Travel back in time and take in the old-world flavour of Quebec’s Eastern Townships. In the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, uncover the delights of charming French villages, lush green valleys, enchanted woods, and idyllic farmland. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, discover a land of enchanted forests, babbling brooks and peaceful lakes. Pedal along undiscovered country roads and specially designed bike paths through covered bridges, past serene monasteries, and spectacular round barns. Listen for the toll of local church bells. The perfect souvenir awaits your discovery among the many galleries, studios and antique shops that populate the many picturesque villages you’ll encounter. Each night settle into your cozy accommodation and be treated to first-class cuisine. You’ll never forget your visit to this breathtaking corner of Canada.

Only Great Explorations:

  • Small groups, extraordinary guides, and authentic experiences
  • Order off the menu at restaurants you won’t find in guidebooks
  • Distinctive, charming hotels too small for larger groups
  • We design and operate our own trips so there are only good surprises

Location

North Hatley

North Hatley, QC, Canada

Day 1+2

Magog

Magog, QC, Canada

Day 3+4

Orford

Orford, QC, Canada

Day 5+6

What’s Included in the Cost of Your Trip?

INCLUDED IN REGULAR TRIP

Services of one or more experienced Great Explorations guides
Support vehicle
5 nights lodging
All breakfasts, 2 lunches, and all dinners but 1
Entrance fees for selected historical sites and museums
Detailed map and route instructions
All baggage transportation
All transportation from initial meeting point to final drop-off (see arrive/depart cities)

Particulars

EVENT DATES

2023

Jun 22-27
Aug 24-29
Aug 31-Sep 5
Sep 7-12

2024

Jun 20-25
Aug 22-27
Aug 29-Sep 3
Sep 5-10

Trip can start at any date. Self-guided and custom trips also available. Call or email for details.

TRIP SIZE

4-12 participants

TOTAL DAYS

6 days / 5 nights

ARRIVE / DEPART

North Hatley / Orford

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderate. 16 km (10 miles) daily average.

TERRAIN

Mostly level ground with opportunities for moderate and challenging hills.

COST

Land Cost:
CAD $2,550*
Includes 5B/2L/4D

Single Supplement:
CAD $640*

*Prices before tax. Province of Quebec applies 14.975% GST+QST.

Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. Due to cancellations and waiting lists, trip availability fluctuates daily. If you have any questions or would like to confirm space on this trip before making your reservation, please contact us at info@great-explorations.com or by telephone at 604.730.1247.

Getting there

North Hatley (about 120 km east from Montreal): It is possible to reach Montreal by air from all major Canadian cities and most major American cities. A transfer from Montréal to the tour start can be arranged. If travelling by car from the United States, North Hatley is only a 1-hour drive north of the Vermont / Canada border via Interstate 5.


1

Day 1

North Hatley

Arrive in North Hatley. If you arrive early enough, take some time to explore the town and take in the verdant beauty that made this area immediately attractive as a summer get-away for the wealthy. Wander down streets lined with stately Victorian mansions once owned by well-to-do southerners who preferred the Townships as a summer retreat following the American Civil War. It is said that many drew the blinds of their railway cars as they passed through New England, which they commonly referred to as “Yankeeland”.

2

Day 2

North Hatley

Begin with a transfer out to the quiet university town of Lennoxville. Take a moment to delve into the history of the region or appreciate the work of a local artist in this culturally rich village. Your return route is an easy stroll to North Hatley along meandering river banks, through shady woods and down a forgotten rail trail. Savour the romance of the postcard-picturesque covered bridges you pass on your journey. Stop and head underground to explore Capelton Mine, one of the oldest copper mines in Canada.

Hiking Distance: 18 km, elevation gain 30 m.*

3

Day 3

Magog

Today is quite literally a walk in the Parc (du Mont Orford, that is!). Choose the adventure that beckons you and we will look after the details. There are four alternatives, ranging from a short loop trail past lakes and lookouts to a vigorous trek over roots and rocks to a dazzling mountaintop vista. Whether you decide on the Etang, Mont Chauve, Mont Alfred-DesRochers or Pic de L’Ours walk, you will come away with a mind clear of troubles and a day full of memories. At the end of your day you will be taken to the lively town of Magog to discover one of its many wonderful restaurants. This lively town sprang up in the late 1700s around a saw- and flour-mill. Take the time to explore the shops and boutiques of Magog.

Hiking Distance: 6 up to 15 km, elevation gain 75 up to 660 m.*

4

Day 4

Magog

Begin your day with a trip to the beautiful and contemplative Saint-Benoît-du-Lac Abbey on the west shore of Lake Memphrémagog. Be sure to pick up a sample of the monks delightful cheeses and pies as well as a sampling of their potent apple ciders, before returning to Magog. You will then have the opportunity to explore the marsh trail along the Rivière-aux Cerises and along the north shore of Lake Memprémagog. Keep an eye out for the legendary lake creature – Memphré, that is said to inhabit the lake.

Hiking Distance: 8 km, elevation gain 50 m.*

5

Day 5

Mount Orford

Explore Mt Orford Park including a lovely circuit of Étang aux Cerises, a pretty lake that boasts nice views of Mt Orford, or a more challenging ascent of Mount Orford itself with outstanding views from its summit. e will dine at a favourite restaurant a short stroll from the hotel.

Hiking Distance: 12.5 km, elevation gain 135 m or 10 km, gain 725 m.*

6

Day 6

Departure Day

Enjoy a final few moments in Orford before departing for home or another adventure.

*Hiking distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.

Auberge La Chocolatière, North Hatley

Nestled on the shores of Massawipi Lake in the centre of North Hatley, this chocolate-themed inn offers a lake view. It features a restaurant with fireplace and an on-site boutique. Enjoy a breakfast of chocolate crepes or waffles!


Hotel Boutique Verso, Magog

With an outstanding view of Lake Memphremagog, this property was re-designed in 2021 into a boutique hotel with contemporary decor and friendly, attentive service. Downtown Magog is 600m away.


Estrimont Suites & Spa, Orford

Located in the magnificent Magog-Orford region, the Estrimont Suites & Spa hotel invites you to escape and enjoy the Scandinavian baths. Unwind in the relaxing pools, hot tubs, Finnish sauna and yurt; or pamper yourself with a massage.