Few skiers and riders from New England realize they can experience the French culture by taking a relatively quick jaunt across the Vermont border into the rolling hills and mountains of southern Québec.

The Eastern Townships' marketing efforts would have you believe that the four ski areas in the region—Mont Orford, Mont Sutton, Bromont and Owl's Head—are right next door to each other, but in reality they are anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes away from each other on dry roads. Don't let that deter you, this is a beautiful region for a vacation and we don't think you'll be disappointed. As with any resort in Québec, the French-Canadian culture is everywhere: That means fabulous food, first-rate service, French spoken all around you and an overall feeling of vacationing in France.

The Eastern Townships comprise dozens of quaint little towns ripe with history, so try to find time to explore the region in your car. The original residents were Abenaki Indians, and the names they gave to places and bodies of water remain, including Memphremagog, the lake that serves as a centerpiece to the region’s winter resorts. Eventually Canada became a British colony and, not surprisingly, loyalists from the American Revolution fled to Québec, soon to be followed by other Americans looking for cheap land. In the 1850s that the French-speaking residents arrived, and by the early 1900s most of the population was Francophone.

That said, each resort has a different feel and flavor. Mont Orford, Mont Sutton and Bromont are dominated by the French experience (in fact, Bromont is rather intimidating because the resort’s signs don’t have an accompanying English translation, while Sutton and Orford are much more accommodating). On the other hand, at Owl’s Head everyone speaks English and switches to French if necessary.

If you’re planning to visit all the areas, consider the interchangeable Townships Ski Ticket. It’s a multiday ticket for two to five days, valid at Mont Sutton, Mont Orford, Owl’s Head and Bromont. Reserve when booking your lodging or purchase at any of the participating resorts.

Please make note of the different area codes.

Please make note of the different area codes. Adventurous intermediates and better who enjoy the challenging terrain at Mont Orford and Mont Sutton should consider spending a day at nearby Jay Peak Resort, Vt.