A scenic drive a couple of hours east of Montreal will land you square in the heart of the Eastern Townships. Given its proximity to the U.S. border, there is a distinctive New England- esque quality in the terrain and in the scenery, but a visit to one of the many points of interest will reveal the true Quebec flavor- in the food, language and style.
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7. Lake Memphremagog
This scenic lake is set against the mountains of Vermont and of the Eastern Townships. While Lake Memphremagog spans all the way down to Vermont, the bulk of the water is located in Quebec. The lake is good for swimming, with several beaches lining its shore. It’s also popular with boaters, and has a number of day cruise ships that feature lunch, brunch or dinner during their sail.
6. Hovey Manor
Nestled on the shores of Lake Massawippi, this four-season resort offers high-end service, luxe boutique accommodations and award-winning cuisine. Their four-diamond restaurant, Le Hatley, features local ingredients and the very best in creative Quebec cuisine. Rooms feature stone fireplaces (perfect in the winter) and private, lushly landscaped patios (perfect in the summer). There is a full service spa on site as well.
5. North Hatley
This quaint village at the northern tip of Lake Massawippi is very popular with antique shoppers, day trippers and travelers seeking a quiet, character get away. The village is populated with quaint inns and B&Bs. It’s central location makes for an excellent home base for those exploring the Eastern Townships. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking in the area mountains in spring, summer and fall, and skiing in the winter.
4. Pilsen Pub
Located in North Hatley proper, the Pilsen Pub has floors of flavor and history. Literally on the bank of Lake Massawippi (you can dock your boat next to the waterfront patio), this pub combines gourmet experience with down-to-earth pub grub with a twist. They serve a wide variety of craft beers (many of which are local to the Eastern Townships). Upstairs is a more formal dining room, while downstairs is the pub, with roaring fireplaces in the winter and a selection of board games to play while you sip your pint.
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3. Granby Zoo
The Granby Zoo is one of Quebec’s most popular tourist attractions and has over 1,000 animals that are grouped into 225 species. They have animals from all over the world, and have recreated habitats from South America, Africa, Oceania and Asia. The Zoo is open year round, with some modifications in the winter. Adjacent to the Zoo is a small amusement park and a water park with a wave pool, lazy river and extensive splash park.
2. Ski Bromont
This four-season resort is one of the four major ski hills in the Eastern Townships, which include Owl’s Head, Mont. Sutton and Mont Orford. This resort is family friendly, with gentle slopes and a selection of more challenging ones for experienced skiers. In the spring, summer and fall, this mountain is a great site for mountain biking. Bikers can take the chairlift up and bike their way down. For the adventurous, there are two luge runs and in the summer the water park opens with wave pools and 13 slides of varying types.
1. ASTROlab
Located in Mont Megantic National Park, the ASTROlab is an astronomy activity center. Guided tours in the observatory provide insight on astronomy and the history of the area. The tours (and of course what you’ll see) are different depending on if you visit at day or at night. There are also 50 km of trails surrounding the ASTROlab in the park, so it’s a great hiking spot as well. Want to take a peek at the stars through some of the most state-of-the-art equipment? Attend one of their Astronomy Festivals for an unforgettable experience.
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