Best Things to Do in October in the Eastern Townships

Published on Sept 24, 2025

Craving a taste of fall? October in the Eastern Townships is a feast for the senses—crisp air, fiery foliage, and markets overflowing with harvest flavours. From orchard-fresh apples to vineyard tastings, every stop offers something new to savour. And the best part? You’re less than two hours from Montreal or northern New England, yet it feels like a world away.

Fall for the Colours

Wondering where and when to catch autumn at its peak? Follow our interactive fall colour map to track the changes across the region in real time. If you’re eager to hike while the landscapes are glowing, these lesser-known hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints with true WOW moments. Don’t rush—book a cottage or a condo and wake up in the heart of nature.

Quick links for your trip:

Good to know before you head out:

Ride Into Autumn

Cooler air, quieter roads, and fiery landscapes make October ideal for cycling. Choose from 9 hand-picked itineraries for road rides, gravel, or scenic spins. Mountain bikers can explore one of 8 MTB centres, with trails for all levels. Feeling ambitious? The Gravel Bikepacking Challenge 500 (Oct 4, 2025) takes you deep into hidden corners of the region.

Liens rapides pour votre parcours à vélo :

Savour October’s Flavours

This is the month to indulge. At Dégustez Mégantic (Oct 4–5), 16 local producers welcome you with tastings along a scenic driving route. Raise a glass at Oktoberfest (Oct 4) with craft beers, grilled dishes, and live music. The following weekend, hop on the shuttle at Virée gourmande des Comptonales (Oct 11–12) for a flavour-packed tour of agrotourism stops. Finish at the Marché des Récoltes (Oct 13) for farm-fresh treats to bring home.

Quick links for your gourmet getaway:

Slow Down, Soak It In

Fans of slow travel will love October in the Townships. Explore the charm of our 12 Cœurs Villageois—picturesque towns rich in history and culture. Nature lovers can observe migrating birds from prime vantage points, or wander marshes, ponds, and bogs teeming with biodiversity. Prefer to recharge? Seek out peaceful venues designed for total wellbeing and let the crisp fall air restore you.

Quick links for your mindful getaway:

Follow the Road to Discovery

Prefer to let the car do the work? The Route des Sommets offers a three-day, 119 km itinerary winding through mountains, lakes, and panoramic viewpoints. For even more inspiration, explore our themed tourist routes—created specifically for outdoor escapes, art and heritage, or local food and wine.

Quick links for your journey:

Have a great time in the Townships – come back in November!

We hope your October getaway to the Eastern Townships is filled with colour, flavour, and memorable moments. Don’t forget to share your discoveries with us on social media—we love seeing the Townships through your eyes! And be sure to check back next month: November is a unique time of year to visit, with quieter roads, fewer crowds, and plenty of great deals and hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.

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