CHASING FALL COLOURS: CANADIAN ROAD TRIPS WITH LEXUS CANADA
To make the most of this fall season, we embarked on road trips through two iconic locations, Quebec's Eastern Townships and Vancouver, each while behind the wheel of a Lexus. In this feature, you’ll find recommendations and travel tips for each destination. This travel feature is brought to you in partnership with Lexus Canada.
As the leaves begin to change colours, the chase to catch them begins. The goal is to hopefully position yourself at the right place and time to witness the peak fall colours in all their glory, which can be a bit tricky if you’re planning a trip in advance. Fortunately, we had impeccable timing and experienced incredible conditions in mid-October in both locations. Here's a quick recap with some notable places to see and activities to do in Quebec’s Eastern Townships and Vancouver.
Our adventure started in Montreal where we picked up the all-electric Lexus RZ 450e and left the hustle and bustle of the city to drive towards the Eastern Townships, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, rolling hills and abundance of fall colours. The forested hills and charming villages served as the perfect backdrop to capture and embrace the essence of the season. We took our time to wander through colourful parks, hike along winding trails, cozy up in quaint cabins and savour all the tranquil moments that autumn in the Eastern Townships had to offer.
Quebec Eastern Townships Region Must-See Highlights and Tips
Mont Owls Head - Hike the Panorama Trail
Immerse yourself in nature on a relatively short hike with an expansive view.
Saint-Benoît-Du-Lac - Quebec's Smallest Municipality
Experience the quaint charm of the community.
Mont Orford National Park - Cozy Cabin Retreat
Unwind in a rustic cabin just outside of Mont Orford National Park.
Étang Baker - The Idyllic Heart-Shaped Lake
Take a scenic flight over the picturesque heart-shaped lake for a romantic escape.
Canoeing the Missisquoi River with Canoe & Co
Rent a canoe for a scenic float along the river; shuttle options are available.
Travel Tips
Language:
French is the primary language in Quebec, so learning some basics can greatly enhance your experience. However, you can usually get by in the Eastern Townships with English.
Useful Resource: Tourisme Québec's Interactive Mapping Tool
Tourisme Québec has developed a valuable mapping tool that provides weekly updates on fall conditions in various regions throughout the province. It's an invaluable resource for planning your trip around the colours!
After an incredible few days spent basking in the colours of Quebec's fall foliage, we made our way to the west coast. Known for its easy access to the ocean and nature, Vancouver is a popular and beloved Canadian destination. The lush parks, looming mountains and waterfront views provided a different but equally beautiful palette of fall-colours mixed in with massive coniferous trees, set against the backdrop of modern high-rise buildings.
On this leg of the journey, we drove the impressively fuel-efficient Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In Hybrid to explore the city and the natural beauty surrounding it. Mornings were spent with hikes through the serene rainforests of Lynn Canyon and Stanley Park, while evenings found us meandering the city streets. These two contrasting worlds create the perfect combination for adventurous travellers seeking variety.
Vancouver, British Columbia Must-See Highlights and Tips
Gastown - Cafes and Restaurants in the City’s Oldest Neighbourhood
Explore Gastown's cobblestone streets for a plethora of cafes and restaurants, perfect for foodies and coffee lovers.
Stanley Park - Seawall Strolls and Old Growth Forest
Don't miss a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the seawall at Stanley Park for views of water, mountains, beaches and plenty of fall colours amongst the rainforest trees.
Lynn Valley - Suspension Bridge
For a more budget-friendly alternative to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, visit Lynn Canyon Park. The suspension bridge is free, and the surrounding forest offers great hiking trails. If you’re feeling adventurous be sure to go for a cold dip in the creek!
Lighthouse Park - Rainforest Hike
Hike through an old-growth rainforest to reach a rocky shoreline with a lighthouse and breathtaking views of the mouth of the Howe Sound. Keep an eye out for owls and other wildlife in the park.
Wreck Beach - A Unique Coastal Experience, Au Naturale
Renowned not only for its clothing-optional status but also for being one of Vancouver's hidden gems. While this is a famous nude beach it also happens to be one of the nicest beaches in the city. Prepare for a mini workout navigating the famous staircase for an authentic taste of "Vancouver culture" that's unlike any other.
Travel Tips
For the Best Sunsets:
Lonsdale Quay
Sunset Beach
Lighthouse Park
For the Best Sunrises:
Queen Elizabeth Park
Burnaby Mountain
Cypress Lookout
Weather-Appropriate Clothing:
Vancouver's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain or shine. Layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are essential in the fall.
Vancouver is a diverse and vibrant city with plenty to offer, so be open to new experiences and enjoy your time exploring this beautiful part of Canada!
