Not far over the New England/Canada border is the region known as the Eastern Townships or the Cantons de l’est in French. The countryside is beautiful with quaint small towns dotting the landscape. Agriculture rules with fresh fruit, cheese, and other homegrown food.
Today, though, it’s not about romantic inns with breathtaking views of the lake or the mountains. On this trip, we’re vacationing, as I most often do, with kids in tow. I asked my son what his favorite parts of our trip to the Eastern Townships were. His answers are what this itinerary consists of, making this a visit to the Eastern Townships for kids.
Lodging – Estrimont.
We stayed at the Estrimont Hotel in the resort town of Orford. Orford sits at the foot of the mountain that shares its name. It is associated with many outdoor sports, such as skiing and biking.
The hotel has comfortable, spacious rooms with porches. The size accommodates a family easily, with two separate areas for sleeping, inside the same room. The facilities here are fantastic. My kids absolutely loved the large heated pool and an adjoining swim-in hot tub. Without the age restrictions of much of the spa area that we often have in the States, they loved popping in and out of the smaller hot tubs, the dunk pool, and even the saunas!
With so much to do outdoors, my kids enjoyed sitting by the firepits. Other areas include tennis courts, a bocce court, and an expansive lawn, which kept them entertained for hours. Although we left our dog, Hamlet, at home, it is dog-friendly, so it’s not rare to see a pooch wherever you go.
Blueberry picking
Look for pick-your-own blueberry farms in season. Plump, sweet berries are scattered in clumps in bushes. Many of these farms are no frills; just pay for your bucket and go pick. No fancy hayrides or farm stores, just fresh fruit.
Bleu Lavande
Stroll among the expansive lavender fields of Blue Lavande. On a pretty day, enjoy sipping a beverage outside, have a picnic, or let the kids romp on the playground on site. There are plenty of photo ops as you explore the grounds. I thought for sure this would not be a hit with the kids, but with fields to explore, the playground, and informational displays indoors, Bleu Lavande was a family favorite!
Sherbrooke Museum of Nature and Science
During our visit to the Eastern Townships with kids, the Sherbrooke Museum of Nature and Science was the only official “kid” based attraction that we did. It was a hit for all three boys, though. They all loved going on the scavenger hunt that made them thoroughly peruse the exhibit, showcasing the fauna and flora of the region. That exhibit was a favorite by all, but they also enjoyed the interactive science theater very much.
Whenever we travel, we try to do an array of activities. This itinerary, in particular, though, was the Eastern Townships for kids. Meaning it skipped the fromageries and wineries. For whoever is in your party, I can promise you that the Eastern Townships will be a hit!
