Quebec- On the Trail of Louise Penny
Abbaye de Saint-Benoit du Lac
Exploring the Epic Sites That Created the Backdrop to
Louise Penny’s Captivating Novels
•
September 23-25, 2026
October 7-9, 2026
October 14-16, 2026
October 21-23, 2026
Award-winning Canadian author Louise Penny has captivated the world with her compelling mystery novels set primarily in the Eastern Townships of Quebec. Her wildly popular books from the Three Pines series have consistently topped the New York Times bestseller lists and have been translated into 29 languages, selling more than 10 million copies worldwide. Her recent collaboration co-authoring State of Terror with Hillary Rodham Clinton has cemented her as one of the mystery genre’s all-time greats, and this spring Travac wants to take you to the centre of her universe as we visit the idyllic real-life locations that inspire the settings to her novels.
Travac’s special three-day excursion will take you into the heart of the Eastern Townships and to the locations that have been immortalized by Penny and her brilliantly fashioned characters. We will visit the Victorian village of Knowlton- the direct inspiration for Penny’s fictional village of Three Pines- with stops at Brome Lake Books and the Brome County Historical Society Museum where Jane’s painting from Still Life is on display. Your tour will continue with visits to many sites that are cherished parts of the fabric woven in Louise Penny’s novels, including (among others) Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac (the inspiration for Saint-Gilbert-Entre-les-Loups Abbey in A Beautiful Mystery), old Hadley House, and of course, Sarah’s Boulangerie. We will also make stops at Elderberry Farm, and Sherbrooke’s famous murals.
Travac’s fabulous Louise Penny adventure will be very popular- early booking is essential. Join us as we uncover the important settings that make Penny’s novels so endearing and the secrets behind them!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we depart Ottawa and travel toward Quebec’s picturesque Eastern Townships. Our first stop is Vitality Elderberry Farm in Lac-Brome, where we will enjoy a tasting of their locally grown elderberry products.
We then continue to Knowlton, a charming village known for its pastoral beauty and for inspiring Louise Penny’s fictional town of Three Pines. While in Knowlton, we will visit Brome Lake Books, followed by a short walk to the Brome County Historical Society Museum. After your included lunch, we travel to an award-winning winery just outside of Magog, renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines. (L)
Day 2
We will begin our day in Sherbrooke with a guided tour of the town and its famous murals. After your included lunch, we will visit La Station Fromagerie, winner of several regional, provincial, and national awards for their cheese made from organic raw cow milk. Our last stop is Georgeville, where you can visit the General Store, the inspiration for Mr. Belliveau’s General Store, and St George’s Church, inspiration for St Thomas Church. You will also see the old Mansion House, the basis of “Hadley House” which figures prominently in Penny’s novel A Fatal Grace. (B, L)
Day 3
Our final day begins with a journey to Sutton. On our way, we will stop at Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac. This abbey was the inspiration for Saint-Gilbert-Entre-les-Loups Abbey in A Beautiful Mystery. The Benedictine monks of the Saint-Benoit-du-Lac abbey are famous for and have been making cheeses since 1943. Before we bid farewell to the world of Three Pines, you will also have a chance to visit the delicatessen (La Rumeur Affamée) on which Sarah’s Boulangerie was based. (B)
We hope you will enjoy this tour into the world created by Louise Penny in her many Three Pines novels.
Itinerary subject to change.
Ontario- Christmas Season in Niagara and St. Jacobs (November 13 departure)
November 13-17, 2026
5 days, 4 nights
For our November 24-28 tour, please click here.
Join Travac as we embark on an unforgettable adventure to southern Ontario to celebrate the holiday season. Begin with Niagara Falls where you will experience the magic of Niagara’s winter while taking a coach tour through the Festival of Lights at night. Enjoy a free afternoon in Niagara-on-the-lake to explore and shop on your own. Then travel to St. Jacobs to experience “St Jacobs Sparkles” where you will be immersed in a village enveloped in holiday spirit. Shop into the night amidst thousands of twinkling lights, indulge in delicious cuisine, and enjoy the old-fashioned charm of St Jacobs and all that Sparkles has to offer. You will also have the opportunity to visit the St Jacobs Market.
This fabulous holiday includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, 2 nights accommodation at the Hilton Niagara Falls, 2 nights’ accommodation at the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs, breakfast daily, evening sightseeing of the Festival of Lights, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we’ll depart from Ottawa and begin our journey to St. Jacobs. Along the way, we’ll make stops for lunch and rest breaks before arriving in the late afternoon. After checking into the hotel, the evening is yours to relax, enjoy dinner, or experience the festive Sparkles holiday event in the village of St. Jacobs, evening shuttle service will be available.
