They were more than happy to give us some insider tips and to share some of the little-known ways of spending time in their corner of the world…

Vivian, Server

Your favourite activity in the region?

No matter whether it’s summer or winter, I plan a trip on a fat bike through Parc national du Mont-Orford. I ride for half a day and if I want to really push my body to the limit, I take the 4.2-km Chanterelle (intermediate level) and 2.4-km L’Amanite (advance level) trails.

If you don’t have a fat bike, it doesn’t matter. Just follow my lead and rent one! You can do that at the Le Cerisier Discovery and Visitors Centre, and you don’t even need to make a reservation.

A well-kept secret known only to the locals?

I just love the view from Chemin Westover in Austin! And don’t miss the landmark inukshuk right next to Fisher Pond. I stop at this spot every time I take a motorbike ride or when I’m shopping at the boutique in the Saint-Benoît-du-Lac monastery.

Line, Cook

Your favourite activity in the region?

As soon as the warm weather arrives, I like to head for Lake Memphremagog. After spending the day relaxing by the water’s edge, I treat myself to a wonderful dinner on the terrace of Bistro 4 Saisons. That’s my idea of an absolutely perfect summer’s day!

A well-kept secret known only to the locals?

During the summer, I get my bike out and cycle along the 55-km Montagnarde trail. It crosses the region of Memphrémagog (part of larger network of cycling trails) and the scenery is breathtaking! I can honestly say that it’s one of most beautiful trails—if not THE most beautiful trail—in the entire Eastern Townships!

(BTW, did you know that Espace 4 Saisons makes the ideal base for planning a bike tour of the region? A number of the bike routes start right at the hotel!)

Pierre, Executive Chef

Your favourite activity in the region?

I love our crisp winter days! After a storm, I usually plan a day of skiing at Mont-Orford. It’s a real adrenaline rush to hit the slopes and take in the fabulous landscape with its fresh blanket of snow! I end up at the Burger Pub where I pig out with a calorie-laden meal, washed down with a cold beer! Vive l’après-ski!

A well-kept secret known only to the locals?

Whatever the time of year, I love to explore the Tomifobia Nature Trail—either on my bike or by foot. Local cross-country skiers use it during the winter, but not many outsiders know about this place. The Trail runs along a river and it is home to many species of birds… A truly relaxing spot in the heart of nature.

Thierry, Restaurant Manager

Your favourite activity in the region?

I’m a great fan of winter hiking and after 4 p.m., I don my crampons and climb Mont-Orford, just as the sun is setting. By the time I walk back down, it’s dark… a truly meditative experience! I then go off for dinner at Bistro 4 Saisons (natch!) and order something hearty—preferably comfort food—to warm me up!  

A well-kept secret known only to the locals?

Mount Gosford doesn’t always spring to mind as a place to go hiking, but summer or winter, it’s well worth the drive. The mountain is close to the border with Maine, and it takes around 40-minutes by road from Espace 4 Saisons. At 1,193 metres (3,914 feet) above sea level, Mount Gosford is the highest peak in Southern Quebec, and the fourth highest in the province. The circuit hiking trail can be covered in about six hours.

Cet article Insider Tips From the Team at Bistro 4 Saisons est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

Live from Finland, where Miha was training at the end of 2023, the sports star took time to chat to us about his favourite activities when he’s in his home region.

How do you usually spend the winter?

Skiing, of course! I’m a real enthusiast and I have so much fun on the mountains. I also practise a number of other winter sports. I’ve even taken up snowboarding!

In order to concentrate on my sport, I currently live in the Quebec City area, but I often return to the Eastern Townships to visit my family and… ski!

Describe winter in the Eastern Townships in three words.

Awesome! Stunning!! Inviting!!!

What are your favourite things to do when you’re in the Townships?

I love being active in the outdoors. I skate with my grandfather on Lake Memphremagog. That’s been our tradition for years, but I must admit it’s more enjoyable when it isn’t too windy!

I also love wandering along rue Principale (Main Street) in Magog. It’s a pleasant activity in itself—taking time to amble past the stores and to window shop…

And your favourite mountain?

