Our home exchange in Quebec was a bit remote, far from everything, but surrounded by breathtaking scenery. After that long drive through Maine, I got my first peek of it out my bedroom window at sunrise. Over the course of the week, we explored the trails around the house, had a fire in the yard, enjoyed the farm-fresh eggs and got to know one of the two cats (the other was very shy!).
We didn't quite get used to the home's water, which supposedly was safe to drink but had the definite odor of sulphur from the nearby copper mines. The couple sites within walking distance of the house explored this history.
The nearest village, North Hatley, was a holiday destination, probably more bustling in the summer, but beautiful in fall! The cemetery was yet another Reed, luckily, we didn't stay there long.
Another nearby village was Magog, which was situated on a giant lake and was full of restaurants, art galleries, and a wetland path.
A little further afield, an Abbey where the monks produce apples, cheese, cider and chocolate.
We also took a day trip to what claimed to be the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge. It was just another gorgeous setting and a nice woods walk.
We were most excited about our trip to Quebec City, having all heard glowing reviews of it's stately European streets and quaint cafe-lined squares. We drove 5+ hours round trip to see it. While the weather wasn't as perfect that day, the city itself was indeed pretty. We managed to take in most of the main city sights during our day. I fulfilled my dream of getting one last French pastry on this trip, and we had a lovely crepe lunch in celebration of my parents’ wedding anniversary!
After checking out of the house, we drove to the Montreal airport for their flight back to Seattle. I drove the rental car back to Boston, which gave me the opportunity to make some stops. First, a riverside run in Montreal to glimpse the skyline.
Then, I got to see one more state, a very pleasant drive down Vermont with some stops recommended by cousin. I stretched my legs again in Burlington, a lovely lakefront town with a pedestrian street full of local flavor. I could have spent many more hours there. I stopped again to pick up fresh bread and lots of baking ideas at the King Arthur flour company. Finally, I got to join my cousin for one more dinner at her Massachusetts home. We don’t get to see each other enough, so that stop was fully worth the 2 very early mornings and travel days.
Now I’m on my way to some very familiar territory, my home town and favorite friend hangout, Seattle! We don’t know quite where we will end up after that, but after this year of travel, we don’t really want an address. Hopefully I will be continuing this blog with more new destinations next year!