Quebec’s Eastern Townships – A Wine and Food Lovers’ Paradise
A short one hour drive from Montreal, Québec’s eastern townships boast some of Canada’s most picturesque landscapes. Rolling hills and sparkling lakes combine with historic villages and 19th century architecture to make for a postcard worthy picture at every turn. A fantastic getaway destination, especially if you’re a nature lover with an affinity for great wine and food.
Wine Route
The eastern townships’ wine route is a 132 km circuit, crossing seven villages and some of the area’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Each of the 16 wineries and vineyards are unique and offer an array of local wines, including some world-renowned ice wines. Highlights include Vignoble Chapelle Ste-Agnès with its Romanesque stone chapel and medieval cellars and Vignoble de L’Orpailleur, where visitors can be treated to packages that include guided visits, wine tastings and demonstrations.
Restaurants
If you’re looking to indulge in fresh, seasonal cuisine, the wine route is dotted with bistro-style restaurants and a selection of Auberges (Inns). Most feature classic French cuisine with a regional influence and all offer local wines on their menus.
Where to stay
Whether you prefer to lay your head on your sleeping bag or on 600 count sheets, you will not be disappointed with the range of choices offered. Almost all the towns or villages on the wine route will feature at least one accommodation option and most will have a nearby campground. The larger centers of Bromont, Sutton and Lac Brome offer the most choice, with an abundance of intimate and charming B & B’s.
Accommodations on the Wine Route
Off the beaten path
For something a little different, we suggest a visit to the region’s lavender farm, Blue Lavende. Open to the public from mid-May until mid-October, the estate features several visitor packages, including the “Wine & Lavender” experience.
For more information on the region, visit the Tourism Eastern Townships Official Website