DESTINATION

Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke is now home to two universities: Bishop's University and the University of Sherbrooke. The latter school has six campuses, three of which are in Sherbrooke.

Stretching through downtown Sherbrooke is the Cité des Rivières, a network of pedestrian walkways connecting businesses, cultural sites and recreational centers. Visitors traversing the Esplanade Frontenac discover merchants and eateries. On rues Alexandre, Bowen, Dufferin, Frontenac and Wellington, passersby gaze at buildings adorned with vibrant murals depicting Sherbrooke's history. Also adding color to the city is a modern sculpture at Place des Moulins by Montréal artist and architect Melvin Charney.

A number of recreational activities are afforded in Sherbrooke, including canoeing, golf and hiking. Surrounding a picturesque lake is the 3.5-kilometre (2-mi.) Promenade du Lac-des-Nations. In summer visitors can walk, skate or bicycle along the path, past fountains and scenic lookout points. In winter an ice-skating rink is on the north end of the lake. Tubing as well as downhill and cross-country skiing also can be enjoyed in the area.

Next to the lake, a restored train station at 720 rue Minto houses the Station Market (Marché de la Gare). On weekends during the summer an outdoor farmers market is added.

Additionally Sherbrooke plays host to a number of annual summer events, including The Lac des Nations Festival (La Fête du Lac des Nations), a spectacular fireworks competition held in July. In August the Traditions of the World Festival (Festival des traditions du monde) offers a variety of activities and live entertainment. Throughout the summer, more than 100 free outdoor concerts are staged across Sherbrooke.