A mere 70 kilometres (44 miles) south-east of Montreal, the Eastern Townships, which border New England, get their name from the British system of land division in colonial times. The countryside is characterized by fertile valleys scattered with postcard pretty villages like Knowlton, Frelighsburg and Dunham, founded, in large part, by Loyalists - settlers loyal to the British Crown. Charming, year-round resorts such as North Hatley and Magog on the shores of scenic Lakes Massawippi and Memphrémagog (the origin of their unusual names are Abenaki) have been welcoming visitors for well over a century.

Follow the « Route des Vins » (« Wine Route ») or tour the region on bike trails which traverse former railway lines and quiet country roads. How about a round of golf ? A play at one of the summer theatres ? Or maybe you’d like to get out on the water, in a sailboat or canoe? Outdoor lovers will find plenty to keep them occupied - hiking during the fall, skiing Mont-Orford or Sutton, mountain resorts in the northernmost reaches of the Appalachian chain.

And what better way to relax after a day in the fresh air than tucking into a gourmet dinner ? The Townships are renowned for their excellent restaurants whose chefs take great pride in creating adventurous dishes that highlight regional products.

For more informations go to : www.easterntownships.org