Mount Orford! That’s where I learned to ski, and I come back often. I love the expert-level “Contour” trail. It has multiple pitches on different levels with sudden drops, and after a good snowstorm, it’s a superb run!

We’re spoiled for choice in Quebec. Even though the slopes are shorter than in the Alps, each mountain has its own characteristics and challenges. And let’s not forget the après-ski scene! Orford during the spring season brings back fond memories of après-ski in Europe.

How do you like to unwind and cocoon?

When I come back from a long day on the slopes, I like to sip on a hot chocolate by the fire and watch a good movie. I’m particularly fond of comedies and thrillers.

What’s in store for you in 2024?

Even if isn’t an Olympic year for me, I’ll be competing at various events. The World Cup, for example, will be in Lac-Beauport where I’m living just now, so that will be extra special! And then, I’ll be training, skiing, relaxing…. During the summer, I’ll do a lot of mountain biking, so I’m certainly going to make the most of this coming year!

Cet article Enjoy Winter Like Miha Fontaine est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

What exactly is foie gras?

When you force-feed geese or ducks, their livers become very fat and rich. In France, foie gras is a culinary delicacy. It comes from the Egyptians, who were making it as far as 3,000 years ago!

What should you look for when choosing a piece of foie gras?

The main difference between choosing foie gras is choosing the species: duck or goose. I also recommend getting to know your producer or supplier, and building up a relationship of trust.

You can find some very good foie gras locally. I get mine from the Hudson Valley duck farm.

How does it taste?

Foie gras has a subtle, mild, and slightly sweet taste. If you eat it warm (but not hot!) in a terrine, it takes on the consistency of butter. If you eat it as a pan-fried escalope, it will melt in your mouth!

How do you prepare it?

To prepare it as a terrine, don’t season it too much, because you’ll overpower its fragrant aroma. I use only salt and pepper with a dash of alcohol, like armagnac or sauternes (or why not Quebec ice cider!?)

Foie gras is much quicker to prepare as an escalope. Just fry it for two minutes on one side, then one minute on the other and that’s it! Hold on to the cooking fat. You can use it in other recipes.

How else can you eat foie gras?

You can incorporate it in practically every type of food… For example, you can add (cooked) foie gras to crème brûlée. That makes a rich, delicious dish!

Another example is when making gravy. By taking meat juices and reducing them, you can add the sauce to the foie gras, instead of using butter. I use the cooking fat from other recipes to make stovetop popcorn.

You can incorporate the fat into ice cream… There’s no limit to the possibilities!

What if I don’t like foie gras?

First of all, you have to think back to what you didn’t like about foie gras the first time you tried it.  Was it the taste? The texture? There are so many dishes in which foie gras is one of the ingredients that after a while, you will more than likely not even recognize it as the original product you disliked!

You said foie gras was on the menu at Bistro 4 Saisons?

Yes it is! I make a delicious starter of pan-fried foie gras which I serve with fruit puree and home-baked brioche. It’s a fragrant dish, so I try not to manipulate the ingredients too much to conserve its distinct aromas.

Sometimes I add a slice of foie gras to a beef fillet. And I sometimes make a Perigord sauce, which is featured on the à la carte menu and the group menu.

If reading all this has built up a hearty appetite, then head for Bistro 4 Saisons to sample the dishes for yourself! Pierre and his team are waiting for you…

Cet article The Versatility of Foie Gras With Chef Pierre Nief est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

Store your luggage at the Espace 4 Saisons hotel, then head out to enjoy the many activities and attractions around our beautiful region.

The Christmas Market Route

If you feel like shopping for all your Christmas gifts in the one day, get in your car and follow the Route des Marchés de Noël. This Christmas market route leads through Granby, Sutton, Bromont, and North Hatley (among other participating towns and villages). You’ll be able to meet the local artists and craftspeople who are offering their products and handcrafted items for sale—unique gifts with a personal touch!

It’s unlikely you’ll have time to visit every single Christmas market on the Route, but all the same, you’ll probably be tempted to visit more than one!

Before leaving, check the dates of operation and opening times so you can plan your visit(s) accordingly.

