Interview with Dominique Houle
Your favorites in the region
The harvest in our vineyards and orchards. I am fortunate to live on the Wine Route and to be surrounded by orchards. There is nothing like an orchard in bloom in May or the spectacle of the grape and apple harvest in the fall. Colors, smells and light make an extraordinary mix to feed all our senses.
The activities of our wineries are full of creativity. We are spoiled for choice for a great weekend.
Mount Sutton and Mount Orford offer us the most beautiful natural spectacles, in autumn and spring as well as in winter, with their striking colors and hypnotizing whites.
What do you like about the area?
What I like about my region is above all its tranquility and the beauty of the landscape. The diversity of colors in spring and fall. The immense diversity of its market gardeners and its artists, painters, weavers or sculptors. The generosity of its inhabitants, who make this region a place where you feel welcome.
What is your favorite place in the Eastern Townships? Describe what you like.
I believe that living in the Eastern Townships is a privilege. In 1993, I fell in love with a very old Shaker style house in Dunham that needed a lot of renovation. It was a lifetime project that I wouldn’t have changed for the world. We have 11 acres, three quarters of which are wooded. This wood is, by far, my favorite place in the Eastern Townships. Even after 20 years, I still make wonderful discoveries during my walks. I must admit that the whole side of Orford and Ayer’s Cliff is breathtaking! I always enjoy a few hours of respite and contemplation when I deliver my wedding arrangements and bouquets to Hovey Manor. This place is worthy of the Relais & Châteaux.
Do you have a second one to mention?
I love the epicurean stores in Dunham and Sutton, such as La Rumeur Affamée, for the quality and variety of their products and the customer service that is always impeccable. Every visit is a discovery!
Do you know of a well-kept treasure in the Cantons that deserves to be known?
Soon, Frelighsburg will have a Christmas Market, which you should not miss!
In this same village, there is a weaver who does wonders and who deserves to be known: La Fibre et Moi. All her creations are sensual, refined, beautiful and of great quality.
What is your favorite restaurant or regional product in the Townships?
I must admit that the Lyvano restaurant, also in Frelighsburg, with its terrace overlooking the river, is a discovery for lovers of good food. Great for the holidays!
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