enjoying the good life in Quebec’s Eastern Townships
I’ve been to Quebec, Canada, numerous times, but only recently had the pleasure of visiting the region known as the Eastern Townships.
I’d heard how lovely the Eastern Townships region is, with its visitor-friendly mountains that become busy ski slopes in winter. But I hadn’t realized what a fabulous four-season destination the Eastern Townships are for gourmands. If you love luxury travel, fine wine, craft beers, haute cuisine, fresh cheeses, and terrific chocolate, you will enjoy exploring the culinary pleasures of Quebec’s Eastern Townships.
Every course of every meal is an artistic delight in the Eastern Townships of Quebec.
great places to stay in the eastern townships
As someone who loves creature comforts, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the amenities of two of the region’s finest hotel properties.
We adored the setting of l’Hôtel Château-Bromont, located at the base of Mount Bromont. See the top photo and pin it so that you can plan to visit. There’s a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, a fountain with comfortable seating in a forested area, and outdoor hot tubs and comfortable seating on the Terrace level where you can enjoy drinks or a light meal. There is also an indoor pool and courtyard in the main building and a full service spa in a separate building. We peeked in at the Amerispa, but they were closing early the night we were there, so we enjoyed night caps on the terrace. The end of a perfect day.
The junior suites at Chateau Bromont are perfect for friends staying together as there is an upper level with separate sleeping area. My friend Virginia is giving us her best diva impression in this shot.
I adored the beautiful gardens at the Chateau Bromont in the Eastern Townships of Quebec.
Clear skies eluded us during our stay at Hôtel Suites Lac-Brome, so after a walk down to Lake Brome we spent most of our time indoors, enjoying a fabulous four-course dinner followed by time in the spa.
The Hotel Suites Lac-Brome near the town of Knowlton, Quebec, is the perfect destination for foodies and families.
Also known as Auberge Lac Brome, the Hôtel Suites Lac-Brome near the village of Knowlton, is magical from the moment you arrive. We were not blessed with a sunny sky during our brief visit, but the warmth of the staff, haute cuisine, and inviting lakeside location made the journey to this four-star 38-room property so worthwhile.
Our very knowledgeable server at La Brise du Lac chose a different wine for each of our courses from the hotel’s extensive 225-label wine list.
Executive chef Patrick Plouffe of La Brise du Lac Restaurant at Hôtel Suites Lac-Brome treated us to an excellent four-course meal. I think my favourite course was the Beef Carpaccio appetizer paired with a wonderful Pinot Noir.
The Beef Carpaccio at La Brise du Lac restaurant was magnificent paired with a Pinot Noir red wine.
I hope this post has whetted your appetite for the many flavours of the Eastern Townships of Quebec. My next post will highlight some terrific chocolate diversions and other culinary offerings you might come across while strolling the streets of the scenic francophone villages of this region.
My sincere thanks to Destination Québec for making this trip possible.
Love Quebec! Your writing about the Eastern Townships is so inspiring!
Thanks so much, Judi. That is a very kind thing to say. 🙂
I am in love with those sprawling lawns and those flowers. Makes me feel so relaxed already. Love your food pics here.
You bet, Ami! the Eastern Townships of Quebec are a really great place to just chill if you like. But there is always something to do for those who are looking for it. 🙂
Well, apparently the Eastern Townships are for me. I need nothing more than craft beer, cheese, and chocolate 😀
Right on, Francesca! Definitely a destination for us foodies. I think you will enjoy the next post in which I will introduce you to more temptations!
The Eastern Townships region looks really beautiful. The two hotels too seem to have a unique charm of their own. The food looks presented so artistically, I would actually hate interfering with it!
I know what you mean Sandy. We thought the same thing when we were presented with such culinary artistry. But I assure you! You wouldn’t be able to resist the temptation for long. 🙂
Never been to that part of the world but always curious to know more!