Magog’s Santa Claus Parade

A (very convincing!) Santa Claus will be visiting Magog on Saturday, December 9, 2023. He will travel along rue Principale (Main Street) in his sleigh, in tandem with costumed characters (real and imagined!) on floats. This annual parade attracts people in all age groups—a great favourite with families!

Make a Victorian Christmas Wreath at Maison Merry

While you’re in Magog, stop by Maison Merry (the Merry House) on December 10 to join a workshop where you can learn how to fashion a Victorian-style Christmas wreath. Materials are provided—birch wood, dried oranges, natural cocotte (and other small accessories)—with which you can create an eye-catching, personalized Christmas decoration for your home.

Buy your tickets for this workshop now.

Pick Out Your Own Christmas Tree

A seasonal activity to enjoy with your family or significant other, is to pick out a real Christmas tree, snap a couple of photos, then incorporate the result into a personalized greeting card!

If you’re keen to buy a real tree and put it up right away, then drop by the U-Pick Verger Champêtre farm in Granby (open from November 18 onwards). You can also stroll around the property, admiring the pretty setting of the farm and take a walk with an alpaca!

At Plantations Stéphan Perreault, a Christmas tree farm that opens on November 23, you can choose a Balsam or Fraser fir to decorate in your own style when you get back home.

Seasonal Services at the Saint-Benoît-du-Lac Monastery

If you need to take a break between a couple of heavy Christmas dinners and the crazy activity of the Holidays, head for the magnificent (and peaceful) Abbaye Saint-Benoît-du-Lac. The Benedictine monastery is holding Christmas vigils and masses (open to the public) on December 24, 25 and 31, as well as on January 1—a period of restful contemplation that will allow you to recharge your batteries…

Explore the “Sparkling” Streets of Sherbrooke!

By car or on foot, meander around the streets of the City of Sherbrooke, checking out the most dazzlingly-decorated homes and businesses! You can follow a number of designated routes (to the sound of a Spotify playlist of Christmas songs) or design your own “sparkling” drive with the help of an interactive map.

After the tour, come back to the hotel and rest. More festive activities await you the following day!

A Relaxing Weekend at the Hotel

And finally, if, for you, the festive season brings lots of activity and stress, why not spend a weekend at the hotel to rest up before the celebrations begin?

You can tuck into an excellent meal at the Bistro 4 Saisons (just think, you won’t have to cook or wash the dishes!), enjoy a quiet evening in one of our comfy rooms, book a treatment (or massage) at Dôme de Morphée aesthetic spa or set off for a long, relaxing swim in our indoor/outdoor pool… There’s little doubt that taking time for yourself is a great way to get into the holiday spirit!

Cet article Seven Ways to Celebrate the Festive Season! est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

Espace 4 Saisons is decorated with the work of artists from Quebec (and elsewhere), and guests can enjoy it all over the property—greeting them on the exterior of the building when they arrive, in the quiet of their bedrooms, and around the many common areas. 

Here is some background on four of the artists who have lent their talents to our hotel, augmenting the decor with eye-catching colours and motifs! 

At Bistro 4 Saisons

Numerous photographs of the region have been hanging on the walls of Bistro 4 Saisons the last few months—images that offer an intimate look at our beautiful region. These photos from the past were primarily sourced from the rich collection that belongs to the Magog Historical Society. Others were shot by Mireille Fortier, spouse of Gilles Rouleau, the founder and former owner of Burger Pub.  

In Our Meeting Rooms

Deborah Davis is a local artist whose studio was once housed in the church that is now the OMG Resto in Sherbrooke. She uses engraving and mixed media (her favourite techniques) to create large canvases depicting sombre, detailed Nordic and Arctic scenes. Three hang in our Salle Orford meeting room.  

To follow her on Facebook, click here. 

French brothers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, who are based in Paris, are versatile artists whose work ranges from tiny decorative objects to entire sets of furniture and other home accessories. Unrivalled in their field, they work with some of the world’s best manufacturers to design furniture, lighting, tableware and so on, under their eponymous brand name. We’re lucky to have two of their creations in another or our meeting rooms, Salle Giroux.   

To follow them on Instagram, click here. 

