Take your pick: adrenaline packed or slow and contemplative?
Published on May 30, 2024
Situated at the crossroads of three bike paths, Waterloo is the ideal starting point for getting around on two wheels in all directions and for as many kilometres we wish to pedal. Combine this with a superb lake, plenty of green spaces, a dynamic downtown Coeur Villageois, a vibrant cultural scene and a panoply of outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the summer. With everything this surprising little town has to offer, whether you’re a cyclist or not, you’ll want to stay longer. You’ll be amazed by all the effervescence you’ll find here! Waterloo’s residents love nature as much as they do entertainment, culture, good food and simply having a good time.
Day cyclists (and those looking for longer stays) can choose from a wide range of routes in and around Waterloo. In fact, the town itself has plenty of beautiful trails. Take the time to explore Artria Park, a superb French-style garden featuring monumental sculptures. Head out on L’Estriade, to admire the 60 works of art on this artistic route that will take you as far as Granby or the Parc National de la Yamaska. You could also take on the Montagnarde bike path to join the Véloroute gourmande, or the Campagnarde and cycle all the way to Magog.
Would you like to experience a really unique paved circuit? Waterloo has a nationally renowned pumptrack, accessible free of charge, with tracks for all levels, for small and tall alike, from beginners to experts.
Whether you’re looking to refresh yourself and splash about in the water games or you’d like to enjoy other nautical activities, drive out to the municipal beach, where you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and pedal boats. There’s also a boat washing station, a playground for toddlers, picnic tables, docks for dipping your toes in the water and three beach volleyball courts. A well-kept secret: the lake has some of the most beautiful sunsets in the Townships!
Are you running out of breath with all these options? Take on the trails at an easier pace by renting an electric bike for the day.
Although cycling is at the top of the agenda in Waterloo, the town is bustling with a whole range of other activities, and in summer, things really get moving! A free open-air concert here, a major art symposium in the park there, a rowing, tennis and soccer tournaments and to top it all off, a beer festival in September. The kind of effervescence that makes Waterloo the ideal place to enjoy a vibrant summer!
The town centre’s authentic businesses also reflect its dynamic spirit. From a friendly café/secondhand shop to an elegant wine bar, as well as a microbrewery concocting farmhouse beers, unique boutiques and restaurants serving inspired dishes. Indeed, downtown Waterloo is teeming with delightful venues to explore. In fact, the young entrepreneurs who’ve taken the town by storm in recent years have shown remarkable creativity by staging a whole array of festive events: DJs on the terrace, themed evenings, special menus, pop-ups, street sales, etc.
History buffs can discover the town’s Anglo-Saxon heritage, with its superb buildings, railway museum and choice of 3 podcasts to accompany them.
It’s impossible to feel bored in Waterloo! To really experience the Waterloo vibe, you need an overnight stay (perhaps two or three)! And luckily, there’s no shortage of accommodation options here. From ancestral manor homes, to B&Bs in historic residences, to nearby campgrounds, there’s something for everyone. Also, you’ll be delighted to know that all the attractions are within walking or cycling distance of any of the town’s lodging offers (except for some of the outlying campgrounds). When you stay here, you won’t need a car to explore the town!
For vanlife enthusiasts: two spaces are available free of charge for overnight stays for recreational vehicles of up to 21 feet in length. No reservations required, it’s a first-come, first-served proposition. The location is ideal: close to the tourism information building, so right in the heart of the city centre, but in the enchanting setting of the Parc Denise-Lauzière, with the Artria sculptures and the Yamaska River as a backdrop. An absolute must!
This summer, let Waterloo surprise you!
Nature, sports and outdoor activities
Want to Enjoy a Swim in the Townships? Right This Way!
