11 minute read

RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER

Escape to Bromont: A Change of Scenery in the Eastern Townships

When was the last time you took a breath of fresh air and really let loose?

A change of scenery is waiting in Bromont, Québec, halfway between Montréal and Sherbrooke and only a half-day’s drive from Toronto. The Eastern Townships region, which made the 2023 New York Times’ list of must-visit destinations, is a treasure trove of outdoor experiences.

Bromont is a cyclist’s dream, with thousands of kilometres of gravel and road bike routes in the area, offering beautiful scenery and an unparalleled riding experience. The Parc des Sommets and Bromont, montagne d’expériences provide 200 km of mountain bike trails and hiking trails, and whether you prefer cross-country, enduro or downhill biking, you will find courses for every level.

Bromont is known for its cycling community! As the host of the National Training Centre with its Centre National de Cyclisme and its newly built Velodrome, this city is the epicentre of cycling in Canada and a must-visit for biking enthusiasts. Bromont is the perfect starting point for cyclists taking

RAYE MOCIOIU to the trails and also makes for a spectacular day trip. Cycling isn’t the only thing that makes Bromont unique— with small-town charm in spades and a seemingly endless supply of things to do, see, and eat, the magic of Bromont is waiting to be discovered around every corner. Summer brings an abundance of opportunities to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Whether your perfect summer day includes a trip to the Wave Pool in the Bromont Waterpark, hiking and picnicking at the summit of mont Bernard, or getting up close and personal with animals at the nearby Granby Zoo,

Bromont is the place to make lifelong memories.

Golf enthusiasts will be charmed by Bromont’s three golf courses that host world-class golf events!

Golf Château-Bromont, Le Royal Bromont, and Le Vieux Village are all certified championship courses by PGA Canada, distinguished by the quality of their greens, immaculate conditions, breathtaking scenery and unparalleled customer service. Old Bromont, on Shefford Street, is the perfect place to spend the day. There’s so much to see in this charming and historic region, from the unique architecture of the Anglo-Saxon legacy to the colourful streets full of art galleries, boutiques, and local shops. Locals will tell you that the true magic of Bromont can be found in its restaurants—gourmet flavours abound with so many exciting local products and dishes to taste and discover. Whether you prefer discovering hidden gems or indulging in tried-and-true local favourites, Bromont has something for everyone to savour. The local products of the Eastern Townships will delight even the pickiest of palates. A trip to the Brome-Missisquoi Wine Route, also known as La Route des Vins, yields the perfect after-dinner treat: a bottle of locally made wine from one of 20 Québec vineyards, all located along a scenic stretch perfect for a day trip.

Bromont offers an infinite source of reenergizing possibilities where you can connect with nature. Indulge your senses at one of Bromont’s renowned spas that enable well-being and wellness through the power of aromatherapy, herbal therapy, and well-being gardens. BALNEA spa + réserve thermale, for example, is the largest spa natural domain in Québec, located in the middle of nature.

At the end of your day exploring all the best that Bromont has to offer, you can rest assured that your accommodations will be equally as indulgent. The perfect trip requires time for relaxation, after all! From charming bed and breakfasts to chalets, campgrounds, and hotels of all sizes and styles, you can choose to wake up in the heart of the city or be surrounded by nature. Whatever your style, you’ll find it in Bromont.

Visit tourismebromont.com to plan your adventure in Bromont.

Experience West Coast Wilderness at Nimmo Bay

Deep in the heart of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest, on the shore of the Pacific Ocean, lies a uniquely wild experience. Here, the hustle and bustle of your everyday life couldn’t be further away. Who needs the rumbling noise of traffic when you have the serene and soothing sounds of nature—the wooshing calm of the ocean’s waves, the whispers of the wind blowing through the trees, and in the distance, the sounds of animals foraging along the shorelines. This is what it means to feel the call of the wild.

TIME FOR PLAY

IN NIMMO BAY

British Columbia’s Nimmo Bay, described as Mother Nature’s Backyard, is home to once-ina-lifetime experiences. Wild adventures are their specialty, with a natural abundance of wildlife and numerous areas to explore by boat, kayak, paddle boarding, helicopter, and of course, on foot.

The resort’s wilderness lodge is the ideal place to watch black and grizzly bears in their natural habitat ethically and safely. Expert guides certified by the Commercial Bear Viewing Association make this experience both exciting and informative.

On the waters, orca and humpback whales, long-time residents of the region, often pop up to greet visitors— whale watching is touted as an exhilarating experience not to be missed. Kayaking through the coastal islands is also available, both as a guided day trip complete with a gourmet picnic or on your own with a hot drink and a camera to capture the sights.

Paddleboarding, hiking, and helicopter rides are visitor favourites for exploring the region’s beauty from all heights and angles, and guided safari day trips will take you to remote areas as you indulge in the sights, stories, and history of the islands.

