Stanstead, Quebec- The Eastern Townships
Welcome to our second edition of The Eastern Townships!
If you missed our last post, I mentioned how my family has a long history of loving this area of Canada, over 200 years in fact!
This week, we’re going to be focusing on the Stanstead area! (One of my personal favourites!)
Stanstead is such a unique area of The Townships! The history of Stanstead is actually incredibly interesting, given its proximity to the border…it is literally ON the border! Fun Fact, during the Great Depression many locals made a fortune smuggling alcohol to the USA. Times have changed drastically for the little village, however its unique history and beautiful destinations are worth the trip.
This unique little place is actually made up of three towns, Stanstead, Beebe, and Rock Island. Just last year, CBC’s show Still Standing did an episode filmed in Stanstead, which you can check out here on CBC Gem.
Here are are the five things you MUST do if you find yourself in the Stanstead, Quebec area!
Haskell Library & Opera House
Rumour has it that the Beatles almost reunited here back in the day! This library/ opera house is actually built ON the border with the United States, and citizens of both counties are able to enter freely! There is even a line that runs through the building to show which side you are on. There are a wide variety of books available to sign out, in both french and english, and you are welcome to take a guided tour of the building as well.
Bleu Lavande
Bleu Lavande is a MUST if you are in this area of the Townships. It is the largest lavender farm in North America, second largest in the world! Be sure to give yourself lots of time to explore the grounds, partake in a tour, and enjoy some local foods (including lavender lemonade). Their website provides you with all the information regarding hours, history, products and more, you can click here.
Heath Orchard
Apples, beautiful pottery, fresh honey, and local maple syrup and jams, does it get any better?! This has been a favourite spot for us to check out each summer.
Dufferin Heights
Just up the road from Heaths Orchards is Dufferin Heights, a beautiful golf course that offers stunning views of the mountains. Even if you’re not into golfing, just drive into the parking lot to check out the scenery, it is breathtaking (especially at sunset!)
Colby- Curtis Museum
High tea anyone? This museum and tea house is such a beautiful space, and their food is delicious! In the summer months, they have lovely gardens that you can stroll through after your enjoy your tea in the sunroom. My mom, sisters and I have had high tea here on a number of occasions, from casual summer afternoons to St. Patricks Day.
