The Eastern Townships has so many adorable small towns to explore, which includes Coaticook. Coaticook makes a great destination for a day trip because it combines the beautiful outdoor scenery with great food and drink. Here is how to spend a day in Coaticook, Quebec.
Visit the Laiterie de Coaticook (Dairy Producers)
Coaticook ice cream is known for being made with all natural ingredients, in addition to being gluten and peanut free. On-site you can either purchase ice cream to go, or have an ice cream cone. There are so many flavours to chose from orange to mokacaramel. There is also a small exhibit featuring antique instruments that were used in the production of ice cream. It’s a great first stop when you get to the town and who can resist locally made ice cream?!?
Hike in the Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook
When it was inaugurated in 1989, it was considered the longest footbridge in North America measuring 169 meters. Overlooking the Coaticook River Gorge that is 50m deep, the bridge provides beautiful views and a unique perspective. As part of the Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook, the suspension bridge leads to a series of easy trails that allows you to learn about the hydroelectric damn and station. Along the trail you will also see a tall observation tower that you can climb up. It takes a little bit of work to get to the top, but the views are more than worth it. You can see the entire Eastern townships and during the fall you are treated to spectacular colors.
Sample Beer at the Coaticook Microbrewery
Coaticook Microbrewery is bar, brewery, and restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. After spending the day walking outdoors, dropping by the microbrewery is a great way to end the day. They produce nine beers in addition to seasonal options like cranberry and maple. I tried the 1864 (amber ale) and the Abysse de la Gorge (stout) and thought both were pretty stellar in my completely un-expert opinion! They also have a limited menu with the usual pub fare. I selected the poutine topped with ground beef and bacon and be warned, the servings are HUGE! You can easily share with a friend. The gravy is beer-based (of course!) and the cheese curd is from the Laiterie de Coaticook, so you know you are eating quality, local ingredients.
Check out their website: http://microbrasseriecoaticook.ca/
Visiting the Eastern townships, here some other posts you should check out:
Memprhemagog Wine and Food Tour