Sustainability In The Wild

This luxury wilderness resort places a careful focus on protecting the land it resides on.

The Murray family, the founders and owners of the resort, have always strived to minimize their carbon footprint and share the benefits of living sustainably.

Nimmo Bay is run by innovative and sustainable systems, like the hydropower system, fueled by streams and waterfalls and provides clean drinking water and up to 80 per cent of the resort’s power. Naturally, these methods continue in the resort’s kitchens, where all culinary ingredients are sustainably sourced and purchased from local farms. Composting and recycling are non-negotiables here; even their wastewater is converted into clean water suitable for re-entry to the environment. The resort also supports surrounding communities through tourism and education, inspiring a love of the land in all who come to stay, and funds groundbreaking wildlife research and activism. Their partnerships with local non-profits further their mission to live sustainably: Nimmo Bay proudly supports the Smokehouse Foundation, an organization that promotes coastal Indigenous communities and peoples living in remote areas, focusing on balancing environmental protection with infrastructure improvements.

Nimmo Bay’s wellness philosophy is grounded in the healing powers of nature and the intentional experiences one can find in the wild. Wellness guides will lead you through parts of the wilderness that you’ve never imagined, from walking meditations to forest bathing and floating saunas to cedar hot tubs at the base of a cascading waterfall. You’re sure to return home feeling renewed and rejuvenated—and looking forward to your next adventure in the west coast wilderness.

Edmundston, New Brunswick: The Doorway to Atlantic Canada

If you’re inspired by the fresh air of the Atlantic, being surrounded by historical charm, and meeting friendly locals, Edmundston, New Brunswick, is where you need to be.

Formerly Petit-Sault, now Edmundston, was founded around 1790 by Acadians fleeing Loyalists’ arrival from the East.

Today, Edmundston is the most important business and service hub in Northwestern New Brunswick and a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Discover the natural, cultural, and friendly charm of this vibrant city located at the Atlantic gateway along the sumptuous Saint John River nestled in the Appalachian!

Immerse yourself in history by walking the downtown core and discovering historic buildings, sites, cathedrals, and even a British Fort. Make it a walk to remember by charting your route across the Madawaska River, crossing the magnificent Bernard-Valcourt pedestrian bridge. While you’re there, take some time to learn about the Legendary Republic of Madawaska, a small, unrecognized state in the northwest corner of Madawaska County, New Brunswick.

Outdoor enthusiasts, grab your paddles and descend our majestic rivers or crisscross our unrivalled mountain bike trails, which are increasingly popular amongst the most ardent cyclists. Only minutes from downtown Edmundston, the Madawaska Trails are a mountain biker’s dream. With 60 kilometres of singletrack trails, ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level, there are trails for every kind of adventurer. Every summer, the tracks are home to an XCM endurance race and an Olympic XCO race—must-see events for fans of the sport. Or pedal freely along the Interprovincial Petit Témis bike trail, a 134 kilometre-trail following the Madawaska River and Témiscouata lake. If you prefer keeping your feet on the ground, there’s no shortage of aweinspiring hiking trails, from short trail loops perfect for taking in the fresh air, or the beloved longdistance Méruimticook trail for those who like to spend the whole day basking in the natural charm of the outdoors.

Why stop with the day when you can keep the outdoor adventures going after dark?

Two unique new outdoor accommodations in the region are bringing glamping to a new level. Sleep in a luxurious dome with a panoramic view of Lake Baker and its surrounding mountains at Ekö Nature Glamping, or fall asleep to the soothing sound of the Quisibis River in a geodesic dome at Quisibis Domes.

Expand your senses at the New Brunswick Botanical Garden, which will captivate you with its stunning colours and mesmerizing aromas and textures! Taste the unique local flavours of this corner of Acadia: the famous “ploye,” character craft beers, and maple products.

End your night with a selection of mouth-watering artisanal craft beers at Edmundston’s newest microbrewery: Microbrasserie Ateepic, located on The Edmundston Fraser

Golf Course. This hidden gem has recently announced its own quartet of in-house beers, including the Pin Noir Oatmeal Stout and the delicious, coffee-infused White Pine Stout.

Another favourite for a night on the town is the Brasseurs du Petit-Sault microbrewery, located in a former police station at the very heart of downtown Edmundston. This local hotspot is proud to share the region’s history through its beers, brewing with water drawn from the winding Iroquois River basin, the finest malts and hops, and Belgian yeast.

There is so much to discover, so join in on the fun! Visit tourismedmundston.com to start planning your trip.

Beyond the Northern Lights: Discovering the Beauty of Mount Logan Ecolodge and the Kluane Region

At the border of Kluane National Park, home of Canada’s tallest mountain, Mount Logan, awaits an adventure that doesn’t compromise on comfort or excitement.