Exterior Artwork

The bronze sculptures in the hotel parking lot, above the outdoor section of the swimming pool and inside the building were created by Matthieu Binette, a gifted local artist. He works in molten metal and drop by drop, forms it into elongated figures and birds, alive with movement.  

To follow him on Instagram, click here. 

You would like to discover all the works, from the smallest to the most imposing, that decorate the walls of the hotel? Book a stay at l’Espace 4 Saisons!

Cet article A Decor Enhanced by Art!  est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

The Eastern Townships is famous for its wonderful produce (and great dining experiences!) Below, we’ve designed an itinerary (using the Espace 4 Saisons resort as the jumping off point) for a perfect weekend of agritourism adventures!

Day 1 – Celebrate the grape harvest

September and October are the busiest months for vintners as they gather the grapes and convert them into wine, ready to be drunk the following year. A number of vineyards are open to the public and visitors can learn about the various stages involved in creating wine in Quebec.

A 10-minute drive from Espace 4 Saisons, wine-lovers can attend the annual Fête des Vendanges held at Pointe Merry in Magog during the first two weekends in September. (This year’s wine fest ends on September 10, 2023.) Not far from Magog is Le Cep d’Argent, a winery where visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings.

Even better is to spend the entire day exploring the popular Brome-Missisquoi Wine Route. When you drive from the hotel, the first winery you come to, 30 minutes later, is Léon Courville Vigneron. You can stroll through the vineyard, sample the results of Courville and his partner’s wine-making expertise and stock up on supplies before heading off to the next winery.

2023 marks the 20^th anniversary of the Wine Route and to celebrate this milestone there will be a range of onsite activities at several locations. Check out the website to see what’s happening where and when!

As the sun begins to sink heralding the end of a busy day, you will, no doubt, have worked up a healthy appetite! Back in the hotel at the Bistro 4 Saisons, you can tuck into a menu of seasonal fare, accompanied by Quebec wines, including those from Cep d’Argent, recalling your visit earlier in the day.

Day 2 – Pick your own fruit and vegetables

Well rested after a good night’s sleep at Espace 4 Saisons, you’ll be ready to once more take to the road – this time to pick your own fruit and vegetables to take back home!

First stop: Plantations Stéphan Perreault in Sherbrooke, 30-minutes from the hotel. Grab a wheelbarrow and go off to find the most beautiful, biggest pumpkin in the farm’s enormous field of orange-yellow fruit.  Pumpkins keep for a long time and they make a delicious addition to cookies, cakes and/or pies. While you’re at it, why not pick as big a load of ‘em as you can!

If you’re on your way (or way back) to Montreal, you’ll find a U-Pick place near the city of Granby – Verger Champêtre, where you can gather pumpkins and squash. You might be lucky enough to find that there are still some plums and pears at the farm, ripe for the picking.

Apples, of course, are the prime crop at this time of year. Throughout the Eastern Townships there is no shortage of orchards where, again, you can pick your own fruit.

One example is the Ferme Cidricole Équinoxe, which was given a makeover this past summer. As well as being able to pick your own apples, you can buy the beverages made on the premises – craft cider and apple-based spirits. If you’ve got some room left in the trunk of your car, well then, load it up!

As you wind up the weekend, your bags filled with tasty regional products, you’ll feel as if you’ve truly experienced some special moments in the tranquil setting of the spectacular landscapes of the Eastern Townships….

And don’t delay to reserve a room at Espace 4 Saisons! The fall is a busy season for hotels as well as for wineries and farmers and you certainly won’t want to miss the best of the fall colours…

Cet article The Harvest Season Is Upon Us! est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

Every evening, Patrick Grieve, our sommelier, shares his expertise with the clients at Bistro 4 Saisons. He is very knowledgeable about grape growing regions around the globe and can explain the many different varietals to our customers—all the better to suggest what wine would best appeal to their palates!

Here’s the lowdown from the man himself.

How did you become a sommelier?

I was a sales representative for 10 years during which time I travelled all over the United States. I visited 48 states and stayed in a lot of hotels and ate in lots of restaurants! I love good food… and wine.

