Things To Do
in Magog
Magog is a picturesque town in Quebec's Eastern Townships, sitting on the southern shore of Lake Memphremagog and framed by rolling hills and nearby Mont-Orford. The town blends a lively downtown of cafés, boutiques and galleries with easy access to year-round outdoor recreation—hiking, skiing, boating and cycling. Magog is strongly Francophone but welcoming to visitors; its culinary scene highlights Quebec comfort food, local cheeses, ciders and craft beers.
Seasonal tourism shapes the rhythm here: warm, lake-focused summers and snowy, activity-filled winters around the national park and nearby ski areas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in freshly baked pastries and rich Canadian coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Magog, admiring the historic architecture that narrates the town's past. Don't forget to stop by the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.
Lunch at a quaint bistro will prepare you for an afternoon of exploration at the Magog Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the region's history through engaging exhibits. After the museum, take a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Memphremagog, enjoying the stunning views and perhaps spotting some local wildlife. Finish your afternoon with a visit to the nearby Parc de la Gare, a lovely spot perfect for relaxation.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along the lake for dinner, where you can enjoy a delicious meal featuring fresh local produce. After dinner, take a peaceful evening stroll along the waterfront promenade, taking in the beautiful reflections of the lights on the water. End your day with a nightcap at a local pub, soaking in the friendly atmosphere and perhaps chatting with the locals.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café before heading to the beach at Parc Lucien-Blanchard. Spend the morning lounging on the sandy shores of Lake Memphremagog, where you can take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. For those seeking adventure, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake's tranquil coves.
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the picturesque scenery of the lake and mountains. After lunch, join a guided boat tour to learn about the lake's history and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For the more adventurous, consider trying parasailing for an exhilarating aerial view of Magog.
Return to the shore for a sunset barbecue at one of the beach's designated areas, where you can grill local sausages and vegetables. As dusk falls, gather around a fire pit to roast marshmallows and share stories with friends or family. Wind down your day with a night-time walk along the beach, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee | $2.50-4.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $8-20 |
| 🚌Local bus fare / short shuttle | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful lake and mountain scenery with year‑round outdoor activities
- Charming small-town downtown with local food and artisan producers
- Easy access to Mont-Orford National Park and regional wineries/cideries
- Good for relaxed, family-friendly or active nature-focused trips
- Smaller town with limited late-night entertainment and shopping options
- Seasonal businesses may be closed in shoulder seasons
- Winter driving requires experience with snow and ice
- Limited public transit—having a car is convenient
Places to Visit in Magog
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic shots of the lake with reflections of boats and distant hills—great at sunrise and sunset.
Charming streetscape photos of colourful storefronts, terraces and pedestrian life.
Elevated vistas over forests, lakes and valleys—spectacular during fall foliage and winter snow.
Boat silhouettes, docks and waterside activity offer classic lakeside compositions.
Seasonal shots among apple trees and rustic farm settings—especially photogenic in autumn.
Food in Magog
Magog Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Quebec staple of fries, cheese curds and gravy—find variations at bistros and pubs throughout Magog.
Must-Try!
Traditional savory pies made with seasoned meat; popular in bakeries and during colder months.
Everything from maple taffy to pastries and glazes—look for local maple producers' products in shops and markets.
Eastern Townships are known for small cheesemakers; many restaurants and markets offer regional cheese boards.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open in warmer months on weekends: local produce, baked goods, preserves, artisanal products and ready-to-eat snacks—perfect for picnic supplies.
Seasonal food trucks and stalls near the lake selling casual fare like sandwiches, crepes and iced treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Most residents are Francophone—greet with 'Bonjour' and try a few French phrases; many speak English in tourism areas but starting in French is appreciated.
Polite, reserved behavior and waiting your turn are the norm; always say 'merci' when served.
Follow park rules, keep trails clean and respect private property—local culture values outdoor stewardship.
Safety
Tipping in Magog
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Canada; leave about 15–20% in restaurants, round up for taxis and tip bar service or hairdressers appropriately.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (tap, Apple/Google Pay) are common. Cash is accepted but less essential.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, pleasant weather ideal for boating, kayaking, swimming and cycling; expect more tourists, outdoor markets and festivals. Pack light layers for cool evenings by the lake.
Crisp temperatures and dramatic fall foliage make this a prime time for hiking and scenic drives; book accommodations early for leaf-peeping weekends.
Cold and snowy—great for downhill skiing nearby, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and skating; be prepared for icy roads and shorter daylight hours.
Variable weather with thawing trails and budding landscapes; shoulder-season pricing and fewer crowds but some seasonal businesses may open later in spring.
Magog at Night
Hiking in Magog
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails for all levels with forests, ridgelines and lakeside paths; excellent for day hikes, birdwatching and fall foliage views.
Shorter hikes that reward with panoramic overlooks of the lake and surrounding valleys—great for sunrise or sunset photography.
Easy, flat walks along Lake Memphremagog suitable for families and casual strollers, offering scenic lake access.
Rural paths connecting small hamlets, cideries and farms—especially pretty in spring blossoms and autumn harvest colors.
Airports
How to reach Magog by plane.
Major international airport about 1.5–2 hours' drive from Magog (roughly 120–140 km); car rental, shuttle or private transfer options available.
Smaller regional airport near Sherbrooke, about 30–40 minutes from Magog; limited commercial flights but convenient for private charters and regional access.
In Vermont, USA—approximately 1.5–2 hours' drive depending on border crossing; useful if combining a cross-border itinerary. Check customs and entry requirements.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of locals speak French; local culture and services are predominantly Francophone.
Smaller English-speaking and immigrant communities contribute to local diversity and tourism services.
Many visitors and second-home owners come in summer and winter for outdoor recreation, influencing the local economy.
The town appeals to retirees seeking a quieter life and families drawn to outdoor amenities and community services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed and played sport in the region with local youth and amateur teams.
Downhill and cross-country skiing are popular in winter at nearby slopes and in Mont-Orford National Park.
Road cycling and mountain biking are common in warmer months on scenic routes and park trails.
Lake Memphremagog supports sailing, kayaking and canoeing in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Magog.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafés and modern bistros offer vegetarian salads, grain bowls and cheese-focused plates; ask staff for seasonal vegetable options.
Vegan options are available but less ubiquitous than vegetarian—look to cafés and some newer restaurants, and check menus online or call ahead.
Gluten-free choices exist at bakeries and restaurants; French-Canadian cuisine is often bread- and pastry-forward so communicate restrictions clearly.