphremagog, Lac Massawippi and Lac Mégantic all have well-earned reputations.
· Other regional parks have surprises in store, such as the Parc de la Gorge-de-Coaticook, known for its 169 m (550 ft.) suspension bridge, one of the longest in the world.
· In winter, skiers can choose between four major ski hills: Orford, Sutton, Bromont and Owl’s Head.
· A snowmobiling mecca, the region is home to the J. Armand Bombardier Museum, in Valcourt, where the very popular Grand Prix is held every winter.
· The well-known Zoo de Granby, which welcomed no fewer than 600,000 visitors in 2011, is also well worth the trip.
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