Just across the border into Canada and a few miles north of  Vermont and east of New Hampshire, Le Camping de Compton is at home in a captivating region of Quebec Province known as the Eastern Townships. About 80 kilometers (49.7 miles) to the east of Montreal and about 100 kilometers (62.13 miles) south of Quebec City, the region is dominated by the province’s picturesque countryside of mountains, forests, and rolling farmland.     

 

The area abounds with attractions of all kinds. The charming country village of Compton is known for its prolific orchards and is, in fact, one of the areas in Quebec where visitors can pick their own apples.     

 

One of the oldest and most unique nearby attractions is the Saint-Benoît-du-Lac Abbey. Benedictine monks have lived a contemplative religious existence at the Abbey since 1912. Their lives are focused on their search for God and on prayer, balanced with study, physical work, and pastoral ministry to their guests. Visitors can purchase such items as cheese and cider, books, tapes of music, etc.     

 

An equally popular attraction is the Observatoire du mont Mégantic, an observatory for astronomical research and teaching. Its 1.60-meter telescope is the largest of its type in North America.     

 

If it’s scenic beauty you want, you’ll find it in the Parc de Récréation du Mont-Orford. Dominating the landscape are the mountains of Orford and Chauve where hikers and wanderers can enjoy great panoramic views.     

 

The Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook is home to a 50-meter deep gorge, a phenomenon created by the Coaticook River.  A 169-meter long suspended footbridge over the gorge is the world’s longest (entered in the Guiness Book of Records).