Your Eastern Townships Day Trip at a Glance
For those who just need the highlights, here’s a quick overview of what to expect on your adventure. This table gives you all the essential details to start planning your perfect escape from the city.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Montreal | ~110-130 km (68-80 miles) one way, depending on the destination village |
| Driving Time | 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes one way |
| Total Day Trip Duration | 8-12 hours (including travel time) |
| Estimated Cost | $75 – $200+ per person (see budget breakdown below) |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Fall (Sept-Oct): Peak fall foliage, harvest season. Summer (June-Aug): Warm weather, lake activities, all attractions open. |
| Why Go? | Picturesque villages, scenic drives, vineyards, local artisans, and incredible hiking. |
How to Get to the Eastern Townships from Montreal
Let’s be clear: a car is your golden ticket for a day trip to the Eastern Townships from Montreal. The magic of this region lies in the freedom to hop between charming villages, follow a winding country road, and stop at a farm stand on a whim. While other options exist, they don’t offer the flexibility needed to truly capture the essence of the Cantons-de-l’Est.
By Car (Highly Recommended)
The journey is part of the adventure! The primary route is a straight shot down Autoroute 10 (A-10 E). It’s an easy and scenic drive that quickly transports you from urban life to rolling countryside. The real fun begins when you exit the highway and start exploring the historic “Chemin des Cantons” (Townships Trail), a network of roads connecting Loyalist-era villages. Parking is generally free and plentiful in towns and at most attractions, though popular spots in places like North Hatley can fill up quickly on a sunny autumn weekend.
By Bus or Guided Tour
While services like Limocar can get you to major centers like Magog, they aren’t practical for the kind of village-hopping that makes this day trip special. If you don’t have a car or prefer not to drive, a guided tour is an excellent alternative. They handle the logistics, often include a visit to a winery, and allow you to simply enjoy the views.
| Transportation | Time (One Way) | Cost (Round Trip) | Flexibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car | ~1.5 hours | ~$25-40 (Gas) | High – Explore at your own pace. | Highly Recommended. Essential for visiting multiple sites. |
| Bus (Limocar) | 1.5 – 2 hours | ~$80-100 | Low – Limited to major towns. | Not ideal for a multi-village day trip. |
| Guided Tour | Varies | ~$100-150+ | Low – Follows a set itinerary. | A great option if you don’t want to drive. |
Top 5 Can’t-Miss Attractions in the Eastern Townships
With so much to see, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. We’ve narrowed it down to five essential stops that offer a perfect taste of the region. This is the ideal checklist for answering the question, “What to do in the Eastern Townships for a day?”
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Stroll Through North Hatley & Lac Massawippi
Often called one of Quebec’s most beautiful villages, North Hatley is pure storybook charm. Lined with stunning Victorian homes, art galleries, and quaint boutiques, the town hugs the shore of the magnificent Lac Massawippi. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely walk and some incredible photos. Don’t miss a glimpse of the famous Manoir Hovey, a world-class Relais & Châteaux property, even if just from the outside. (Visit Duration: 1-1.5 hours)
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Savor Local Flavors at Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac
This is a stop that surprises and delights. A still-active Benedictine monastery, the Abbaye boasts stunning modern architecture designed by the renowned Dom Bellot. The true experience is visiting their shop, which is famous for its award-winning cheeses (especially the Bleu Bénédictin) and sparkling apple cider, all made by the monks. If you time it right, you can even hear the hauntingly beautiful Gregorian chants in the church. (Visit Duration: 45-60 minutes)
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Drive a Section of the Route des Vins (Wine Route)
No trip here is complete without sampling the local terroir! The Brome-Missisquoi Route des Vins is Quebec’s premier wine region. For a day trip, focus on visiting one or two vineyards near Dunham or Frelighsburg. Renowned spots like Vignoble de l’Orpailleur or Domaine du Ridge offer fantastic tours and tastings. Remember to check their seasonal hours online before you go. Safety Tip: Please ensure the driver drinks responsibly or sticks to non-alcoholic options. (Visit Duration: 1-2 hours per winery)
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Hike or Take the Gondola at Mont-Orford National Park
For a dose of nature and breathtaking views, Mont-Orford is the answer. This SÉPAQ park offers trails for all fitness levels, from easy lakeside loops to challenging summit climbs. In the summer and fall, you have the option to take the ski gondola to the top for a spectacular 360-degree panorama of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The view during peak fall foliage in Quebec is simply unforgettable. A daily access fee (~$9.55 CAD) is required. (Visit Duration: 1.5-3 hours)
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Discover the Charm of Knowlton (Lac-Brome)
If you’re looking for authentic Loyalist heritage, Knowlton is a must-see. This delightful village is filled with antique shops, cozy cafes, and is home to the famous Brome Lake Ducks. It has a more relaxed, local feel than some of the busier towns, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful lunch or a walk along the lake. It’s a photographer’s dream with its picturesque storefronts and classic architecture. (Visit Duration: 1-2 hours)
Sample Day Trip Itinerary (Summer/Fall 2025)
Feeling inspired? Here is a sample schedule to help you visualize your day. This itinerary balances sightseeing, nature, and culinary delights, making for a truly memorable Quebec road trip.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Depart from Montreal | Grab a coffee and hit Autoroute 10 before the traffic builds. |
| 9:30 AM | Arrive at Mont-Orford National Park | Choose a short hike (e.g., Étang-Fer-de-Lance trail, 1-hour loop). |
| 11:30 AM | Drive to Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac | A scenic 20-minute drive. Sample and buy cheese for a later picnic. |
| 12:45 PM | Lunch in Knowlton or Magog | Grab a bite at a local bistro or have a picnic with your abbey cheese. |
| 2:30 PM | Explore North Hatley | Walk the main street, browse the boutiques, and admire Lac Massawippi. |
| 4:00 PM | Wine Tasting on the Route des Vins | Visit one vineyard (e.g., Vignoble Le Cep d’Argent) for a tasting. |
| 5:30 PM | Begin Drive Back to Montreal | Enjoy the golden hour light as you head back to the city. |
| 7:00 PM | Arrive in Montreal | Tired but happy! |
Where to Eat in the Eastern Townships
From rustic bakeries to elegant lakeside dining, the Townships are a foodie paradise. Here are a few recommendations for every budget.
