Sherbrooke is a vibrant city surrounded by rolling hills, meandering rivers and lush maple forests. Nicknamed the “Queen of the Eastern Townships”, Sherbrooke showcases French-Canadian culture in its fantastic fine arts museum and one of the country's most beautiful university campuses.

Things to do

The Musee des Beaux-Arts showcases a fantastic collection of works from artists across Canada. It's housed in a magnificent Victorian-era building and focuses on local Quebecois talent, including an entire floor dedicated to landscapes painted by Frederick Simpson Coburn.

Stroll the Reseau Riverain, a scenic walking and cycling path hugging the Riviere Magog. The river flows into Lac des Nations, a picturesque lake fringed by a paved boardwalk. Nearby is Marche de la Gare, a breezy plaza with gourmet food vendors selling artisan cheese, cured meats and flaky pastries.

Bishop's University offers a glimpse at Quebec's academic history. It's modelled after Britain's iconic Oxford campus and is filled with grassy courtyards and beautiful Gothic Revival architecture. Don’t miss seeing St Mark's Chapel with its carved wooden sculptures, gleaming pews and multicoloured stained-glass windows.

Refuel at Siboire, an atmospheric microbrewery housed in a historic train depot. Beer lovers will swoon over more than a dozen tap beers, including a maple scotch ale crafted with real Quebecois syrup. In summer, you can sip on beer in the outdoor terrace.

Getting around

Sherbrooke is best explored on foot or with a bicycle especially around the historic centre. Sherbrooke is 25 kilometres north-east of Magog and two hours from Montreal. A rental car is best for exploring the Eastern Townships.