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Magog sits at the northern tip of Lake Memphremagog, a long, narrow lake that stretches south across the border into Vermont. The town grew around textile mills on the Magog River and has since become one of the busiest resort centers in Quebec's Eastern Townships. Its setting between water and the slopes of Mont Orford gives it a lively, outdoorsy character through most of the year.
The waterfront is the heart of town. Baie-de-Magog Park has lawns and a lakeside path, and cruises depart from MacPherson Wharf for views of the shoreline and its hills. Swimmers head to Plage de l'Ouest or Plage des Cantons on warm days. Rue Principale gathers restaurants, cafés and shops, and the Vieux Clocher, a former church, hosts concerts and comedy. Nature lovers can walk the boardwalks of the Marais de la Rivière aux Cerises, a wetland favored by birds.
Mont-Orford National Park lies just outside town, with hiking, lakes, camping and winter skiing. Wine tasting at Le Cep d'Argent and a visit to the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Benoît-du-Lac, known for its cheeses and Gregorian chant, make easy outings. Magog suits families and active couples. Summer is lively and crowded, fall brings color, and winter centers on Orford's slopes.
WiserMap travel guideMagog Quebec Lake Memphremagog Beaches and Mont-Orford HikesPlan a trip to Magog on Lake Memphremagog: waterfront parks, beaches, Mont-Orford National Park, a vineyard, Saint-Benoît-du-Lac abbey, food and an itinerary.Read the guide
Parc de la Baie-de-Magog is the lakefront park at the north end of Lake Memphremagog, right next to downtown Magog. A paved path follows the shore with benches, lawns and views down the lake toward the mountains. It is the easiest place for a walk, a bike ride or a picnic; come at sunset, when the lake is at its prettiest.
Parc de la Pointe-Merry is a point of land on the Magog waterfront with a tourist information office, open lawns and a marina. It hosts many of the town's festivals and outdoor concerts in summer. It is a good starting point for the lakeside path and for paddleboard and kayak rentals; parking can be tight on festival days.
Croisières Memphrémagog runs sightseeing cruises on Lake Memphremagog from the MacPherson wharf in Magog. The boats sail past wooded shores, grand summer houses and the Saint-Benoit-du-Lac abbey, and commentary covers the history of the lake and its legendary sea serpent, Memphré. Cruises run in summer and early fall; book ahead.
Plage des Cantons is the main public beach of Magog, on the shore of Lake Memphremagog near the town centre. It has a sandy beach, a supervised swimming area in summer, a snack bar and lawns for picnics. There is an entry fee in high season; arrive early on hot weekends, when the beach and parking fill quickly.
Rue Principale is the lively main street of downtown Magog, lined with cafes, restaurants, bars, boutiques and old brick buildings. It is a pleasant place to stroll after a day on the lake and is only a few minutes on foot from the waterfront parks. Terraces fill up in the evening in summer, so book a table on weekends.
The Vieux Clocher de Magog is a former church turned into an intimate performance hall, known for launching the careers of many Quebec comedians and singers. It presents humour, music and theatre shows through the year, mostly in French. Check the program and buy tickets in advance, as seating is limited and shows often sell out.
The Marais de la Rivière aux Cerises is a protected wetland on the edge of Magog with boardwalks and trails through marsh, forest and along the river. It is a good place to see herons, ducks, turtles and beavers. Entry is free; bring binoculars and insect repellent, and go early in the morning for the most birds.
Mont-Orford National Park lies just north of Magog and protects Mount Orford, several lakes and mixed forest. Visitors hike to summits with wide views, swim and canoe at Lac Stukely and Lac Fraser, and ski at the Mont Orford resort in winter. A daily access fee applies; trails are busy on fall weekends, so start early.
Saint-Benoit-du-Lac Abbey is a Benedictine monastery on a point above Lake Memphremagog, about 20 minutes south of Magog. Visitors can see the church, attend Gregorian chant at services and buy the monks' cheeses and cider at the shop. Dress modestly, keep quiet inside the church and check the shop and service times.
Le Cep d'Argent is a family vineyard on the outskirts of Magog, one of the older wineries in the Eastern Townships. Visitors can taste white, red and fortified wines and learn how grapes are grown in this cold climate. Tastings and tours run mainly from spring to fall; call ahead for group visits and choose a designated driver.
La Memphré is a brewpub in downtown Magog named after the lake's legendary sea serpent. It brews its own beers on site and serves pub food in a relaxed room and on a terrace. It is a good stop after walking Rue Principale; ask for a tasting flight to try several of the house beers.
The Fete des vendanges Magog-Orford is a wine and food festival held on the Magog waterfront around Labour Day weekend. Wineries, cheese makers and other local producers offer tastings, with music and activities for children. Buy a tasting glass at the entrance, take the shuttle or walk in, and expect big crowds on Saturday.
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