A One-Day trip to Quebec’s Eastern Townships: Wine, Lavender, and Blueberries

After the intense summer heat in Montreal, I took the chance to escape the city at the end of July and joined a day tour to explore the beautiful Eastern Townships of Quebec.

We began our journey at Le Cep d'Argent, one of the first vineyards in the province, located in the scenic town of Magog. A professional guide welcomed us and led us through the vineyard, where we tasted three distinct wines. It wasn’t just about sipping. The guide also taught us how to properly taste and appreciate wine, which made the experience more enjoyable and meaningful.

We started with a refreshing white wine, followed by Le Fleur de Lys, a Kir-style aperitif made from white wine and blackcurrant syrup. It was light, fruity, and perfect for a summer afternoon. Then came L’Archer, a fortified red wine blended with brandy and maple syrup from Quebec. It was rich and full of character. If you enjoy fruity, aromatic aperitifs, I highly recommend picking up a bottle of Le Fleur de Lys when you visit.

After our wine tasting, it was time for lunch, so we headed to Bleu Lavande, also in the Magog region. This is the largest lavender farm in Canada. Walking into the garden felt like stepping onto a soft purple carpet gently rolled out to welcome every visitor.

We enjoyed a peaceful picnic among the lavender fields, surrounded by the soothing scent and the stunning view of violet blossoms under the sun. Visitors can stroll through the garden, breathe in the divine aroma, and take dreamy photos. There is also a guided tour that shows how essential oils are produced, a small restaurant serving lavender-inspired dishes, outdoor massages set in nature, and a boutique filled with thoughtfully crafted products for beauty, wellness, and the home.

After lunch, we visited the blueberry farm Bleuetière l'Or Bleu. It was a fun and relaxing activity to wander through the fields, picking and tasting three different varieties of blueberries. I loved filling my container with fresh berries while enjoying the simple pleasure of being close to nature.

We ended the day at Coaticook Gorge Park, home to the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. The gentle sway of the bridge offered sweeping views of the forest, where the air was fresh and the sound of flowing water echoed softly below. After a tranquil walk through the shaded trails, we treated ourselves to the famous Coaticook ice cream. Creamy and rich, it is a beloved brand in Quebec and a familiar sight in supermarkets across the province. Savoring it in the very town where it is made felt like the sweetest way to bring the day to a close.

This one-day trip was a lovely summer escape filled with beautiful landscapes, delicious flavors, and moments of calm. It reminded me how simple pleasures can bring so much joy.