Just two hours from Whitehorse in the beautiful Haines Junction, Kluane region is the gateway to wilderness fun, enchanting views, and eco-tourism experiences that show you the beauty of the great outdoors.

There is so much to explore in this region—still largely unexplored, every corner reveals a beautiful pocket of nature or a view that few others have seen before. Part of the largest non-polar icefield in the world, the sights you’ll find here will make for stunning photos and even better memories.

ADVENTURES

AT GREAT HEIGHTS

When mountains surround you, it’s only natural to get out there and explore!

Whether you’re an easygoing explorer or a seasoned adventurer, Mount Logan Ecolodge is home to countless outdoor activities that will show you all there is to love about the wilderness.

The Yukon is a hiker’s dream, and Mount Logan Ecolodge is the perfect base camp for your expeditions. Discover hidden lakes fed by melting glaciers, follow sparkling rivers and canyons through impossibly tall trees, and marvel at the unforgettable panoramic views that await you at the top. There are countless trails to explore, with hiking options of every length for every skill level.

The lodge offers custom experiences in partnership with sister company Yukon Guided Adventures, giving you the opportunity to embark on private tours with an expert by your side, making every moment unforgettable. With an experienced guide by your side, you can leave the routes to the experts and just enjoy the journey!

Explore the Kluane region by car and discover the charm of the region. Scenic drives surrounded by spectacular landscapes mixed with small-town charm and friendliness are just a few of the reasons to fall in love with the Yukon. Learn about local history and the majestic Kluane national park’s landmarks, mountains, lakes and rivers, and stop into hidden gems along the Alaskan Highway. Or see the mountains from great heights with a flightseeing tour, available year-round.

In the winter, the Yukon is the perfect place to take on snowy trails and landscapes, and the winter activities at Mount Logan Ecolodge are not to be missed. Traverse the backcountry and pristine landscapes and forge trails with your guide on snowshoes, or enjoy an exciting glacier flightseeing tour. Don’t forget your sunglasses!

Summer In The Mountains

What’s better than spending summer on the lake? How about adding stunning mountains to the mix? Take on the waters with the Pine Lake Canoe Tour, perfect for beginner and intermediate paddlers who want to take in glacier views while listening to the soothing sounds of wildlife. Or take the whole family on a rafting tour, travelling through wildlife habitat and soaking in the stunning views of the Mount Elias Range. It’s an epic journey, complete with a delicious picnic and telling stories around a riverside campfire—exactly what summer dreams are made of.

For those who love an adventure, embark upon a 4×4-SUV Wilderness Tour in the Alsek Valley, where you’ll travel through creeks, old river beds, and mountainsides, learning about the history of the Great Alsek Lake.

End the perfect day with an equally captivating sunset. The Yukon is home to one of the world’s most spectacular wonders, the northern lights. Also known as aurora borealis, with long nights and few hours of daylight, Yukon winters offer plenty of possibilities to view this natural phenomenon. From mid-August to mid-April, watch in wonder as the pinks and reds of the sunset fade into a starry sky, complete with mind-blowing views of the northern lights. The memory alone will stay with you long after your trip ends.

Home Away From Home

Don’t compromise on your vacation accommodations—whether your heart is calling for a luxurious sabbatical in a two-story guest suite, or an unplugged wilderness experience in a Mongolian-style yurt, the perfect stay is waiting for you at Mount Logan Ecolodge. Here, accommodations range from luxury rooms to unique outdoor accommodation options. For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, spend a night in a private and furnished school bus—spend the evening under the stars and fall asleep in a cozy king bed…the best of camping with the comfort of glamping. No matter where you stay, every accommodation includes a lovely cooked breakfast and a three-course dinner.

Mount Logan Ecolodge is the perfect place for private rentals as well, with accommodations ready to welcome your family and friends for gatherings and relaxing retreats. Find yoga, meditations, Wim Hof method retreats, and so much more.

GUIDED BY NATURE

More than just a destination, Mout Logan Ecolodge is a place to explore, rejuvenate, and create memories that last a lifetime. Located in a place of pristine wilderness and part of the traditional territory of the Southern Tutchone people, Mount Logan Ecolodge protects and acts as stewards of this unique region. When surrounded by some of the most beautiful sights nature has to offer, it’s no surprise that taking care of the beauty you see will become a priority, and Mount Logan Ecolodge makes this a cornerstone of its business. Embracing its nature-based location, the lodge strives to constantly enhance and improve their sustainability practices and minimize their environmental impact. From growing their own produce to upholding eco-tourism standards like recycling, minimizing water usage and energy consumption, as well as offering interpretative programs that help guests understand the history and landscapes they are visiting, the lodge hopes to impart a love of nature on every guest who comes to visit.

This article is from: