Take your pick: adrenaline packed or slow and contemplative?
Published on Oct 27, 2025
Think you can’t fit a delicious mix of gourmet discoveries and outdoor adventures into less than 48 hours in Quebec’s Eastern Townships? Let me prove you wrong.
Since the region is quite large — stretching across nine territories — my advice is simple: pick one area and make the most of it. That way, you can savor your escape without spending too much time on the road.
Here’s my idea of the perfect 48-hour gourmet weekend in Brome-Missisquoi — with a small but worthwhile detour to Eastman.
Bedford is a charming little town worth spending a few hours in. You’ll find cafés, restaurants, fine grocery shops, distilleries, microbreweries, and even a cheese factory.
Start at Les Petits Plaisirs du Roy, a brand-new gourmet grocery founded by young entrepreneur Alex Roy. Here you’ll find fine local products, ready-to-eat dishes from nearby producers, wines, beers, ciders — and their famous homemade caramels.
Next door, stop by Comptoir Moutarde, my top pick for a delicious lunch made with care and the best local ingredients. Just a few steps away, you’ll come across Distillerie Comont and/or L’Autre Brasserie. Enjoy a tasting, grab a few bottles of your favorites, and stroll over to Atelier Tréma Café, a beautiful space that blends a handmade pottery boutique with a cozy café. Sit back with a coffee or tea and a sweet pastry — pure bliss.
Before hitting the road again, stock up on fresh cheese curds at Fromagerie Missiska, known for their products made exclusively with A2 milk from their own Jersey cows — a perfect option for those who are sensitive to lactose.
For aperitif hour, head to one of my favorite vineyards in Quebec: Maison Agricole Joy Hill. You’ll be charmed by their elegant, additive-free wines crafted with deep respect for the land. Discover how Riesling, Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner, Gamay, and Blaufränkisch grapes can truly shine in this unique terroir and climate.
Then check in at the elegant and modern Maison Stillwater in Knowlton (they also have two other beautiful properties in Dunham).
If you’re in the mood to cook, you can whip up a feast using the day’s gourmet finds in the fully equipped kitchen. Not feeling it? Head out to Ensemble, the new wine bar in town, or grab a pizza and craft beer at La Knowlton Co.
Tommy Dion – Le Cuisinomane
Start your day at Caron et Frères for the best coffee in town and their famous breakfast sandwich. Treat yourself to a seasonal creation — I loved The New Yorker, made with cold-brew coffee infused with butter caramel and softened with just a hint of milk. Heaven in a cup.
Coffee in hand, stroll down the hill to La Pantry Knowlton, where you’ll find yet more fine local products, then make your way to the Knowlton-Lac-Brome Farmers’ Market to meet the artisans behind them. Fruits, vegetables, breads, meats — it’s the perfect time to enjoy the local harvest and plan your dinner.
After dropping your finds back at the house, head to Eastman to discover a delightful spot where you can enjoy lunch on the terrace, shop for gourmet souvenirs, and linger over coffee and dessert. Welcome to Bowen Café! Originally located in Orford, the café has recently opened a larger, sun-filled space in the heart of Eastman village. Expect delicious sandwiches, fresh seasonal salads, generously topped pizzas, and a tempting selection of homemade cakes, cookies, pop-tarts, scones, and muffins.
If you’re looking for a deeper level of relaxation, take a detour to Spa Bolton. Otherwise, head back to Maison Stillwater to enjoy the amenities, take a nap, or play some board games.
As the evening sets in, pour yourself a local drink (you’ve got plenty from yesterday!) and prepare a laid-back meal, letting your creativity lead the way.
Tommy Dion – Le Cuisinomane
After breakfast and check-out, it’s time for some fresh air at Mont SUTTON. Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, or other outdoor adventures, there’s something here for everyone — families, beginners, and thrill-seekers alike.
For lunch, Cube-IK, the outdoor restaurant on-site, serves up burgers, Mason-jar salads, and hearty poutines. But if you’re looking for a cozier spot to sit down, I highly recommend La Réserve Naturelle, right on Sutton’s main street. This wine bar doubles as a wine shop, meaning you can find some fantastic bottles at very fair prices. The menu highlights local, seasonal ingredients — and trust me, you’ll eat very well here.
Your 48 hours may already be coming to an end… but you’ll be heading home with a full belly, a happy heart, and plenty of delicious memories to hold onto.
Tommy Dion – Le Cuisinomane
Shopping
12 Gourmet Food Stores
Taste the Townships
Where to Get a Good Cup of Coffee in the Eastern Townships
