13 best things to do in Orford, Quebec this summer
The perfect 24-hour itinerary around Mi-clos
Nestled in the heart of Quebec’s beautiful Eastern Townships (Estrie), just minutes from Mont-Orford National Park and Lake Memphremagog, Mi-clos is the perfect home base for exploring one of Canada’s most scenic regions. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a luxury glamping vacation, or a relaxing weekend surrounded by nature, here’s our favorite way to spend 24 unforgettable hours in Orford.
1. Start your morning with coffee on your private dome terrace
Before setting off for the day, take a moment to slow down and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Wake up to panoramic mountain views, fresh forest air, and the quiet sounds of nature from your private terrace.
If you’re craving a local treat, stop by Mifigues Café for one of their exceptional coffees and their famous raspberry scones (we may be slightly obsessed).
2. Hike Mont-Orford National Park
No visit to Orford is complete without exploring the hiking trails at Mont-Orford National Park, one of Quebec’s most beautiful protected areas.
Whether you choose Mont Orford, Mont Chauve, Mont Alfred, or Mont Giroux, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains, endless forests, and sparkling lakes stretching across the Eastern Townships.
From beginner-friendly walks to more challenging summit hikes, there’s a trail for every type of adventurer.
3. Enjoy lunch on a sunny terrace
After your hike, treat yourself to lunch on one of Orford’s charming outdoor patios.
Our personal favorite? Georges from Les Deux Tomates, where wood-fired pizzas, homemade spicy oils, and fresh ingredients make every meal memorable.
Other great local restaurants include:
- Le Alfred (perfect for cocktails and an excellent smash burger)
- La Super Tonkinoise
- Café des Cantons
- Burger Pub
- Pub Le Chalet
Summer in Orford is patio season.
4. Swim or cliff jump at lake Fraser
Cool off after your hike with a visit to Lake Fraser, located inside Mont-Orford National Park.
The lake features crystal-clear water, beautiful sandy beaches, kayaking opportunities, and natural rock formations where adventurous visitors enjoy cliff jumping.
As the sun begins to set over the surrounding mountains, the scenery becomes truly unforgettable.
5. Visit local wineries with incredible mountain views
Just a few minutes from Mi-clos, Vignoble d’Orford offers guided vineyard tours and wine tastings featuring wines crafted directly on-site.
Owners Pierre and Guylaine personally guide visitors through the vineyards before welcoming guests into their winery for tastings of their signature wines, all while overlooking spectacular mountain scenery.
Looking to explore even more? The Eastern Townships is home to several exceptional wineries, making it a perfect destination for wine lovers.
6. Stop by Vanden Eynden Chocolate Shop
A local institution in nearby Magog, Chocolaterie Vanden Eynden is a must for chocolate lovers.
Handcrafted chocolates, truffles, artisan treats, and homemade ice cream make it the perfect afternoon stop before continuing your adventure.
Better yet, enjoy your dessert on their terrace overlooking the mountains.
7. Enjoy ice cream along lake Memphremagog at sunset
No summer visit to Magog is complete without strolling along Main Street before heading to Pointe Merry for sunset.
Our recommendations:
Lavinia’s favorite: artisan ice cream from Maître Glacier.
Donat’s favorite: soft-serve dipped in chocolate, served in a freshly made waffle cone at La Fée Glacée.
Watching the sun disappear behind the mountains while enjoying ice cream is one of the simple pleasures that makes summer in Quebec so special.
8. Try Happy hour on a lake Memphremagog cruise
See the region from a different perspective aboard a Grand Cru cruise on Lake Memphremagog.
The evening cruises are especially magical, with golden light reflecting off the water as the surrounding mountains glow in the distance.
You can also book lunch or dinner cruises for an unforgettable dining experience on the lake.
9. Wander through downtown Magog
Downtown Magog offers the perfect blend of boutique shopping, art galleries, cafés, restaurants, and beautiful lakeside walking paths.
Take your time exploring Main Street before making your way to Pointe Merry, where festivals, live music, and community events bring the waterfront to life throughout the summer.
10. Discover local food producers
The Eastern Townships is renowned for its local food scene.
Spend an afternoon visiting artisan cheese makers, farmers’ markets, gourmet producers, and specialty food shops.
Some local favorites include:
- Fromagerie Nouvelle France
- Les Cochons Tout Ronds
- Fromagerie La Station
- Abbaye Saint-Benoît-du-Lac Cheese Factory
If you love Quebec cheeses, charcuterie, and local products, you’ll be in heaven.
11. Play golf surrounded by mountain views
Even if you don’t usually travel with your clubs, Mont-Orford Golf Club is worth experiencing.
Every hole offers a different perspective of the surrounding mountains, mature forests, and rolling landscapes that make this course one of the most scenic in Quebec.
After your round, returning to your private hot tub at Mi-clos feels especially rewarding.
12. Enjoy an exceptional fine dining experience
If you’re looking for an unforgettable evening, the Orford and Magog area is home to several outstanding restaurants.
Some of our favorites include:
- Huit 5 Quatre, where Chef François Lessard offers an extraordinary tasting experience
- Parcelles
- Les Mal-Aimés
Our tip: reserve well in advance during the summer season.
13. End the day in your private hot tub at Mi-clos
After a day exploring Orford, there’s nothing better than returning to your luxury dome.
Relax in your private hot tub, enjoy a private sauna session, cool off under your private outdoor shower, and watch the sun disappear behind the mountains from your own secluded terrace.
At Mi-clos, nature takes care of the rest.
Why visit Orford in summer?
Orford is one of the most complete summer destinations in Quebec.
Within just a few minutes, you can hike mountain trails, swim in pristine lakes, tour award-winning wineries, discover artisan food producers, enjoy outstanding restaurants, play golf, or simply admire breathtaking Appalachian landscapes.
Whether you’re visiting from Montreal, Toronto, New England, or anywhere else in North America, Orford offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery.
And because Mi-clos is located in the heart of it all, you’ll spend your days discovering the best of the Eastern Townships before returning each evening to the comfort, privacy, and tranquility of your luxury dome with its own private hot tub and sauna.
Ready to experience the perfect Eastern Townships getaway? Discover your next stay at Mi-clos and enjoy Quebec’s most relaxing nature escape.