For sure, Menorca. We are so privileged to live in this day and age, when we can learn all about places of the world and decide where next to go. Canada as a whole is a gem. Quebec is part of that, with the French flair thrown in! 🙂
Well this is a very cool post to read as I am in Montreal and that area is so cloise by. Love going there once in a while for a day or a weekend.
How lucky you are, Evelyne, so live in Montreal, and to be so close by the Eastern townships! So much to see and do there.
I’ve done a lot of exploring in Ontario (as my husband is from the northern parts) but have not spent much time in Quebec. You always hear about the big cities, but there are always treasure to find if you step off the beaten path. The Eastern Townships of Quebec certainly have a lot to offer, especially if you are a foodie. Yum!
So true, Alison. I hope to spend the rest of my life finding all those treasures off the beaten path! Thx for stopping by.
There are so many places we will have to visit when we venture East. This sure is one of them Thanks for bringing it to our attention,
You’re most welcome, Betty! I do hope you get to visit the Eastern Townships. It’s got that same slow pace of Osoyoos that we all love, but French Canadian style!
The location of the hotel is so exotic. No wonder the warmth of the staff makes up for the not-so-good weather you faced. The hotel sounded like a heaven for food lovers. I would love to check out the property if I am around Quebec in future!
Two very distinct properties featured in the post, Tania. One was near a lake and offered great cuisine and kayaking as a distraction. The other was in the mountains and had great water features unique to the resort. Both are excellent choices for any visit to the Eastern Townships.
I will totally travel for food, and it sounds like there is a lot of great culinary dishes to be had. Thanks for sharing. On my list!
Super, Lara! I’m glad I’ve put Quebec’s Eastern Townships on your radar. It is an excellent destination for us foodies. 🙂
We just loved this part of Quebec. It’s beautiful and there are so many great local foods to eat. Can’t wait to read your take on the chocolate in that area.
Stay tuned, Sue! That is coming up later today. 🙂
I’ve only visited Quebec once – and always meant to go back. The Eastern Townships look fascinating! And you obviously had a ball!
I did indeed, Fiona, and welcome to Chocolatour. Stay tuned for more about the Eastern Townships of Quebec.
Life indeed seems to be very good in Quebec. Wondering how it was not there in my bucket list yet. I will plan a trip here soon.
Right on, Neha. I know that with your quest for knowledge and love of travel, you will enjoy Quebec.
Quebec has been on my bucket list for a while but I hadn’t heard of the Eastern Townships. If all the food is as good as this I’ll have to add them to the list as well!
Absolutely, Karen! Quebec is probably Canada’s best destination for foodies.
You sure did whet my appetite for fine food and fabulous hotels! Looks like a beautiful place to visit!!
Right on, Marilyn! I’m sure you’d love a visit to the Eastern townships of Quebec. 🙂
I dearly love getting off the beaten tourist track. Thanks for sharing a new area that I knew nothing about!
You’re most welcome, Melinda! Seeking out new (to me) destinations off the beaten path is my speciality. 🙂
As if I needed yet another reason to get myself north! Okay, I did…this post will go over to my husband who could plan every trip around the food he wants to eat!
Hi Rose. Yes, Quebec is definitely a destination for foodies and gourmands. I don’t think you will find a more refined cuisine anywhere in North America.
I’ve never heard of the Eastern Townships in Quebec. Next time, and I’ll look forward to some fine dining.
That is probably because you have to make an effort to get to them, Carole. It was a 90-minute drive from where we stayed to Montreal airport. But well worth the trip!
I haven’t been to Quebec. Will have to add to my travel list. Your pictures are enticing and the food looks and sounds amazing.
Pretty sure you’d enjoy it, Judy. Quebec is quite a tantalizing destination.
I have a friend from Quebec, must ask him to describe it more!
