5 really cool places to experience the joys of winter

Our wonderful white winter is at our doors and when we say “winter,” we mean “loads of fun playing outside!” Here are five really cool destinations to add to your address book to make the most of this winter!

By Marie-Claude Masse

Mont Sutton

Mont Sutton is THE mountain you must visit if you like glade skiing since its glades are renowned as being the best in all of Canada! Whether you opt for skiing, snowboarding or telemark, you’ll discover a unique sports experience because of the area’s microclimate, which produces generous amounts of snow and powder conditions. You’ll also enjoy the festive ambiance that reigns over the entire area. New this year, the “Yooner”! This sort of “snow cart” caused quite a frenzy last year during spring break! It will be available for rentals throughout the entire season; Fun and easy to handle, the yooner will please kids of all ages!

After spending the day outside, why not treat yourself to the delicious beer selection at the Sutton Brouërie and try the gourmet options on their menu?

Parc du Mont-Bellevue

Alpine ski (perfect for beginners!), cross-country ski, fatbike, snowshoeing (even at night!)... This charming little mountain Bellevue is definitely full of ressources for all the winter's lovers! An all-inclusive winter's fun located within Sherbrooke's heart! We love it! You'll love it too!

Before starting your day "let's play outside!", stop at Café Aragon for good fuel like their savourous Benedictine eggs!

Jouvence

In winter, there are plenty of activities going on at the Jouvence vacation centre, in Orford: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, adventure trails, tubing, skating, broomball, outdoor spa and sauna . . . there’s something for the whole family. Furthermore, during the Holiday period, Jouvence will offer the popular Formule Club, which includes entertainment and activities for everybody. This year the theme will be “Lutin en Fête” and promises to have you experience a truly magical stay! To add some of this magic to your taste buds, on your way back, you could stop at Les Enfants Terribles, in Magog and select from their festive and delicious menu dishes that are sure to please everyone.

The Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook

This jewel of the MRC of Coaticook offers a multitude of activities to please kids of all ages and the most adventurous among us as well! Indeed, along with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and fatbike activities, you’ll also discover a very original activity: Yukigassen! But, what’s this? Well, it’s basically a snowball fight divided in three periods, each ending when a team gets hold of the other team’s flag. It’s a lot of fun! Adrenalin amateurs will satisfy their need by turning to one of the Gorge de Coaticook’s eight rock walls covered with ice. (beginner to expert levels)

To end the day, we strongly suggest taking a short detour through Compton and stop at La Station cheese factory to fill up with their delicious raw milk cheese selection. You’ll also find delicious products made by local artisans; Perfect to concoct a very special dinner!

Baie-des-Sables Outdoor Centre

In the town of Lac-Mégantic, the Base plein air Baie-des-Sables outdoor sports centre is where you’ll find all the action! You’ll discover an ample selection of sports activities: 13 km of snowshoeing trails, 30 km of classic and skate-style cross-country trails, tubing trails with a mechanical lift, plus downhill skiing and snowboarding on 8 trails for beginners and experts alike. Overall, this favourite family destination offers something for everyone!

Before starting out, a good idea would be to bring a lunch box to Mange ta main garde l’autre pour demain , in Lac-Mégantic, a creative catering service, also offering a gourmet products boutique that has been the talk of the town since last June!