3 Unique Places To Stay In The Eastern Townships, Quebec

I recently began a new chapter in my travel adventures: the hunt for unusual accommodations. Yup, I’m on a mission to shake things up a bit. I’m talking yurts, treehouses, teepees — anything that makes my eyes widen with excitement. So when I heard that the Eastern Townships offer a range of epic accomodations, I had to experience them for myself. Beyond thrilled to try something new, I packed my bags, flew over to Montreal via Porter and drove approx 90 min into the heart of the Eastern Townships with a group of travel media. The route was incredibly scenic, the conversations were lively and the accommodations were glorious. With numerous glamping and unconventional options dotting the region, deciding where to stay can be a challenge. But don’t fret: I made my rounds and narrowed down a list of recommendations. Here are three unique places to stay in the Eastern Townships:

1. Huttopia

Sigh, there’s really nothing more rejuvenating than spending time in nature. But staying overnight in the wilderness takes things to a whole new level. Falling asleep to the sound of rain drumming against the canopy, breathing in the fresh air, waking up to birds chirping joyously in the morning… It’s quite dreamy. And all the things I experienced while we were at Huttopia. Nestled in the heart of a gorgeous 65-hectare forest, the property looks like something out of a fairy tale. We arrived when it was pitch black and circled the grounds with headlamps in search of our tent (got a bit lost, had a few laughs and eventually found it). I had no idea what to expect, but was blown away by the size and comfort of our home for the night. You see, Huttopia has a variety of glamping options (think wood floors and canvas exteriors) ranging from La Bonaventure (cozy shelter for two) and La Canadienne (sleeps five, has real beds, electricity, fridge and gas stove) to the ultra luxe La Trappeaur photographed above (sleeps five, has real beds AND a bathroom!!) and Le Chalet (which is a solid wood structure that sleeps six with all the comforts of home). We had the privilege of staying in La Trappeaur and absolutely loved it. It had two separate sleeping areas, a kitchen, living room space with wood stove, electricity and the luxury I appreciated the most: an indoor washroom! Glamping done right…

While you’re there… Go for a hike around the property – there are plenty of trails. And spend some time at the welcome centre: they have great food (order the pizza, you won’t regret it), a lovely pool, entertainment area and coffee/breakfast for those lazy mornings. Note: there is no WiFi on the property so this is a place to unplug and bond — old school styles.

2. EXP Cabins In Mont-Megantic

Magic. Pure magic. I immediately fell in love with our EXP cabin as soon as I laid eyes on it. Scandinavian minimalism at its best: floor-to-ceiling windows, prominent use of wood throughout and an emphasis on nature (in this case, you’re pretty much engulfed by a forest). Basically it’s something you’d see on the cover of Dezeen or any modern architecture magazine. The unique accomodations can be found throughout Parcs Québec and are designed to reflect the personality of each park. We stayed at the cabins in Mont-Megantic which can accommodate up to four people (two bedrooms, one bathroom, full kitchen, electricity and hot water). What I really loved about our cabin was that it felt completely isolated. There was a stillness I felt laying on the bed that I haven’t felt in quite a while… And in the morning I woke up to a bird perched right above me (don’t worry: the skylight divided us). I really wish I could spend a solid week at the cabin. It was a re-energizing, inspiring and calming place. But even more magical is the park it’s nestled inside…

While you’re there… Take a hike and explore Mont-Megantic. There are 25 km of multi-purpose trails and 17 km of hiking trails that will lead you to breathtaking scenic lookouts. We took the moderately difficult route up Sentier des Escarpements (3.8 km) and were treated with the epic view photographed above. Another MUST in the park is a visit to the Astrolab (an international dark sky reserve). Put this on your bucket list and I promise it will NOT disappoint. We spotted Mars, Saturn, thousands of stars and were even fortunate enough to witness the northern lights!! It was a travel memory I will never forget. Absolutely humbling, mesmerizing and thought-provoking all at the same time. Oh universe…

3. Treegloo, Pod Cabins or Treehouses At Au Diable Vert

Yes, you read correctly: treegloo! Perched 12 feet in the air at the edge of a 100 foot drop, this is one of the most interesting structures I’ve ever heard of. It’s super spacious (sleeps up to four people), has a wood stove for cooking and offers spectacular views of Mont Sutton…

Fun, right?! If you’re on the hunt for a large variety of unique accomodations to choose from, look no further than Au Diable Vert. These guys are incredibly creative and always coming up with new ideas. Like their cozy (and shire-like) Pod Cabins…

And you can even stay overnight in a treehouse (this may or may not have been a childhood dream of mine)!

Vintage airstreams, classic log cabins, prospector tents, mountain view suites — you name it, Au Diable Vert probably has it. The award-winning outdoor centre is truly a gem in Quebec.

While you’re there… Go fishing (they guarantee you’ll catch something!), kayaking, tubing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing. The list goes on and on and on. But the most exhilarating is soaring through the treetops via VéloVolant. It was definitely one of the most unique activities I’ve ever tried. Just imagine yourself on a recumbent bicycle pedalling through a 1000 m circuit that weaves through the forest, passes ravines, over waterfalls and has epic views of the Green Mountains of Vermont. All while hanging mid-air from towering maples and pines. An adventure for the bucket list…

I hope this post gives you guys some inspiration for unique places to stay in the Eastern Townships! There are so many options in the region so I’m hoping to head back to explore more. This trip really got me thinking differently about accomodations. Perhaps they shouldn’t just be looked at as a place to rest our heads. They, too, can be unforgettable experiences and even the most memorable part of our travels. At least they can be if you stay at any of the spots listed above. Nature awaits!

Our accomodations and activities were complimentary as part of a press trip to the Eastern Townships. As always, all reviews and opinions are entirely my own.