Take your pick: adrenaline packed or slow and contemplative?
Published on Aug 24, 2020
Whether it’s to go hiking, pedalling, skiing or eating, I never tire of rediscovering the town of Sutton and its surprising surroundings! Although I was quite exhausted after my previous weeks’ hikes, this—too short—outing at Huttopia Sutton really refreshed my brain with new-found energy! A fine escape that allowed me, once again, to experience a unique ambiance and lodging concept.
By Ariane Arpin-Delorme
I’m not talking here about the ready-to-camp Huttopia managed by the SÉPAQ, but rather another amazing concept. According to one of the managers of Huttopia Sutton, Nicolas Cavelier, glamping is definitely a popular choice these days. And visitors seem to be looking more often for almost all-inclusive formulas like what they brilliantly offer here. An idea developed in France in 1999, the founders wanted to try it here in Sutton, in 2014, then in the United States in 2017.
There are about 125 lodging offers. They include comfortable log cottages and spacious prospector tents (canvas-covered wood frames), large rustic campsites or with electricity; All this in a very intimate setting, in the middle of a 65-hectare forest of maples and other mixed essences. In fact, lately new tiny houses (stone and wood) have also been added!
Unlike the three-season prospector tents, the cottage in which I stayed is also winter-ready. Made almost entirely with wood, we feel quite comfortable here: the comfort of two hotel rooms and a charming bathroom, including kitchen ware, a BBQ grill and space for a campfire. I was really able to unwind here, as I was sheltered from the rain on the big porch. Pure magic! The pictures can prove it!
I would refresh myself in basins naturally set in the brook; I took this opportunity to relax with a yoga class Thursday morning; and I, of course, headed out on the trail that leads to Lake Mohawk (Parc d'environnement naturel de Sutton), the only one accessible directly from the Huttopia site. My head is filled with memories! I didn’t have enough time for a swim in their heated pool, for which you must reserve a time slot, to comply with the present sanitary measures. But it really seemed inviting!
Your little ones, and those not so small, can enjoy stimulating nature challenge trails, magic shows and storytelling hours as well as smore evenings around the fire.
Perfect to perhaps offer a quiet break for parents!
*Mountain bike trails will also be available soon, plus the return of live music performances. (To be confirmed according to the present regulations.)
The vast Huttopia Sutton complex seems to be a popular choice for families, but it’s also a peaceful haven for anyone who comes here. I went with some friends, and it was simply perfect. This year, as many Quebec citizens as European expats—already familiar with the concept—are taking advantage of this venue, according to what the manager has told me. What has changed because of this special context?
A strict protocol—in partnership with their team in France—a has been implemented in order to comply with the new government regulations. (Inside the main living quarters: disinfectant gel, wearing a mask, plexiglass for the different counter areas and special maintenance procedures for lodging accommodations, reserved time slots for using the heated pool, etc.) I must say, we hardly noticed the restrictions—which don’t disrupt our stay—this being such a wide open, natural environment. Which is saying a lot because Huttopia Sutton is presently experiencing a record season since it first opened, 6 years ago! Bravo!
A charming bistro has established itself inside the main building, they’ve sweetly dubbed as the “Centre de vie,” and where they’ve annexed a terrace. A simple, fresh cuisine is offered here. I myself have stopped by a few times to order lattes and to try their famous pizza, which has nothing to envy of the town restaurants.
Nature, sports and outdoor activities
The Great Outdoors in the Eastern Townships
Accommodations
Perfect Cabins for a Nature Getaway
