Summary
Nestled at the intersection of the Saint-François and Magog rivers resides the charming city of Sherbrooke. This city boasts a rich history, with its inhabitants tracing back approximately 8,000 years. Nonetheless, it was during the 20th century that Sherbrooke truly established its prominence.
As the economic, cultural, and institutional heart of the region, Sherbrooke has earned the moniker ‘Queen of the Eastern Townships’. The city embodies this title through its urban center, lush green spaces, and scenic surroundings of mountains, lakes, and rivers.
Sherbrooke is adorned with heritage sites, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders, making it an ideal destination for a holiday. Should you find yourself in the city, do not miss these 15 top attractions in Sherbrooke:
1. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping
Regardless of the season—winter, spring, summer, or fall—Mont Bellevue Park offers various activities to ignite your sense of adventure. Covering 200 hectares, the park is the city’s largest, with its pinnacle reaching 333 meters above sea level.
The park boasts approximately 30 kilometers of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. In summer, indulge in tubing on the water or down the slopes in the winter.
For skiing or snowboarding enthusiasts, Mont Bellevue Park is a winter destination, while spring or fall invites hikers and wildlife spotters to experience its beautiful flora and diverse fauna.
2. Gaze at Art
Founded in 1982 by local art enthusiasts, the Sherbrooke Museum of Fine Arts has become a premier establishment showcasing a permanent collection that features works from artists throughout Quebec’s Eastern Townships.
Visitors can explore three levels of exhibitions, with the first two showcasing traveling displays and the third dedicated solely to regional artists.
The museum occupies a historic 19th-century building in downtown Sherbrooke, having converted a former bank into a gallery housing over 4,600 artworks.
3. Learn About the City’s Natural Diversity
Year-round, you can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the province at the Sherbrooke Nature and Science Museum. Housing over 65,000 objects and specimens, the museum offers insights into the region’s ecological richness.
The displays include plant and animal fossils, minerals, scientific instruments, and archaeological artifacts, providing an in-depth understanding of the local ecosystem.
Alongside its permanent collection, the museum features special exhibitions. After your visit, consider stopping by its boutique for unique souvenirs.
4. Look at Castles
Alternatively, appreciate the castle-like homes of the Rock Forest neighborhood. Originally a farming village, it now hosts some of the city’s most distinguished residents.
Wander through the streets and admire the impressive architecture. A recreational center in the vicinity offers tennis, racquetball, volleyball courts, and dining options.
Rock Forest primarily serves an Anglophone community within a predominantly Francophone city, where residents are known for their hospitality towards visitors.
5. Visit an Armoury
The Sherbrooke Armoury serves as the base for the Sherbrooke Hussars and houses a Canadian Army Sherman Tank. This building is designated as a national historic site.
Noteworthy features of the Sherbrooke Armoury include its low-pitched gable roof and expansive drill hall. It also hosts the Les Fusiliers de Sherbrooke Regimental Museum, which emphasizes the military history pertinent to both Sherbrooke and Canada.
6. Have Tea
Experience traditional English tea at the Uplands Cultural and Heritage Centre. Afternoon tea is available every weekend throughout the year and on weekdays during the summer.
Enjoy a selection of tea accompanied by scones, Devonshire cream, and homemade strawberry jam, along with cucumber sandwiches and pastries in summer. Opt for the full high tea experience to indulge in quiche and savory bites.
Seasonal variations allow tea to be enjoyed in the gardens, on the terrace, or inside the historic house, which also features period-reminiscent display rooms.
7. Go to the Theatre
Although the Granada Theatre is now recognized as a national historic site, it still hosts various performances. Initially constructed as a cinema in 1929, it has transitioned from film showings to live events.
The building showcases Spanish Revival architecture with an interior designed by renowned local decorator Emmanuel Briffa. The city operates the theatre to preserve its legacy and historical significance, so visitors should check the theatre’s website for its programming.
8. Wander Around a Prison
Winter Prison, which ceased operations in 1990, is now a noteworthy attraction. Constructed in 1865, it holds the title of one of the city’s oldest structures.
Though abandoned and reputedly haunted, the prison was once home to some of the region’s most notorious criminals. Visitors can view the building, typically from the exterior.
9. Enjoy a Festival
As a cultural nucleus of the area, Sherbrooke hosts a plethora of vibrant festivals throughout the year. Note that the summer months feature the Fête du Lac des Nations, a six-day event filled with music, fireworks, and amusement rides.
Furthermore, visitors can explore the cultural diversity of Sherbrooke during the Festival des traditions du monde, also taking place in the summer, or savor the festivities of Carnaval de Sherbrooke in winter.
10. Hike Through a Forest
The Bois Beckett Forest is distinct from other forests in the vicinity, comprising ancient maple and beech trees.
Traverse the 70 hectares of the forest while appreciating the mature trees and wildlife. The forest is home to over 100 bird species, offering chances for keen bird watchers to spot them.
With eight marked trails totaling 6.1 kilometers, there is ample hiking available. In winter, Bois Beckett Forest is also ideal for cross-country skiing.
11. Sip on Wine
Indulge in wine tasting at La Halte des Pèlerins, an acclaimed vineyard situated in the northeastern part of the city. Additionally, consider taking a tour of the picturesque vineyards.
La Halte des Pèlerins provides three distinct tour options: Pêché Mignon, Pêché Gourmand, and Pêché Mortel. All tours highlight the history of the wine, the winemaking process, and include tastings.
For a culinary experience, select either the Pêché Gourmand or Pêché Mortel tour, where food is paired with wine. Bottles can also be purchased at their shop.
12. Visit a Mill
While not located within Sherbrooke, the Windsor Powder Mill is situated just north in Windsor. Explore this powder manufacturing mill to gain insights into the history and production of gunpowder.
Guided tours allow you to experience the powder-making process firsthand, with guides serving as knowledgeable foremen. Conclude your visit in the old factory, where a multisensory display recounts life for mill workers.
In summertime, enjoy a leisurely walk through the grounds, which feature 25 kilometers of hiking trails alongside the remnants of 56 historic buildings.
13. Taste Local Beer
The Boquébière micro-brewery presents an excellent opportunity to sample local beer. Onsite tastings reveal a variety of regional brews.
Visitors can also enjoy pints at the brewery’s bar, which hosts special events, including swing dancing and live music.
At Boquébière, beer is served straight from the cask, in keeping with English traditions, enhancing the flavors and aromas.
14. Walk Around a Lake
The Lac-des-Nations promenade is an ideal place to appreciate the outdoors, especially on sunny days. Meander around the lake while taking in the scenic views.
If walking isn’t preferred, consider renting a bike or in-line skates. One can cycle or skate around the lake, pausing at rest areas to absorb the natural beauty.
The 3.5-kilometer loop of the Lac-des-Nations promenade is accessible all year. Summertime brings opportunities to enjoy local delicacies at Marché de la Gare, featuring cheeses, meats, sausages, gelato, and more at the outdoor farmers’ market.
15. Dine on a Train
Embark on a journey through the breathtaking Eastern Townships countryside aboard the Orford Express Tourist Train. Savor a gourmet meal while immersing yourself in the scenic beauty.
The train runs between Sherbrooke, Magog, and Eastman from May through December, providing options for breakfast, lunch, or dinner experiences.
For an exceptional experience, consider a summer overnight outing on the Orford Express, which includes both dinner and breakfast, departing Sherbrooke at 6 PM.
