Gravel Bikes and E-Bikes: The Eastern Townships—The Perfect Terrain

Gravel bikes and e-bikes now dominate cycling travel plans, according to the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and the Eastern Townships are one of the most beautiful areas in Quebec for both: quiet gravel roads, rolling valleys, and villages where you can stop. Here’s where to start around North Hatley, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Montreal.

Why Gravel Is Gaining Popularity

Gravel roads eliminate the one thing that ruins road biking: traffic. Around Lake Massawippi, the scenery alternates between forest, farms, and scenic overlooks, with elevation changes that are rewarding rather than punishing. And e-bikes make these same routes accessible to everyone: the hills of the Cantons become a pleasure rather than an obstacle.

Three outings from North Hatley

The Massawippi Lake loop, a classic route, on gravel roads through the countryside. The Tomifobia Nature Trail, a 19-kilometer stretch of old railroad track made of crushed rock between Ayer’s Cliff and Stanstead—flat, car-free, and perfect for e-bikes. And the countryside around Hatley and Compton, where the wine route takes you from one vineyard to the next. Our guide to cycling near North Hatley covers all of these routes.

Base Camp

At Station Chêne Rouge in North Hatley, you can park your bike near your unit, stretch your legs in the pool when you return, and end the day by the fire. Cyclists who return several times a season should check out the country club membership: free Dayclub access for day trips and discounts on stays—details on the membership page. Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on over 1,200 reviews.