Hi Dannielle. Quebec is a huge province and every part is different. Stay tuned for more on La Belle Province (that is Quebec’s nickname in French.) 🙂
You had me at “creature comforts” and the Chateau Bromont looks like a lovely place to relax and enjoy all of its offerings. Your photo of the gardens is beautiful and it sounds like your visit was filled with delicious food and drink in a wonderful setting!
It was indeed, Anita. But the Hotel Suites in Lac Brome was equally enticing. Each place was terrific. We just had better weather in Bromont.
Eastern Township Quebec seems so quaint and pretty. I don’t get much of that living in a city. And I start to just crave places that are cute with character. Looks like you enjoyed a lot of great food. I love the picture with the strawberries. That dish is so pretty that I would almost feel bad to eat it.
It is SO true that most of the dishes we ate while in Quebec looked too good to eat, Erica. But I can assure you that the chefs would be most disappointed if their creations were not eaten and enjoyed. I hope you will venture to the Eastern Townships one day. Truly an amazing destination.
This looks like such a lovely town! I’ve never been to Quebec but now I have a good list of things to do/stay/visit if I ever do make it out there. Thank you!
Hi Shannon. There are so many great places to visit in Quebec. And as you are a food lover, I know you would be pleased with the culinary offerings you will find throughout there province.
I haven’t been to the Eastern Townships, either, but Quebec is always such a great destination for people who love to eat! Looks like you made the most of your hotel stays, given the nasty weather, too.
Hi Jane and thx for stopping by. Yes, Quebec is definitely a destination for foodies — and chocolate! Stay tuned for more. 🙂
I’ve been to Quebec City and Montreal, but haven’t explored the province beyond that. These places in the eastern townships look lovely. But when you mention a spa, Doreen, i can’t help but think of your chocolate spa experience! Do these hotels have chocolate spa treatments?
Funny you should ask, Rachel. I was told that Amerispa at the Chateau Bromont did indeed previously have chocolate treatments. They ceased offering them as the oiliness of the cocoa butter no doubt clogged up their plumbing, and when you live in a rural area, plumbing is very often a concern. Darn!
If I ever make it to Quebec, I will now have Eastern Townships in the back of my mind as a place worth visiting. More and more, I find myself drawn to quaint villages rather than big cities.
Me, too, Jeri. I do enjoy visiting big cities for something in particular (like a festival, concert, or event.) But I love small villages where everyone says hello to one another ands their is a true sense of community and safety.
Eastern townships looks like a charming little place, loved your photos too! I hope I can have the chance to visit Quebec in the future. Thanks for sharing Doreen =)
Thanks and you’re welcome, Rosary!
A suite with a spiral staircase! Yes, please! I need to visit the eastern townships in Quebec!
Hi Lara. Yes, that staircase was a pretty nice touch, in addition to the gorgeous chandelier!
I went to Quebec with my children years and years ago when they were still young, but I barely remember it now. I would love to go back though, it’s a gorgeous location.
Hi Rhonda and thx for stopping by. What part of Quebec did you visit? It’s a very big province, and indeed. It is all gorgeous!
I am headed to Quebec City next May and I am so excited! I will check these out!
You will have to check how far the Eastern Townships are from Quebec City. It is a 90-minute drive from where we were to Montreal.
What a lovely place to stay. The view there seems to be breathtaking.
I saw in the one picture the sky slopes in the mountain, I bet this place is busy in winter too.
Hi William and thanks for stopping by. Actually, I was told that the population in the Eastern Townships is highest in the winter as most visitors do come for the tremendous skiing. But there are plenty of golf courses and other activities to enjoy in summer. We loved it.
A four-course meal followed by a trip to the spa sounds like my kinda getaway!
Indeed, Emily! Definitely a great way for a couple of gal pals to explore an enticing region. 🙂
What beautiful settings Doreen! The flower garden looks amazing. Canada looks so clean – definitely my kind of place. My holiday destination list is growing by the day.