Budget-Friendly ($)
- Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Dora (Eastman): The perfect stop for grabbing delicious sandwiches, fresh pastries, and coffee to fuel your adventure.
- La Rumeur Affamée (Sutton): A legendary general store with an incredible bakery. Stock up on local cheeses, charcuterie, and bread for an epic picnic.
Mid-Range ($$)
- Microbrasserie La Memphré (Magog): Enjoy fantastic pub food and a great selection of local craft beer, ideally on their terrace overlooking Lac Memphrémagog.
- Bistro West Brome (West Brome): A charming and highly-rated farm-to-table bistro. They are particularly known for their delicious local duck dishes.
A Special Treat ($$$)
- Manoir Hovey (North Hatley): For a truly unforgettable fine-dining experience. This is special occasion territory, and reservations are absolutely essential.
- Ripplecove (Ayer’s Cliff): Another iconic hotel offering a luxurious lakeside dining experience with impeccable service and a refined menu.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for a Perfect Day
A little preparation goes a long way! Here are some insider tips to make your day trip near Montreal as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
- Go on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, visit on a weekday, especially during the peak fall season, to avoid the biggest crowds and traffic.
- Learn a Little French: While English is widely understood in tourist areas, a friendly “Bonjour” and “Merci” are always appreciated and go a long way.
- Pack a Cooler Bag: You won’t be able to resist the local delicacies. A cooler is essential for bringing home cheese, cider, wine, and other treats.
- Dress in Layers: The weather in the countryside can change quickly. A sweater or light jacket is a good idea, even on a warm summer day.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty in the more rural areas between villages. Having your route saved offline on Google Maps is a lifesaver.
- Check Opening Hours: Many wineries, boutiques, and attractions have seasonal hours. Always check their website or call ahead before you go.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A reusable water bottle
- Camera and/or smartphone for photos
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (summer)
- An extra layer (sweater or light jacket)
- Cash for small farm stands or markets
- A daypack to carry your essentials
Eastern Townships Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much to set aside? This region can be enjoyed on various budgets. Here’s a sample cost breakdown for one person to help you plan.
| Expense Category | Budget Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas) | $25 | $30 | Based on average fuel consumption and prices in 2025. |
| Food & Drink | $25 (Picnic/Bakery) | $60 (Bistro Lunch) | Excludes alcohol and souvenir food items. |
| Activities | $10 (Park Fee) | $35 (Park Fee + Wine Tasting) | Many attractions (like villages) are free to explore. |
| Souvenirs | $15 | $50 | For that delicious cheese, wine, or cider to take home. |
| TOTAL (Per Person) | ~$75 | ~$175 | This is an estimate and can vary widely based on your choices. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where to go for a day trip from Montreal?
The Eastern Townships are a top choice for their unique blend of scenic beauty, charming villages, and culinary experiences. Other popular options include Mont-Tremblant for resort activities or the Laurentians for more lakeside relaxation.
Is it possible to do a day trip from Montreal to Québec City?
While technically possible, it’s a very long day. The drive is about 3 hours each way, which leaves you with limited time for exploring the city itself. A day trip to the Eastern Townships is much more relaxed, with significantly less time spent in the car and more time enjoying the destinations.
Can you do a day trip to Mont Tremblant from Montreal?
Absolutely! A day trip to Mont Tremblant is fantastic for hiking, enjoying the pedestrian village, or skiing in the winter. The key difference is that Tremblant is a single resort destination, while the Eastern Townships offer the rich experience of exploring multiple, distinct historic villages and a wider, rolling countryside.
Are the Eastern Townships in Ontario or Quebec?
This is a common point of confusion! The Eastern Townships (Cantons-de-l’Est in French) are located entirely within the province of Quebec, southeast of Montreal. The historical name refers to their geographic location east of Montreal.
TL;DR: Your Perfect Day Trip in a Nutshell
In a hurry? Here’s the express version of the ultimate day trip to the Eastern Townships from Montreal:
- How to Go: Rent a car. It’s non-negotiable for flexibility.
- Morning: Drive to Mont-Orford for a short, scenic hike.
- Mid-day: Visit the Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac to buy incredible cheese.
- Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch or picnic in charming Knowlton.
- Afternoon: Stroll through the beautiful lakeside village of North Hatley.
- Late Afternoon: Cap off the day with a wine tasting at a vineyard on the Route des Vins.
- Don’t Forget: A cooler bag to bring home all your delicious finds!
