Published on Sept 26, 2023
If there’s one activity that everyone loves to do is, of course, to head out for a summertime picnic. But why not also enjoy this pleasant outing once autumn has arrived? There’s really no reason why we should miss out on this moment! Here are a few venue suggestions where you can enjoy having a picnic, whether you’re in an active or a more contemplative mood.
By Marie-Claude Masse
Standing at 472 metres and featuring a summit platform offering a splendid view, the summit of Mont Bernard will not only delight your senses, it’s also a great place to enjoy a picnic, with several tables available for visitors. From the P7 parking area, simply follow the M50 trail—Coureur des bois (easy to intermediate) with an elevation gain of 297 metres, for a 2.5-kilometre hike all the way to the top.
P7 parking area, Bromont—montagne d’expériences, Bromont
Why not take on something a bit more challenging to enjoy your basket of goodies once you’ve reached the summit! The best way to do so is to take the Sentier des cimes in the Parc National du Mont-Mégantic, in the Franceville sector! Follow this 11.9-kilometre loop and you’ll discover a stream, waterfalls, a spectacular rocky ridge and a breathtaking view when you reach the top!
520, Chemin de Franceville, Scotstown
Mount Chapman is the highest point in the Stoke Mountains massif. To complete this beautiful 8.6-kilometre hike, you’ll need to take the Mount Chapman Loop trail, which runs alongside a beautiful stream. The entire walk takes about 4 hours. Many families enjoy this challenge, so don’t forget to add a few treats to your basket to reward your youngsters’ efforts!
Rang 14, 4 Kilometres from its junction with route 216, Stoke
A picnic in the mountains, atop Mont Bellevue, but with a view of downtown Sherbrooke? What a great idea! At the highest point, by the cross, is where you’ll get the best view! You have three options for getting there: via the Dunant St. entrance, a really easy option; via the Brébeuf St. entrance, a nice but fairly easy climb; or via the University entrance, a fairly challenging climb!
Dunan St., at the corner of Thibault St. — 1440 Brébeuf St. – 2500, Boul. de l’Université
The Centre de la Nature de Farnham is a must for cyclists and families alike. It’s located right next to the Route Verte, and both trails are easily accessible. A true semi-urban oasis, this park has everything you need to unwind: an abundance and diversity of flora and fauna, a peaceful river, plenty of picnic tables... Even dogs are welcome!
1400 Yamaska Est St., Farnham
This 27-hectare site is the ideal playground for nature enthusiasts, with a number of lookouts inviting you to observe the surrounding flora and wildlife. Did you know that the Parc des Deux Rivières is also part of the Circuit des sheds panoramiques? At the junction of the Rivière Saint-François and the Rivière Eaton, the East Angus Shed offers a magnificent bird’s-eye view overlooking the two waterways. Perfect for immersing yourself in the landscape while having a picnic!
Willard St., East Angus
What better place to enjoy a lakefront picnic than in the bucolic village of North Hatley? This major vacation destination has everything you need to create an enjoyable picnic! You’ll have plenty of options when it comes to putting together your lunch basket, thanks to the many small shops you’ll find here, and the aptly named Dreamland Park, at the tip of Lake Massawippi, will be the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a contemplative moment!
4013, Axe de la Massawippi, North Hatley
Did you know that most Brome-Missisquoi vineyards have picnic tables on their estate? Picnicking among the vines is the perfect way to enjoy the countryside! Find out more at one of the many vineyards established along La Route des vins. You’ll be able to choose from a range of options: some simply bring their own baskets, while others offer their own or work with local gastronomic partners.
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