Eastern Townships Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

The Eastern Townships (Cantons-de-l’Est) offer a unique slice of Canada where two cultures intertwine amidst a landscape of breathtaking beauty. Located just an hour east of Montreal, this region feels a world away with its rolling Appalachian hills, pristine lakes, and English-style architecture that nods to its Loyalist history. It is a place where you are just as likely to hear a farmer speaking English as you are to order a croissant in French, creating a cultural tapestry that is distinct within Quebec.

While the region is a year-round destination, it transforms dramatically with the seasons. From the verdant vineyards of summer to the snowy peaks of winter, the Townships offer a rhythm of life that focuses on the outdoors and the table. It is renowned as the garden of Quebec, producing high-quality cheeses, duck, maple syrup, and an increasingly respected selection of cold-climate wines.

A Blend of Heritage and Innovation

What makes the Eastern Townships special is the visible layer of history known as the Townships Trail (Chemin des Cantons). Unlike the seigneurial system along the St. Lawrence River, this land was divided into square townships by British Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution. You will see round barns, Victorian mansions, and opera houses sitting comfortably alongside modern Quebecois microbreweries and avant-garde art centers.

Culinary travel is the second pillar of the region’s identity. The area created the ‘Café de Village’ network, designating spots that serve as community hubs with local food. Whether you are following the Wine Route (La Route des Vins) through Brome-Missisquoi or the Summit Drive (Route des Sommets) for panoramic views, the journey is always punctuated by exceptional farm-to-table experiences.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac - A functioning Benedictine monastery famous for its architecture and Gregorian chants. The boutique sells monk-made cheeses and ciders. It is located about 20km from Magog; entry is free, though donations are welcome.

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook - Home to North America’s longest suspension footbridge. It offers hiking trails, camping, and the night-time attraction Foresta Lumina. Day access to trails costs approximately $9 CAD per adult.

Mont Orford National Park - The crown jewel for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, swimming, and skiing. Located just north of Magog, the daily access fee is roughly $9.55 CAD per adult.

Zoo de Granby - One of Canada’s largest zoos, featuring an adjacent water park. It is a major family draw in the summer. Tickets are approximately $50 CAD per adult during peak season.

Bleu Lavande - Located in Magog, this is a sensory experience featuring lavender fields and interpretive centers. Entry is approximately $15 CAD during bloom season.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to the Eastern Townships is best done by car. While there is a bus service (Limocar) from Montreal to Sherbrooke and Magog, exploring the smaller villages, vineyards, and trailheads requires a personal vehicle. Drive times from Montreal range from 45 minutes to Bromont to 1.5 hours to Magog. If you are visiting in winter, remember that winter tires are mandatory in Quebec from December 1st to March 15th, and this law applies to rental cars as well.

Pack layers regardless of the season. The region’s geography, hills and valleys, creates microclimates where the temperature can drop significantly in the evening. If you plan on visiting the popular sugar shacks in spring or the wine festivals in autumn, book your accommodations at least two months in advance, as the best inns fill up quickly.

Whether you are sipping ice cider on a patio in Dunham or carving fresh powder on the slopes of Sutton, the Eastern Townships offer a gentle, refined escape. It is a destination that invites you to slow down, savor the local bounty, and immerse yourself in the ‘art de vivre’ that defines this corner of Quebec.