Canada
In the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, where the hills slope down to the shores of Lake Memphremagog, stands one of Quebec’s most unique mountains. With over fifty years of history, this all-season resort – an hour and a half from Montreal and 30 minutes from Magog – combines a striking vertical drop, an exceptional natural setting and an authenticity that sets it apart from the continent’s large, overcrowded resorts.
Its slopes wind down towards the lake, with views stretching as far as the Green Mountains of Vermont, creating one of the most photogenic ski scenes in Canada.
Owl’s Head isn’t just about skiing: in winter, its 50 runs with a vertical drop of 540 metres – the fifth largest in Quebec – cater to all ability levels. In summer, the golf course, marina, private beach and hiking trails make it a first-class lakeside resort. And whatever the season, the region’s vineyards, cider houses, microbreweries and artisanal cheese dairies round off an experience that goes far beyond the snow.
The ski slopes at Owl’s Head
With 50 runs, 125 acres of skiable terrain and the fifth-highest vertical drop in Quebec (540 m), Owl’s Head surprises those who arrive expecting a modest resort. Its five chairlifts and one conveyor belt have a capacity of 14,400 skiers per hour. The ski area features 3 snowparks, a half-pipe, glade sections and ski touring routes, with an artificial snowmaking system covering over 80% of the slopes. The scenery overlooking Lake Memphremagog and the Vermont mountains makes every run a unique visual experience.
The Owl’s Head ski resort is committed to sustainable development
Lake Memphremagog is a fragile ecosystem, the conservation of which is a priority for the resort. At a regional level, the Eastern Townships are a benchmark for responsible tourism in Quebec: the Brome-Missisquoi Wine Route—the province’s first wine route—and the microbrewery and cheese farm tours promote the local economy and the consumption of locally sourced produce. The L’Est Go pass combines skiing on four of the region’s mountains with visits to local producers, promoting a more circular form of tourism that is deeply rooted in the local area.
Unforgettable experiences at Owl’s Head
Snowshoeing through the boreal forests, fat biking on the snow, family snow tubing and cross-country skiing trips by the lake are just some of the most popular off-piste activities. The chalet’s restaurant and bar, with unobstructed views of the lake, are the natural meeting place as evening falls. And the surrounding area is perfect for exploring: the vineyards of Brome-Missisquoi, the artisanal cider houses, microbreweries and cheese dairies of the Eastern Townships offer tastings and culinary experiences that make your stay so much more than a conventional skiing break.
Where to stay in Owl’s Head
The suites at the Hôtel du Hibou are located on the top floor of the main chalet, with direct access to the slopes, a café, a restaurant and equipment hire. The Hotel MTN Haus, with its contemporary design and mountain atmosphere, is the other option right at the foot of the slopes. For a more independent stay, the areas around Mansonville and Potton offer private chalets, gîtes and charming bed & breakfasts. Magog, 30 minutes away, expands the choice with larger establishments by the lake.
Owl’s Head station in summer
The 2 km of private lakeside on Lake Memphremagog is the property’s main summer attraction. The marina is the starting point for sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and boat trips. The private beach at the foot of the mountain is perfect for families. The 18-hole golf course — considered one of the best in Eastern Canada — combines technical challenges with panoramic views of the lake and Vermont. Hiking along the hillsides and the spectacle of the autumn foliage, when the deciduous forest bursts into colour, make the Eastern Townships one of the most photographed destinations in North America.
Skiing at Owl’s Head: the resort’s highlights
540 metres of vertical drop, 50 runs, 3 snowparks, glades and ski touring, all set against the backdrop of Lake Memphremagog. Owl’s Head offers a comprehensive range of technical features whilst remaining peaceful and uncrowded. Its proximity to Montreal, the culinary culture of the Eastern Townships and a year-round offering that includes golf, the lake and hiking make this resort a destination that, once discovered, is hard to forget.
