When to go : Eastern Townships is an all season destination. Winter offers downhill skiing at Mont Orford ice fishing on Lake Massawippi and snowshoeing cross country skiing and snowmobiling on trails throughout the region. Summer is busiest with golf tennis sailing kayaking windsurfing fishing hiking and biking. spring and autumn bring fewer crowds and colorful foliage. I tell people to come in spring fall when there' s less people around Gallup says. North Hatley gets really quiet but most things don't close in winter. How to get around : Driving gives you the most flexibility. From Montreal it's only about an hour's drive southeast via Autoroute 10 and 1-91 north from vermont becomes Highway 55 when you cross the border into the Eastern Townships.
Three designated road trips help visitors navigate the region's attractions. Quebec's only Wine Route takes you to local vineyards known for their ice wines and roses. The 260 mile Townships Trail leads through 31 picturesque towns by grand Victorian houses and round barns and over covered bridges. Focusing on the region's natural beauty the 100 mile Summit Trail leads to scenic viewpoints parks and hikes. Cycling and hiking are ideal in the summer. Sailing is popular on lakes Memphremagog and Massawippi.