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As soon as the lakes are warm enough for swimming and the trails begin to dry, many Quebecers start asking the same question: what is there to do in the Eastern Townships in summer? Also known as the Estrie region, the Eastern Townships bring together lakes, mountains, vineyards and one of Quebec's most beautiful starry skies within just a few dozen kilometres.
From a morning swim to an evening spent stargazing, summer unfolds at the perfect pace for disconnecting. This guide brings together the region's best summer activities and suggests convenient places to stay so you can enjoy your getaway without spending too much time on the road. You will also find a summary table, planning tips and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
The Eastern Townships offer everything many travellers look for in an active summer getaway: lakes that are ideal for swimming, an extensive trail network, a renowned Wine Route and some of the darkest skies in the province. All of this can be found within approximately 30 to 90 minutes of Montreal.
This concentration of attractions makes it possible to enjoy several types of activities in a single day, from outdoor adventures in the morning to local food and drink in the afternoon. This rare versatility helps explain the region's popularity during the summer.
Summer is also longer and milder here than in northern parts of the province. The lakes begin warming up in late June and often remain suitable for swimming through September, extending the season for water activities. Mild evenings are perfect for campfires and stargazing.
The region is easily accessible by Highway 10, followed by scenic roads winding through the Townships. This accessibility makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway, without requiring long hours of driving or complicated planning.
Rather than presenting activities one location at a time, the following suggestions are organized by category, making it easier to build an itinerary around your interests. This approach allows you to plan each day according to your energy level and the weather, combining, for example, a morning on the water, a midday hike and an evening beneath the stars.
Lakes Memphremagog, Brome and d'Argent offer public beaches and clear water. Smaller and less well-known lakes also provide opportunities to swim away from the crowds. Remember to bring sun protection, as many beaches provide little shade during the middle of the day.
Between outdoor activities, the Eastern Townships are just as enjoyable to taste as they are to explore. Cheese makers, microbreweries, farms and farm-to-table restaurants can be found throughout the region, extending the experience through local flavours, often just a few minutes from the lakes and trails. To build a culinary itinerary between activities, explore these favourite food destinations in the Eastern Townships, featuring a selection of local highlights.
Kayaking and paddleboarding are available on most of the region's lakes, with equipment rentals offered on site at several locations. They are among the best ways to explore the shoreline at sunrise, when the water is calm. Beginners will appreciate sheltered bodies of water, while experienced paddlers may prefer the larger lakes, which tend to become windier in the afternoon.
Mont-Orford National Park offers more than 80 kilometres of trails, including the renowned Crêtes trail leading toward the summit. Mount Sutton provides additional options for hiking and trail running. Routes range from family-friendly walks lasting less than an hour to demanding climbs with panoramic views of the Townships' lakes and valleys.
The Townships' cycling routes pass through vineyards, villages and rolling countryside. Many routes are suitable for both families and experienced cyclists. Some sections follow former railway lines and are flat, shaded and well suited to children, while the region's hilly country roads appeal to athletes looking for more elevation.
The region is home to the Mont-Mégantic International Dark Sky Reserve, the first of its kind. Observation evenings, telescopes and activities at the ASTROLab extend the day well beyond sunset. Several programs are designed for families, with astronomy explained in a way that is accessible to children. Even in summer, evenings can remain cool, so remember to bring warm clothing.
This table will help you decide what to do in the Eastern Townships in summer based on your schedule and the weather.
| Activity | Where to enjoy it | Difficulty level | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swimming | Lakes Memphremagog, Brome and d'Argent | All levels | Supervised beaches in summer |
| Kayaking and paddleboarding | Regional lakes and LAO | Beginner to intermediate | On-site rentals available |
| Hiking | Mount Orford and Mount Sutton | Easy to difficult | Park access fees apply |
| Cycling | Townships cycling routes | All levels | Helmets recommended |
| Astronomy | Mont-Mégantic and the ASTROLab | All levels | Reserve evening activities in advance |
There is no need to limit yourself to one activity per day. A typical day might begin with a morning swim, continue with an afternoon hike and end with an astronomy evening, all without driving more than a few dozen minutes between stops.
To enjoy the Eastern Townships in summer without spending too much time on the road, it is best to choose a centrally located home base, such as the LAO mini-cabins in Racine, near Magog and Mount Orford. Guests have direct access to a lake and trails on the property, along with a thermal area for relaxing after an active day.
It is a convenient base for alternating between swimming, hiking and stargazing evenings.
Choosing accommodations near a lake and walking trails reduces travel time and leaves more room for activities. This is especially valuable in summer, when roads leading to the most popular sites become busier later in the morning. A central base also allows you to return and rest between outings, which is particularly helpful when travelling with children or after a long hike.
To picture what a complete stay might look like, see how a long weekend in the Eastern Townships can unfold through a series of discoveries.
When planning what to do in the Eastern Townships in summer, a few simple guidelines can help you avoid unpleasant surprises:
For a more immersive experience, glamping is another excellent option in the region.
Finally, keep some flexibility in your schedule. Summer weather can change quickly, and it is better to postpone a kayaking trip than to face a thunderstorm on the water. A successful summer getaway leaves room for spontaneity and rest instead of filling every moment with activities.
Knowing what to do in the Eastern Townships in summer mainly means choosing from a wide range of experiences. Swimming, kayaking, hiking, cycling and stargazing can be combined according to your interests. Whether you are travelling as a couple, with family or with friends, the region accommodates every pace, from an active getaway to a more contemplative escape. A successful stay often begins with choosing a well-located home base.
To experience all of this from one location, discover our mini-cabins, located just steps from a lake and hiking trails.
When deciding what to do in the Eastern Townships in summer, begin with water activities such as swimming and kayaking on lakes Memphremagog, Brome and d'Argent. Add hiking in Mont-Orford and Mount Sutton parks, cycling along the Townships' bike routes and an evening of stargazing at Mont-Mégantic. Because these activities are located close to one another, you can enjoy several of them in a single day, from morning until evening.
Kayaking is available on most of the major lakes in the Eastern Townships, including lakes Memphremagog, Brome and Massawippi. Several locations offer on-site watercraft rentals, so you do not need to transport your own equipment. Some accommodations even provide direct lake access from the property. Morning is generally the best time to paddle, when the water is calm and the wind remains light, especially during the height of summer.
Stargazing evenings at Mont-Mégantic are primarily offered during the summer, when skies are more likely to be clear and the nights are mild. The International Dark Sky Reserve limits light pollution, creating exceptional viewing conditions. Reserve ASTROLab activities in advance, as spaces fill quickly during the busy summer season. Whenever possible, choose a cloudless night without a full moon to enjoy the best view of the night sky.
