Travel back in time and take in the old-world flavour of Québec’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. The cross-Québec “Route Verte”, abandoned rail lines and forested pathways will lead you from stately Victorian Mansions and captivating covered bridges to the underground labyrinth of one of Canada’s oldest copper mines. Hunt for that one-of-a-kind memento in the shops and artists’ galleries you encounter along the way. Embrace the region’s storied past and culture in one of many scenic villages; enjoy your nights in cozy accommodations and remember to sample the finest in local cuisine. The romance of this landscape is sure to leave you with a lasting impression.
Our Classic Accommodations in the Eastern Townships are somewhat more modest than our Classic Accommodations in other regions; the Luxe Accommodation in North Hatley is at Manoir Hovey, a Relais & Chateaux property that is one of the finest in Canada.
Straight Talk
North Hatley, QC, Canada
Day 1+2
Magog, QC, Canada
Day 3+4
Orford, QC, Canada
Day 5+6
| Start any date between May 1 and Oct 31. |
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| Custom trips are also available and can start any date, call or email for details. |
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity Level16 km (10 mi) daily average
TerrainOn two of the days you will have the opportunity to walk in hilly terrain with moderate and more challenging hills, the walking on the other days is on mostly level ground
CostClassic Accommodation: CAD $2,050
Single Supplement: CAD $520
Luxe Accommodation: CAD $2,550
Single Supplement: CAD $650
*Prices subject to GST+QST (14.975% ) on all trips in Québec.
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/Québec border via Interstate 5.
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”.
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.
Hike Distance: 8 up to 19 km; elevation gain: 135 m
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 three 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, 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 1700’s around a saw- and flour-mill. Take the time to explore the shops and boutiques of Magog.
Hike Distance: 6 up to 24 km; elevation gain: up to 660 m
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.
Hike Distance: 8 km; elevation gain: 50 m
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. You have many choices for dinner a short stroll from the hotel and if inclined, take in a concert at Orford Musique, a beautiful concert hall that often hosts prominent musicians.
Hike Distance: 12.5 km; elevation gain: 135 m or 10 km; elevation gain: 725 m
Depart
Enjoy a final few moments at your beautiful accommodation in Eastman before departing for home or another adventure.
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!
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 600 m away.
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.
This Relais & Chateaux property is one of the finest in Eastern Canada. Superior rooms are unique and have lakeside views and the restaurant is superb. Located 3 km outside the town of North Hatley.
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 600 m away.
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.
Tour Reviews
“Our area manager Phillipe and his whole family (who assist him) were great… In fact this was a very people oriented trip and for that a pleasure. The hiking program was nicely balanced… We feel we saw and experienced quite a lot.”
“The inn keepers in North Hatley and Magog are fabulous; and the breakfasts, superb. The North Hatley B&B is especially wonderful with all its Scottish influence.”
“We found the area manager to be knowledgeable, friendly and extremely accommodating. As an example, he indulged our interests by stopping at a vineyard.”
“We loved the spa Eastman, even stayed and extra day. The area manager is wonderful, a real asset for Randonnee, He helped us with every phase of the tour, including customizing the last day to match my wife capacity. The central office staff was very helpful regarding our possible taking our dog along. An excellent job by all!”
“The service provided by the area manager was excellent. The quality of the accommodation was excellent as were the breakfasts provided. The hosts were very friendly and helpful.”
“Great info about the areas. All B&B’s were fine. The Randonnee Tours service was great, very accommodating and helpful. We will travel with you again – we like what you offer.”
“Very accommodating owners at the hotels, nice updated digs, spotlessly clean. The area manager was more than excellent. He is efficient, friendly, personable and most accommodating. I think he has some good ideas about routes, length and timing based on his experience with Randonnee clients.”
“I most enjoyed spending time outdoors in nature walking with a long time friend. The meals we had were excellent and the people were super friendly. The scenery was beautiful.”
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