Winter Getaway in the Eastern Townships of Quebec
I took my 3 boys on a solo road trip up to Canada and had the most wonderful time! You can watch a recap video here. It was a winter wonderland and the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. There is so much do see and do, I can’t wait to go back!
Why the Eastern Townships make the perfect winter getaway…
There are 4 National Parks, all the delicious pastries, more than 800 miles of hiking trails (275 trails available in the winter), and so many fun activities for the whole family! It has it ALL! If you’re coming from the States & don’t speak French, don’t worry it is super is to navigate!
The Eastern Townships are a short drive across the border and are more than worth it!
Where to Stay:
I am still dreaming of staying at Mi Clos Orford . It was so peaceful and relaxing. It felt like you were connected with nature with the beautiful views but have all the luxuries you could want like a clean comfortable bed, heated floors, nice bathroom, & a private spa on the deck. There is also a full kitchen which is so helpful when traveling with kids! One of my favorite places I’ve stayed, I want to go back just my hubby and I for a romantic getaway. It is also just a few minutes drive away from so many activities which made it so convenient.
Things to Do:
Hike at Mont Bellevue . We did a child-friendly 5.6 km loop tot the top where we had beautiful views! There is also skiing here, both downhill and cross country trails!
Visit the interpretation center and take a walk at Marais de la Rivière-aux-cerises along the marsh. Stroller friendly!
Explore the trails at the National Park of Mont Orford. This was a highlight of the trip, SO BEAUTIFUL! I want to come back and hike/ski into some of the cabins you can stay at. So much cross country skiing and snowshoeing here but would be amazing any time of year.
See the shops of downtown Magog.
Rock climb at DVert. I’ve been to many climbing gyms in my days and this one is great. They have lots of auto belays which is great if you’re new to climbing or traveling solo with kids like me because all my kids could climb at the same time so I didn’t have to listen to fighting over who’s turn its was. This is a great spot to warm up if the weather isn’t great.
Learn & gaze at the stars at the Mont Mégantic Astro Lab . This is a dark sky reserve and has so many cool offerings, educational programs and is Canada’s leading centre of astronomy and astrophysics. The short movie we watched about the dark sky and universe was mind blowing (it even held my 2yr olds attention)!
Go hiking at Parc National du Mont Mégantic. This park also offers so many opportunities for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. If you’re feeling adventurous head to a peak and enjoy the views!
There is SO MUCH to do in the Eastern Townships, it really has it all! I want to visit it every season. Other noteworthy things we didn’t get a chance to do this trip include things like a Cheesemakers Circuit, Granby Zoo, 4 major ski centers, some 30 wineries & microbreweries, nordic spas, 35 golf courses, mountain biking, festivals, and more!
