Updated on Jul 14, 2023

Our cities and towns all have something unique to offer you. Whether it’s a place, a product, a landscape, an attraction or an event, you’ll always have at least five good reasons for visiting them! Here's Bedford.

By Carolyne Parent

During the 19th century, when people talked about a fast-flowing river, they were talking about a hydraulic force powerful enough to supply a mill, and soon an entire town! Stanbridge Falls, Bedford’s initial name, was no exception. It was in 1804 that entrepreneur Abram Lampman, son of the town’s first citizen, built a saw mill along the Pike River. It was the beginning of a tremendous industrial development period that would transform Bedford into an important commercial crossroad. Here opulent homes and three churches are true representations of its past wealth.

1

Pedal the Heritage Circuit

Oh! About forty kilometres of pure bliss welcomes you and starts out from the town’s Catholic church parking lot! This cycling loop will take you across the villages of Pidgeon Hill, Saint-Armand (Hello, M. Foglia!), Standbridge East and Mystic. In this last hamlet, the Walbridge Barn, Quebec’s oldest one, astonishes visitors with its unusual shape, but the route has plenty more surprises to offer as you travel through the heart of this idyllic countryside. Saddle up everyone!
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2

Stop by the Fromagerie Missiska

On the Ferme Missiska, it’s quite clear, cows have it made! Why? Because here, the three dozen Jerseys—the breed that offers the richest milk—ruminate only hay produced on the site of the farm, where organic fertilizers are the preferred choice. The result produces “the cream of all milks,” the basic ingredient for the two cheeses, a cheddar curds and the Jersey Royal, developed by the Fromagerie Missiska . One thing is for sure, these delightful products are the perfect companions for a getaway on Brome-Missisquoi’s wine route!
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3

Eat at the Café Rouge

Its original decor, evoking Paris’s Moulin Rouge, has been replaced with a more traditional rustic floor plan. However the café has kept its name! Why not? The ripe coffee beans they roast still have a red hue, as Kathy, the friendly owner, notes! The brand stands behind its colours, and on warm summer days, invites its guests to order an ice “rouccino” (their house cappuccino)! Unless they’re really hungry, the café also offers their delicious homemade dishes, that should satisfy any appetite (as take-outs, following the current measures).
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4

Be Greedy at Capeline et chocolat

Always comforting, chocolate is even more heartening during these times, right? So let’s make a stop at this artisan chocolate maker’s shop, whose confectionery has become a true local institution. Their specialty? Their famous “capeline”, a homemade marshmallow ball placed on a jam spread cookie, then dipped in chocolate. More please!
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5

Get to Bedford’s Agricultural Fair

If only for its longevity, this annual fair certainly deserves a medal! In fact, it dates back to 1824! From next August 10 to August 13, governed by The Missisquoi Agricultural Society, you’re invited to explore the farm world through animal contests, artisanal demonstrations, equestrian competitions and other fun contests, such as tractor pulling. A derby race, performances and rides also contribute to the festive family ambiance.
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