The Perfect Motorcycle Itinerary in the Eastern Townships

Motorcycles are an especially interesting means of transportation for a tourism outing in the Eastern Townships. Therefore, we asked our colleague Annie, who enjoys heading out regularly on a motorbike with her husband, to share with first-time visitors her favourite itinerary for exploring our region.

The following route showcases the best of what our area has to offer: picturesque landscapes, friendly villages, vineyards and all kinds of gourmet stops.

The Sutton-Frelighsburg-Saint-Armand-Dunham Loop

Distance: 116 km

Departure: Tim Hortons, at the corner of Routes 202 and 139 (according to Annie this is where motorcyclists usually meet in the region).

Admiring the Mountain Views

At the Tim Hortons intersection, turn left and take Route 139 South towards Sutton’s Coeur Villageois. The views of the Sutton mountains Massif are simply magnificent.

As you leave the town of Sutton, continue on Route 139 South, towards Abercorn. Take des Églises Ouest Street on the right for 4.7 km. You’ll enjoy some amazing views of Vermont’s Green Mountains Range (including the summit of Jay Peak), as well as of Mount Pinacle.

When you come to the stop sign, turn left on Chemin des Érables and then, at the next stop, turn right on Chemin Richford. Don’t hesitate to stop at Clos Saragnat, where you’ll discover one of Québec’s oldest orchards. Here you’ll meet Louise Dupuis and Christian Barthomeuf (the inventor of ice cider) and experience tasting their exceptional organic cider.

Then, at the junction of Route 237 North, turn right towards the town of Frelighsburg, considered as one of Québec’s most beautiful small villages. Here, we suggest you drop by La Rumeur Affamée to enjoy a great tasting cup of coffee along with a delicious Viennese pastry. And, if you can, stop by La Fournée des sucreries de l’érable to pick up one of their famous maple syrup pies!

Towards Missisquoi Bay

Continue east on Chemin Saint-Armand, a magnificent winding and hilly road. Towards the end of summer, you’ll come across a field of sunflowers in bloom—a true ray of sunshine!

After about 20 km, you’ll arrive at a stop sign on Route 133. Cross the highway to Avenue Montgomery, then turn right onto Avenue Champlain. A few public benches will welcome you to take a moment to appreciate the Zen ambiance emanating from Lake Champlain.

Next, the Route des vins Brome-Missisquoi

Continue on Avenue Champlain and turn left on Route 133 towards Pike River. After 7.1 km, turn right on Route 202 East which will take you to the town of Bedford (Annie strongly suggests you make a short gourmet detour to the Fromagerie Missiska known for its excellent cheeses made with pure jersey cow milk).

Continue on Route 202 towards Dunham. On your way, you’ll find yourself riding across the Dunham Valley recognized as being the birthplace of Québec’s viticulture industry. Annie recommends you stop at the Vignoble de l’Orpailleur, économusée du vigneron.

In addition to their delicious wines, you can select from a French bistro-inspired menu on the terrace of their restaurant, Le Tire-Bouchon. At the Vignoble Gagliano, just next door, you’ll be welcomed by a Little Italy type ambiance. You’ll find picnic tables where you can eat your lunch or enjoy their famous wood oven baked pizzas. If time allows, we suggest another stop at the Domaine des Côtes d’Ardoise, Québec’s first commercial vineyard! Savour their wines and walk along the paths of their “Nature et Création” art exhibition featuring over a hundred outdoor sculptures.

Then, further down the road, in the heart of the town of Dunham, you’ll find more restaurant options such as the Brasserie Dunham where you’ll discover their highly renowned beers and their delicious pub-style menu, or yet again, the restaurant La Bodega and their Spain and Latin America inspired tapas. Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, head back out on Route 202 to return to Cowansville.

Enjoy your outing!