Take your pick: adrenaline packed or slow and contemplative?
Would you like to explore the Eastern Townships from one Dark Sky reserve to another? From the majestic landscapes found in the region to the viticultural charm of Brome-Missisquoi, you’ll discover the most amazing places by day… and by night!
Your day starts out in Notre-Dame-des-Bois, a charming town found at the gate of the Parc National du Mont-Mégantic. Enjoy a short pause savouring a homemade Viennese pastry at Pâtisserie et boulangerie du soleil étoilé. Find a place to sit on the terrace of the church from where the view is absolutely breathtaking, especially when the mountains still appear in the delicate hues of the early morning light.
Before leaving, take the time to drop by Herboristerie Apoteka, discover more local products at the public market (held on Saturdays) or complete your picnic basket at the town’s Magasin Général.
The time has now come for you to head out to the park itself for an outdoor adventure on the Mount Mégantic loop trail, an 11 km hike in the Observatory sector. From the top of this 1,110-meter elevation, the summit offers a spectacular view with the added surprise of discovering our Canada jays.
After nightfall, immerse yourself in the star-filled universe at the ASTROLab, a unique venue set in the heart of the first Dark-Sky Reserve. Participate in an astronomy evening or visit the popular Observatory to gaze more closely at the stars.
At the end of this busy day, it’s time to relax in one of Mylène and Marc-André’s cottages, located just a few minutes from the Parc National. Whether you prefer modern amenities or rustic charm, here you’ll experience a perfectly cozy stay. But if you prefer spending the night under the stars in treehouse accommodations, simply head to camping Mont-Mégantic.
On the second day of your star gazing outing among friends, drive out towards Sutton but on the way, you must stop by Château Ste-Agnès. This amazing viticultural domain, with its stonewall terraces and European-inspired decor, is the ideal venue for savouring a glass of wine surrounded by a luxuriant nature as you enjoy a picnic in a unique setting. Then continue your route towards the Domaine Girouard, a charming vineyard where you’ll savour more local wines while enjoying the charming countryside.
When you finally arrive in the town of Sutton, you’ll be delighted by the charm of this village, built at the foot of the mountains. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of the arts or a true foodie, you’ll find something to satisfy all your whims!
Discover the six heritage routes to learn more about local history, or enjoy meeting our terroir producers on Sutton’s Gourmet Terroir Tour & Map.
In the afternoon, it’s time to head out to Au Diable Vert, a mountain resort established in Glen Sutton brimming with activities. Among others, you’ll love tubing or kayaking on the Missisquoi. Perhaps you’d like to try pedalling your way across the tree canopy on a VéloVolant?
In the evening, reserve a seat for the ObservÉtoiles experience on the resort site — the very first open sky planetarium using augmented reality technology. For an even more complete immersion, spend the night in one of the proposed accommodations: pods, treehouses, rustic shelters, or campsites.
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