At one point, I got fed up with being a “nomad”, so I started looking for a more stable way of life. That led me to a job as maître d’hôtel at Manoir Hovey. I had no background in the hospitality trade but alongside that job, I took courses on how to become a sommelier. I ended up staying at Manoir Hovey for 16 years, working my way up from being the Maître D to becoming the sommelier. Our wine list was 34 pages long, so, as you can imagine, I sampled many excellent wines!

How do you determine what a customer might like to drink?

First of all, it’s important to find out what they like. I can certainly suggest something but that has to be based on the customer’s preference i.e. a white, a red, a sparkling wine, a rosé and so on. Then you have to choose the right wine to match what the customer is eating. Food and wine pairing is the most important thing, and that’s what I specialize in!

How often do you change the Bistro’s wine list?

We go through our cellar supplies fairly quickly, and I get new orders every week. The majority of our wines are privately imported—vintages that can’t be found at the SAQ. I work closely with agents who introduce me to new blends and new producers, and they encourage me to taste all kinds of fine products. I choose some to add to my wine list, then introduce them to my customers.

Which wines are the most popular with the Bistro 4 Saisons clients?

Even though we offer a wide range, French and Italian wines are still the most popular. Very traditional. Classic. Always good!

What’s your opinion of Quebec wines?

We’re doing some interesting things with hybrid and native grape varietals. The Quebec whites are very good and so are the sparkling wines. It’s a pity Quebecers tend to drink sparkling wines only on special occasions when offering a toast. My own opinion is that we should drink them on any occasion!

Rapid-fire questions

What Quebec products do you always keep in your wine cellar?
Wines from Le Cep d’Argent vineyard, as well as ice wines and ice ciders.

What are your own favourite wines?
A white Burgundy from Meursault.

Your favourite grape variety?
Chardonnay.

Your favourite wine region?
Bordeaux and Côte du Rhône.

Cet article Sommelier Patrick Grieve Gives the Lowdown on the World of Wine est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

Now that you’ve stored your skis, snowshoes, and skates, it’s time to get out your walking boots. The summer season has finally arrived! Leave your luggage at Espace 4 Saisons and head for the hiking trails. The resort is a stone’s throw from Mont Orford National Park and only a couple of minutes from some of the Eastern Townships’ most beautiful outdoor attractions.

The following is a brief guide to enjoying a summer hike to the max! By preparing a few things in advance before you tackle the trails, you can concentrate on absorbing the beauty and tranquility of the natural surroundings.

What to Put In Your Backpack

Always make sure your water bottle remains topped up and that you take along plenty of nutritious snacks (pack more than you think you’ll need, just in case!) The important thing is to decide whether you’re going to take a long or a short walk. That’ll give you a rough idea of how much food and drink to prepare beforehand.

Although trees provide some shade when hiking through the woods, you should also cover yourself with sunscreen and wear a head covering and sunglasses. Packing a small bottle of insect repellent is a good idea as well!

Even if it’s hot, bring a windbreaker, preferably waterproof. In the mountains, the weather can change very quickly, and you could encounter a sudden downpour! If you have space left in your backpack, you might want to add a foil blanket to keep you warm in case of inclement weather.

A mini first aid kit could come in handy too. You can find one at a pharmacy or a sports/outdoor store, or alternately just create your own.

Before you head out, make sure that your cellphone is fully charged! Using it as a GPS uses up a lot of power. Otherwise, bring along a compass and a trail map.

Where to Walk

Mount Orford, which is very close to Espace 4 Saisons, is of course, one of the best places to hike in the Townships. Walking circuits, boardwalks, lookout points and breathtaking views await—the perfect “recipe” for a great outdoor experience. Check out the trail map and get ready for a wonderful outdoor adventure!   

Wanting to walk with the family? If so, head for the Marais de la Rivière-aux-Cerises in Magog, where you’ll find five kilometres of trails. Some are boardwalks, others are gravel, but they are all easy and can be negotiated by people of all ages and levels of ability. Incidentally, the Magog marsh is crossed by the longest stretch of raised boardwalk in Quebec—1.2km!

