By : Nathalie Rivard.
Just around the corner is a world waiting to be explored: the Circuit de l’Abbaye, a long-distance walking trail that winds through several Eastern Townships communities, including Bolton-Est and Saint-Étienne-de-Bolton.
A little like the Camino de Santiago, but closer to home, the Circuit de l’Abbaye invites you to slow down, walk and discover the region in a whole new way. All you need is the desire to step away from your routine and take a few days for yourself. The full circuit is 150 km, but most walkers choose the four-day, three-night experience.
Four Days on the Trail
From October 1 to 4, I joined a guided group to experience the circuit. Four days of walking, covering 16 to 20 kilometres a day, along country roads and across the beautiful landscapes of the Eastern Townships.
With the guided experience, the logistics are taken care of, including meals and the base camp where you return to sleep each night. A shuttle takes us to the starting point each morning, while our luggage stays at the Gîte Route 112-Nord in Austin. We walk with just a day pack, then return to the comfort of the inn in the late afternoon.
The People Make the Journey
But what I remember most from the experience are the people I met. As the kilometres add up, a wonderful sense of camaraderie naturally develops. In the evening, we gather around a table to share a delicious meal prepared by the host, Marie-Ève Lejour. We talk about our day and forge new friendships.
Fall: A Perfect Season for Walking
Fall is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful seasons to discover the Circuit de l’Abbaye. The colours transform the landscape, and the cooler temperatures are perfect for long days of walking. On foot, you notice details that often escape you when travelling by car, and even by bike.
To learn more about the Circuit de l’Abbaye, visit https://www.circuitdelabbaye.com. Dates for the 2027 guided groups will be announced soon.
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