Hotel for the next 2 nights – Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs or similar
Day 2
Start your day with an included breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a full day at leisure in Waterloo and St. Jacobs. Your Travac Tours Director will be happy to offer suggested activities. The famous St. Jacobs Market is within walking distance of the hotel, allowing you to browse its many vendors and local specialties. Today also brings another opportunity to experience the enchanting “Sparkles” holiday event with shuttle service.
(B)
Day 3
After an included breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and travel to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to discover the picturesque town known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and historic streets. This afternoon, you’ll attend a matinee performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Shaw Festival.
A listening device is offered at no additional cost; please request should you require one.
1:00pm – Performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella.
Following the performance, we’ll travel to Niagara Falls and check in to our hotel. Enjoy leisure time before rejoining the group for a scenic evening drive to experience the spectacular Niagara Festival of Lights.
Hotel for the next 2 nights – Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview or similar
(B)
Day 4
Following breakfast, enjoy another day at leisure to explore Niagara Falls or return to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Your Travac Tours Director will be available with recommendations and will advise the group of the shuttle schedule between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake.
(B)
Day 5
After breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and begin our journey home to Ottawa. We’ll make comfort and lunch stops along the way before arriving back in the evening.
(B)
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs or similar
Hotel Address
55 Benjamin RdWaterloo, ON
N2V 0C6
(519) 514-0090
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel or similar
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, ON
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Québec City German Christmas Market
November 18-20, 2026
November 25-27, 2026
December 2-4, 2026
December 9-11, 2026
Québec City comes alive in the winter with the very best the holiday season has to offer. Travac would love to take you to Québec City to celebrate and enjoy its famous German Christmas Market, nestled right in the heart of the walled city. The market is designed to recreate as closely as possible the atmosphere of the big European Christmas markets. With its festive atmosphere, one-of-a-kind décor, and vibrant holiday spirit, the Québec City German Christmas Market is truly an exceptional multi-sensory experience you don’t want to miss!
Your Québec holiday includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, accommodation in the heart of Old Quebec, a city tour, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Our packages to the Québec City German Christmas Market sold out fast last winter- early booking is your best guarantee of joining this fabulous escape!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we will depart for Québec. Upon our arrival, we will embark on a tour of this beautiful and historic city. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy Old Québec at your leisure. Your Travac Tours Director will have plenty of suggestions on how to make the most of your time in the city.
Day 2
The Québec City German Christmas Market is one of the highest regarded festivals of its type in North America. The city comes alive alongside the market, with its historic streets beautifully decorated and its shops and restaurants offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Your day will be free to enjoy the Québec City German Christmas Market at your leisure, located just steps from your hotel.
Day 3
You will have the early morning to again amble through the streets of Old Québec before departing for your drive back home to Ottawa in the late morning. Your Travac Tours Director will advise you of your departure time.
Itinerary and hotel are subject to change.
British Columbia- Beautiful Kelowna and the Okanagan Wine Valley- June departure
June 3 – 9, 2026
Join Travac on this incredible escape to explore the beautiful Okanagan Valley Wine region and Kelowna! An eclectic mix of spectacular mountains, sunny laid-back city life, lakeshore parks with incredible waterfronts, and lush vistas of rolling hills, orchards, and vineyards make spending time in Kelowna’s surroundings an ideal vacation.
Travac’s Okanagan adventure will take you deep into the heart of wine country. You’ll be accommodated at the downtown Royal Anne Hotel, enjoy a continental breakfast each day, visit 4 wineries that will include tastings at some of the most acclaimed wineries that the Okanagan Valley has to offer.
The Okanagan Valley Wine region is Canada’s second largest wine producing area and it accounts for more than 80% of BC’s wine production. Your days will be filled with local attractions and wine tastings, even a lunch at a local winery. The beauty and taste of this area will leave you wanting to return – join us this spring to experience one of Canada’s regional crown jewels!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Today we will Depart Ottawa for our flights to Kelowna.
Upon arrival in Kelowna, we will board our private coach and make our way to our hotel in Osoyoos. Along the way, we will stop in Oliver, also known as “The Wine District,” for lunch and optional wine tastings ($). This region is home to multiple wineries and a variety of restaurants to choose from.
We will then continue on to the hotel, where check-in will be facilitated by your Travac Tours Director.
