Located some 45 minutes away from Montreal, to the South-East and at just a few hours driving distance from Quebec City. The Eastern Townships area shared the border of three states: Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. Its neighbouring tourist regions are "Montérégie" to the West, "Centre du Québec" to the North and "Chaudière-Appalaches" to the East. The area covers 13,100 square kilometers. The following are the sub-regions:
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- Sherbrooke
- Granby-Bromont
- Brome-Missisquoi
- Val Saint-François
- Memphrémagog
- Coaticook
- Asbestos
- Haut Saint-François
- Mégantic
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Downtown Sherbrooke |
"Estrie", a name full of meaning
The toponym "Estrie" was officialy adopted on August 14, 1981. Before that, and still today, that part of this province was called "Cantons-de-l'Est", a derivation of the English name "Eastern Townships" used by the first setters in the 16th century.
This first inhabitants have left us a rich and fascinating heritage. Covered bridges, the enigmatic twelve sided round barns and, especially, the architecture of american and victorian vernacular styles houses remind us of bygone days. Antique dealers also reveal the Estrian heritage in their own way.
Exceptionnal Natural Ressources
Mineralogy aficionados are spoiled by the richness of the Estrian subsoil. One particular region boasts quartz crystal mine, a unique in Canada, the granite House set up in an old abandoned quarry and an open pit asbestos mine, one of the largest in the world. The latter can be visited on reservation only. Detailed explanations of the particularities and uses of the minerals are available at the Museums of Mineralogy
Our very own pioneer
The snowmobile, that marvellous machine, was invented by the late Joseph-Armand Bombardier, who was a native of this region. The commercialization of the snowmobile's ancestor started in 1937. The vehicles produced in those years were quite different from to day's model and were called "snowcars". One can visit the Bombardier's facilities upon reservation only.
The Joseph-Armand Bombardier museum, also located in Valcourt features a trip down memory lane in the life and activities of the snowmobile inventor.
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A fertile land
Local wine producers are famous in this area. Several vineyards offer different activities such as guided tours and tasting of wine, cider and hydromel.
Come springtime, maple products will tickle your fancy and at that time of the year, groups re-discover their young hearts to phance through the maple-groves. |
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Endless activities
Upon your arrival in the region, a dozen permanent offices, plus the seasonal ones, are at your disposal to inform you on all the sites and various events that take place in Eastern Townships. A large lodging network is set up and offers you a range of accommodation from the quiet little refuge to a larger establishment offering several activities and packages. You are sure to find just the right place of your choice. For exemple: you can chose between a bed and breakfast, a condo, a cottage, an Inn, a Motel...
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Various equestrian centers allow you to discover the countryside and natural environment on 200 kilometers of posted trails
For those who prefer hiking , they can explore the 140 km of trails that link Kingsbury to Mont Sutton.
Mountain-biking and especially cycle-tourism are a must for those who admire breathtaking landscapes.
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Parachute jumping is possible in the Farnham region and various centers offer "Excursions/Adventures" packages. You will also have the opportunity to tame the "spitting lama" of Tintin's adventures fame but you'll most likely get acquainted with a most docile and likeable animal. Birdwatchers can indulge in their favourite pastime via several ornithology centers and associations. |
We must not forget the following water sports and activities:
- Bathing at the beach
- Sailing boards
- Sailing
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Kayaking Pedalo
- Moto-marine
- Scuba diving
- Rafting
- Water slides
- Aquatic Park
Three businesses offer cruises on the Magog river, Lake-Mégantic and Lake-Memphrémagog as well as a possible sailing excursion on the latter, during the summer months.
During the winter season, the activities are as follows:
Other activities and attractions:
Global Réservation: Lodging and accomodation, Eastern Townships region
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