Interested in exploring other areas in the region that offer great hiking? Check out the Eastern Townships Tourism website, where you will find trails in the following regions: Orford, Bromont, Coaticook, Lac-Mégantic, Sherbrooke, Granby, and more…

Recharge Your Batteries

After a day of physical activity, you’ll probably want to rest your body to ensure that you aren’t left with aching muscles! First stop—the jacuzzi and indoor/outdoor swimming pool at Espace 4 Saisons. Unwind while taking in the splendid mountain view…

Feeling in need of pampering? Well then, head for the Dôme de Morphée aesthetic spa. It’s located within the hotel complex, and you can book a relaxing massage (your tight muscles will appreciate that!) or an exfoliating treatment. In next to no time, you’ll be ready to take to the trails once again!

Inspiration for Another Hike

Spectacular images of beautiful landscapes on social media are guaranteed to make you want to get back out in the fresh air! Check the Mel Bertrand, 4000hikes and Mont-Orford accounts for inspiration.

Cet article Tips for Summer Hiking est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

During the months of spring, the weather in Quebec is notoriously unpredictable. Sometimes the sun shines and there is a gentle breeze. At other times, the breezes are replaced by fierce gusts of wind, accompanied by driving rain. Those swings in the weather are, however, what mark the changing seasons, making them so memorable.

When the weather gets so bad that you don’t feel like being outdoors, you definitely need a plan B. Here are suggestions for attractions that you can enjoy inside, until the weather once more turns into a lovely spring day!

Within the Complex

Even if the weather turns awful, we can offer everything you need, inside the complex. There are many options!

You can take a dip in the pool, unwind in the whirlpool bath, exercise in the glass-enclosed gym or treat yourself to a massage at the Dôme de Morphée aesthetic spa.

Afterwards, you can head to the entertainment area for a game of pool or foosball. Alternatively, you could curl up with a good book and let your imagination roam…

Maybe it’s the time of day for an aperitif? In that case, head to Bistro 4 Saisons or Burger Pub for a glass of wine, a microbrewery beer, or a classic cocktail.

With the Family

Did you bring the kids with you? The following will help to burn off all their excess energy!

D-Vert | Magog

You’ll love this 16,000-square-foot sports complex with its collection of climbing walls. They’re designed for all ages and levels of ability—from small fry (in the family area) to teenagers. Mom and Dad can give it a go too!

©D-Vert

Motion Park | Granby

Do your children like to imagine that they’re little ninjas? Let their fantasies run riot as they exercise their bodies at Motion Park. They can climb, jump and test their strength, balance and agility, during a parkour activity and by following a Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course. Young and old can enjoy the facilities at this sports centre, and there’s even an area designed for mini ninjas (aged 3-6).

Musée de la nature et des sciences | Sherbrooke

The Museum of Nature and Science (MNA2) runs a series of fascinating exhibitions that change with the seasons. An upcoming show entitled “It’s Circus Time” features memorabilia from this most colourful and exciting of artistic endeavours. The exhibition highlights the history of the circus arts in Quebec, including the world-famous Cirque du Soleil—sure to be particularly popular with small fry!

Cinéma Magog

Going to the movies is always a good idea in inclement weather! Load up on popcorn and catch the latest Hollywood blockbuster.

As a Couple or With Friends

Some activities are more enjoyable when you share them with other, like-minded folk…

Mont VR Sherbrooke

High-tech entertainment through virtual reality (VR) is on offer at this centre in downtown Sherbrooke, with its huge selection of computerized games. Choose your game and pay by the hour.

The wine, cheese and cider routes…

Nasty weather may not entice you to actually tour a vineyard, but you can always drop by a winery boutique. Stock up on wine, cheese, and other local and regional produce. The people manning the counter will be happy to chat, especially on a dull, grey day.

Go shopping

A dreary day presents the perfect opportunity to shop ‘til you drop! After filling up the trunk with gourmet products, do the rounds of our many talented artisans. At their boutiques and studios (interesting in and of themselves), you’ll find personal care products, clothing, decorative items, and handcrafted accessories.

