Go Van’s Top Picks: 6 Not-to-Be-Missed Stops on La Route des Vins
When vanlife enthusiasts discover the art of living in the Eastern Townships
The Go Van team recently explored La Route des vins de Brome-Missisquoi, and to say the least, they were totally wowed by the experience! These nomad travellers, used to grandiose landscapes and authentic discoveries, found a genuine playground for the senses in our wine region.
Here are their 6 absolute favourite stops, tested and approved by explorers who know how to recognize memorable experiences.
Domaine des Côtes d’Ardoise: Irresistible European Charm
Why Go Van couldn’t resist: Primarily for its authenticity! This Québec pioneer (the province’s first commercial vineyard) immediately dazzled our travellers with its undeniably European character. The distinctive slate stones and carefully tended gardens create an setting reminiscent of the finest French estates.
A Highlight to Discover: The Nature et Création presentation ($5) adds a unique artistic dimension to the visit. Set along a path approximately a kilometre in length, this open sky art exhibition is said to be the most important of its kind in all of Québec. You can admire 130 works of art displayed along the way and at the foot of the vines.
Their favourite selections: La Marédoise (white) and their Côte d’Ardoise Rosé
The Paradis des fruits Dunham : The Perfect Slow Travel Experience
Why Go Van Loved It: This delicious stopover is perfectly in tune with the vanlife spirit; taking one’s time, connecting with nature, and stocking up on delicious treats. Picking your own blueberries and raspberries in season becomes almost meditative!
Tip from a Pro: Follow their lead and freeze your pickings for vitamin-packed smoothies all winter long, topped with the creamy, unpasteurized honey available on site.
Their technique: Perfect for relaxing a while between wine tastings!
Brasserie Dunham : The Atmosphere That Makes the Difference
Why Go Van Loved it: Karolina and Julien immediately fell in love with the unique atmosphere of this terrace. The modern-rustic blend, combined with the old bricks of the Relais de la Diligence, a heritage building built in 1865, and the urban murals, creates a particularly warm and friendly atmosphere.
Their winning combo: IPA + Banh Mi sandwich + coppa pizza = the perfect trio to recharge your batteries!
The bonus experience: Keep an eye out for the festive outdoor evenings at the Beergarden, located just behind the building. Music, good food, and beer are on the menu!
Vignoble Bromont : Services that Really Make a Difference
Why Go Van recommends this venue: In addition to their fine wines and country setting, with their adorable free-range chickens, what makes a difference for travellers are their thoughtful amenities; waste disposal, water refills and electrical connections are all available here!
That Little Added Touch: Musical performances every Thursday and Friday evening add an irresistible festive touch.
An amazing find: Their Nuit d’octobre red wine.
Vignoble Domaine Bresee : An Inspiring Sustainable Approach
Why Go Van was so impressed: With over 25 years of experience in sustainable viticulture, this estate is well known for its quality wines. Their light red wines, as well as the rosés and whites, are well worth the trip, and the opportunity to taste a cuvée still in pre-bottling made for an exceptional moment!
A Unique Experience: Trout fishing in the pond, an overnight stay at the vineyard, and local delicacies (merguez sausages, minced meat) sourced directly from the estate’s livestock.
Exclusive to them: a presale tasting of their Bressoc Blanc 2022.
Château Ste-Agnès : Their Absolute Favourite
Why Go Van is still talking about them: This vineyard château provided THE magic moment of the trip. The Tuscan setting, the vineyard’s layout and architecture with its vines planted on hillside terraces, the European musical ambiance… everything contributes to creating this truly unforgettable experience.
The Perfect Moment: The spontaneous picnic ($58) with appetizers, wine and cheese and charcuterie platter, savoured in this exceptional environment
Their advice: Don’t worry about the weather; the experience is always amazing!
Practical Advice for Vanlifers
Where to spend the night: Many vineyards welcome vans for an overnight stay. You’ll need to contact them directly to find out more about their terms and conditions:
- Vignoble Bromont, Brigham
- Vignoble Domaine Bresee, Sutton
- Clos Saragnat, Frelighsburg
- Vignoble le Di-Vin, Saint-Armand
- Vignoble de l’Orpailleur, Dunham
The Go Van Formula: Although the group’s 6 favourite stops are accessible within a radius of around thirty kilometres, they recommend taking two days to fully appreciate each venue.