Thanks, Phoenicia. Canada is indeed a wonderful country with so much diversity. In its geography, topography, culture and cuisine. I hope you get to visit soon. 🙂
Reading Susan Cooper’s comment:. Other than going to Expo ’67( you can guess how long ago that was) I ‘ve not been in Quebec, either. From what I’ve heard from other experienced travelers, it’s almost “other-worldly”. Between the Eastern Townships and Old Quebec City I gather there’s nothing quite like it. And Montreal is known for it’s culture, music and night- life. The lushness & colour of these wonderful buildings and grounds, not to mention Doreen and Virginia’s descriptions & photos of the hotels, food, drink and all , make it very enticing ! If I could only visit one, I think I’d choose this lovely area before the others.
Do you think my high-school French would get me anywhere?
Hi Linda and thanks for sharing your thoughts. Indeed, your high school French would help. I have 8 years of French in public school, plus a course in conversational French at St. Boniface College. It helps get me by, but most Quebecers do speak and understand English–though they lack confidence in speaking English. With effort from both parties, the message usually gets across just fine.
Ok, now I need to consider visiting some of these amazing places in Quebec Canada if not for the food alone. 🙂
Susan, you would LOVE Quebec! I know how much you appreciate fine wine, great food and chocolate, beautiful scenery and vibrant culture. Quebec has it all! Just brush up on your French a bit before you go. 🙂
I have not visited the Eastern Townships yet, but think it would be a great area to travel to.
You’d love it, Donna!
It looks beautiful. I will be in Quebec in March for a conference. I will be sure to check it out. Thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures.
Hi Carol and thanks for your comment.
Where is your conference? If it is in Montreal, you will have no trouble getting to the Eastern Townships if you can spare a couple of extra days, as it’s just 90 minutes from Bromont to Montreal.
I’d love to return to the Eastern Townships! I remember their artisanal cheese very well! Looking forward to hearing about their chocolate scene
Thanks, Michele. I will definitely get to our taste-tempting exploration of the Eastern Townships in my next post. Stay tuned!
Love hearing about your trips, Doreen! I enjoy the arm chair travelling with you!
Thank you, Flora! It’s great having you (virtually) along for the journeys. I appreciate the feedback. 🙂
Good to know. I will have to check that out before we hit the road. Thanks Doreen.
You know me! I aim to please 🙂
I was indeed surprised when we rode in the elevator with a pooch and his owner who confirmed the Chateau is pet friendly. Enjoy your trip!
It is, indeed, a beautiful area. In the fall my husband and I are planning a road trip through the area on our way to visit relatives in western Ontario and I’m looking forward to the exploration. We’re travelling with Harley, though, our Standard Poodle so I doubt we’ll be staying in 4* hotels. We’ll need to find dog-friendly accommodations!
Ceci, you will surprised to learn that the Chateau Bromont is a dog friendly establishment. I am not sure if Hotel Suites Lac Brome is as well, but I would not be surprised as they have lots of outdoor activities including kayaking.
Have always heard positive things about Quebec and your pictures and writing confirm my impression. The closest to Quebec I ever came was talking to your High Commissioner in London about doing a report about the area in The Observer. But we never went ahead with it. Honestly can’t remember why.
Catarina, Quebec is an amazing destination. It is the closest thing to being in France you can imagine. French culture overpowers Canadian culture in the province in many ways.
It was an eye-opening pleasure to explore the region with you Doreen. I’d experienced the natural beauty of the Eastern Townships before, but it was gratifying to see how the local food and drink scene has exploded with an emphasis on local ingredients. I can see it becoming a popular summer destination for Americans (just 10 km from the border), though they’d have to overcome their fear of French and appreciate that almost everyone in Quebec speaks English when necessary.
Thanks so much for your comment, Virginia, and for accompanying me on this amazing journey. Your presence made it so much more special.
I agree. The omnipresence of French everywhere is something that every visitor to the region must be aware of. I should have made that more clear in my post. Cheers!