Live entertainment at the Vieux Clocher | Magog

Check the lineup of entertainers at this theatre in downtown Magog, housed in a former church. You may well find that your favourite band, singer, or stand-up comic is performing while you’re in the region.

On Your Own

Sometimes, it’s good to go somewhere on your own! You can explore a place by yourself, at your own pace and choose the things you want to see and do, without having to consider other people…

Museums

Musée international d’art naïf de Magog and Galerie Jeannine Blais (North Hatley) both showcase “naive” art, while Musée des beaux-arts, Sherbrooke’s Fine Arts Museum, houses a comprehensive collection of local and regional artists. The exhibits in any one of these three museums will keep you browsing for hours, allowing you to examine (and appreciate!) the finer details of the artwork.

Dôme de Morphée aesthetic spa

Should you opt for a massage or a facial? It doesn’t really matter what you choose! The important thing is to enjoy some “me” time by allowing yourself to be pampered by expert wellbeing therapists.

©Dôme de Morphée

Saint-Benoît-du-Lac abbey

If there is one place that lends itself to a visit on your own more than anywhere else, this Benedictine monastery fits the bill! Wander the corridor lined with interpretive plaques explaining the life of the monks and the Order of St. Benedict. The building itself, embellished with unique architectural designs, is extraordinary and at the monastery store, you can buy food products and memorabilia.

Grange du parfumeur | Magog

Alexandra Bach (Bachand) is a perfumer par excellence! She prides herself in being a practitioner of the ancient craft of perfume making and she will suggest just the right scent for you—an aroma that will remind you of her magical skills every time you wear it!

Given this great choice of activities that we outline above, don’t they almost make you long for a rainy day?

Cet article What to Do on Rainy Days est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.

At Bistro 4 Saisons, we specialize in simple, refined fare, influenced strongly by French cuisine.

So what exactly do we mean by French cuisine? Croissants, baguettes, wine and cheese to be sure, but besides those, what should you stock your pantry with to create the kind of dishes associated with France?

The following five ingredients—typically found in the average French kitchen—are a good start!

Dijon Mustard

We’re not talking about the kind of mustard on a hot dog served at a baseball stadium. The French go for Dijon mustard, an altogether darker, tastier and more versatile ingredient. Add a spoonful or two to a salad dressing, a sauce, or a dip to create a tangy seasoning bursting with flavour! Dijon mustard enhances a sandwich too.

Fleur de Sel

Nearly everybody has salt in their pantry, but fleur de sel is very different from run-of-the-mill table salt. Crunchier than fine sea salt, fleur de sel is a “finishing salt”, sprinkled on food just before serving.

Where to find it? You can source something similar from Sel Saint-Laurent, the first company in Quebec to produce salt flakes from the sea. Harvested from the Upper North Shore region of the St. Lawrence River, this refined, crunchy salt can be used in the same manner as fleur de sel.

©Sel Saint-Laurent

Crème Fraîche

To thicken a sauce, vinaigrette or stew, the French love to add a large spoonful of fresh cream. Crème fraîche can also be used as a topping for a fruit salad or a chocolate cake, as well as the “secret” ingredient for creating the perfect quiche or omelette!

Herbes de Provence

French dishes give off wonderful aromas, thanks to the liberal use of fresh and/or dried herbs. One of the most popular blends is probably the famous Herbes de Provence. You can buy the mix, ready-made, at the grocery store or put one together yourself. Herbs from your vegetable garden—thyme, oregano, rosemary, savory—can be dried and added to soups, vinaigrettes, marinades, etc.

Butter

Preferably salted butter! The French love butter and they slather it on baguettes and sandwiches. Take the popular jambon-beurre. Basically, it’s just a baguette sliced open, spread with butter and slices of ham… Simple as that!

These five ingredients are by no means an exhaustive list. There are lots of other popular foods associated with French cuisine—truffles, shallots, pickles, plain yogourt (to name a few).

Have you worked up an appetite now? If so, we’ll be happy to welcome you to Bistro 4 Saisons! We’ll take you on a culinary journey to France, through our tasty menu and our wine list featuring a number of French vintages.

Cet article French Cuisine: 5 Must-Have Ingredients! est apparu en premier sur Espace 4 saisons.