Ski and Savour: A Culinary Guide to Winter in Quebec’s Eastern Townships
When snow blankets the hills and the air turns crisp, Quebec’s Eastern Townships reveal a different side of their renowned culinary culture. It’s a season built for cozy firesides, hearty local fare, and après-ski indulgence.
Photo: Bromont Montagne d’Experiences
Where Winter and Flavour Meet
Just a short drive from Montréal, the Eastern Townships stretch from the foothills of the Appalachians to the Vermont border. Known for their pastoral beauty and strong agricultural roots, these communities have long attracted chefs, growers, and artisans who care deeply about the land.
In winter, that commitment shines through in comforting menus, locally brewed beers, and warm hospitality. The result is a region where skiing and gastronomy naturally intertwine — and where you can spend a day on the slopes followed by a meal that feels both elevated and grounded.
Photo: Jean-François Hamelin
Skiing the Townships
Four major resorts form the heart of the region’s winter playground: Mont Orford, Owl’s Head, Mont Sutton, and Bromont. Each offers something distinct.
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Mont Orford lies within a national park, surrounded by forested trails and panoramic views. The mountain offers alpine runs, snowshoeing routes, and cross-country loops that suit every pace.
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Owl’s Head overlooks Lake Memphrémagog, making it one of the most scenic ski hills in the province. The terrain is varied and family-friendly, with an updated lodge and strong snowmaking.
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Mont Sutton is known for its glade skiing and community feel — a favourite among locals who value authenticity over flash.
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Bromont, montagne d’expériences keeps the fun going well into the night, with evening skiing, lively après-ski spots, and an accessible atmosphere.
If you plan to visit more than one, the L’EST GO Card allows you to preload ski days across all four mountains, offering flexibility and savings. Beyond downhill, the region’s parks and trails open up endless options for winter hiking, skating, and cross-country skiing.
If you’d rather leave the planning to someone else, Landsby’s Quebec Ski Getaway brings together all four of the region’s major resorts — Mont Orford, Owl’s Head, Sutton and Bromont — in one easy itinerary. The multi-day journey combines lift passes, cozy stays and a car rental that allows you to fully partake in the Townships’ relaxed, food-forward culture.
Read more about skiing in the Eastern Townships in Head for the Hills from volume 2 of Northern Soul Magazine.
Fuel for the Slopes
A morning on the mountain works up an appetite, and the Townships’ resort villages make eating well part of the experience.
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At Mont Orford, the Slalom Pub is a popular stop for local microbrews and shareable plates, from smoked meats to Quebec cheeses.
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Bromont’s Daffy Café-Bar pairs sweeping views with hearty sandwiches and casual comfort food.
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In Sutton, Bar Le Tucker offers a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. And with evenings dedicated to open mike, live music and DJs, live music often fills the chalet after hours.
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Owl’s Head has refreshed its dining options in recent years, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and warming winter staples. The MTN Haus Resto-Bar has space to sit and savour a bite between runs.
Après-Ski and Evening Indulgence
When the lifts close, the culinary scene comes alive. Across the region, chefs and producers use winter as a canvas for creativity.
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Magog’s Taverne 1855 serves regional cuisine with a modern touch — a favourite for its relaxed service and focus on local sourcing.
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In Sherbrooke, Madame B is known for minimalist, ingredient-driven dishes that showcase the best of the region, all paired with a great wine list.
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For a more rustic experience, Beat & Betterave in Frelighsburg doubles as a café, nanobrewery, and live performance space, while Brasserie Dunham is a must for craft beer fans.
Drinks of the Season
Few places in Quebec match the Eastern Townships for diversity of local drinks. The region’s microbreweries, cideries, and distilleries continue to operate through the colder months, offering tastings and tours that complement a day outdoors.
Don’t miss the area’s signature ice cider, made by pressing apples after they’ve frozen on the tree or in storage. The result is a syrupy, golden cider that captures the essence of Quebec’s winters. Pair it with local cheese or dessert to finish an evening meal.
If spirits are more your style, regional distilleries produce gin, whisky, and liqueurs infused with local botanicals. Many tasting rooms remain open through winter — a warm way to spend a snowy afternoon.
Between ski runs, you can also browse winter markets, visit chocolate shops, partake in cheese tastings and shop at locally owned boutiques.
Travel Tips
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Reserve early: Top restaurants and spas book up quickly in peak ski season.
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Dress for transitions: Pack layers so you can move comfortably from the slopes to a restaurant table.
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Bring a car: Having your own vehicle or renting a car makes it easy to hop between ski hills and food stops.
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Check seasonal hours: Smaller producers may close on weekdays in winter.
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Leave time to linger: The pace here is slower and designed to be savoured.
A Region for All Seasons
While the Eastern Townships are magical under a layer of snow, their culinary culture thrives year-round. The same producers who supply hearty winter menus welcome visitors in spring for maple season, in summer for vineyard tours, and in autumn for harvest festivals.
Winter simply reveals another facet, one defined by comfort, connection, and the simple pleasure of good food shared after a day in the cold.