Hotel for the next 4 nights: Watermark Beach Hotel, Osoyoos
Day 2
After breakfast, we will visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos for a guided tour, offering insight into the unique ecology and Indigenous heritage of the area. Following lunch (on your own), we’ll visit a local winery for our first tasting of the day. Later, we’ll return to Osoyoos for another winery visit featuring tastings and a selection of appetizers. (B)
Day 3
This morning is at your leisure to explore Osoyoos. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to a local winery for tastings and to soak in the lovely scenery. Lunch is included today. (B, L)
Day 4
Day 5
This morning we will depart Osoyoos and travel north to Summerland, notable for its breathtaking scenery. We’ll visit the Ornamental Gardens, a 6-hectare botanical garden site established by Agriculture Canada in 1916. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a ride on the historic Kettle Valley Steam Railway, followed by an included lunch. Enjoy stunning views of Okanagan Lake, Giant’s Head Mountain, and the Trout Creek Trestle bridge. The evening will be at your leisure to explore the area. (B, L)
Hotel for the next 2 nights: Royal Anne Hotel, Kelowna.
Day 6
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a 2-hour walking tour of Kelowna with a knowledgeable local guide. You’ll have free time for lunch on your own ($) and to explore downtown Kelowna at your leisure in the afternoon. Your Travac Tours Director will offer optional afternoon activities ($). (B)
Day 7
Early this morning we will return to Ottawa. Your Travac Tours director will keep you informed of your flight details.
Itinerary and hotels subject to change.
Hotel Information
Watermark Beach Hotel
Hotel Address
15 Park PlOsoyoos, BC
V0H 1V0
(250) 495-5500
Royal Anne Hotel
Hotel Address
348 Bernard AveKelowna, BC
V1Y 6N5
(250) 763-2277
British Columbia- Victoria Independent Stay Put Vacation at the Parkside
February 3 – March 3, 2026
March 3 – April 2, 2026
The coastal serenity that awaits you in British Columbia’s capital city is unlike any other. Victoria’s mild climate and walkable city limits make this island oasis an ideal winter getaway. Nicknamed “the garden city” for good reason, Victoria’s radiant west-coast terrain is home to some of Canada’s most acclaimed gardens and parks. Whether exploring Victoria’s quaint downtown core, taking an historical walking tour, spotting a whale, or indulging in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding beaches and rainforests, there is no shortage of adventure to experience at your own pace.
Travac’s marvelous winter escape to Victoria includes accommodation at the Parkside Hotel and Spa located in the heart of the city and within walking distance to Beacon Hill Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, Ogden Point, and several neighbourhood amenities.
Refresh and recharge this winter with Travac in the city of wide-open spaces. Whether you’d like to experience the vibrant offerings of a cultural centre within a safe and physically-distanced environment, indulge in the beauty of Victoria’s acclaimed gardens and natural surroundings, or simply relax in the blissful tranquility of the Pacific coast, this holiday has it all. Book early to avoid disappointment!
The Sunken Garden at Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site
Hotel images (luxury suite, Parkside Hotel and Spa):
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart from Ottawa Airport
You will board your connecting flight from Ottawa to Victoria.
On arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel has been arranged (details to follow). The check-in time at the hotel is 4:00pm.
Day 2 - 28 (Feb departure) or 2 - 30 (March departure)
Victoria
Free time to do as you wish in the capital of “Beautiful British Columbia”. Enjoy the temperate climate, natural beauty, gardens, parks, and heritage charm that Victoria has to offer. Spend time exploring the beaches, museums, heritage, and historic buildings at your own pace. Visit the local distilleries, breweries, and vineyards. There is so much to see and do! The city of Victoria has excellent local transportation, ferry services as well as beautiful bike paths…the choice is yours. Travac will provide you with listings of restaurants and attractions. The hotel front desk staff will be happy to assist you with any questions.
Day 29 (Feb departure) or 31 (March departure)
Depart Victoria
Check-out time at the hotel is 11:00am. Today, you will be transferred from the hotel to the airport.
You will board your connecting flight from Victoria to Ottawa.
*Airline Schedules are subject to change; you will be advised of the current schedule at time of booking*
Hotel Information
Parkside Hotel & Spa
Hotel Address
810 Humboldt StVictoria, BC
V8V 5B1
(250) 940-1200
Ontario- Agawa & Group of Seven Experience
AN ARTISTIC TRIP ON THE RAILS THEY RODE
See what they saw and capture your own moment in Algoma!
October 6-10, 2026
Follow in the footsteps of Canada’s most iconic landscape painters as you explore the rugged scenery that inspired the legendary Group of Seven! This tour will first take you to Toronto to visit the AGO where you will have the opportunity to see works by the Group of Seven and other notable Canadian artists. We will then depart for Sault Ste Marie board the legendary Algoma Central Railway for a breathtaking 114-mile journey into the wild heart of the Canadian Shield, visit the Art Gallery of Algoma to enjoy Canadian art, and visit Sudbury before our return to Ottawa.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning we will Depart Ottawa for Toronto, making a stop for food and a washroom break en route. Anticipate arriving in Toronto by early afternoon, where we will journey into the heart of Canadian art at the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto—home to stunning works by the Group of Seven and other iconic Canadian artists. After soaking in the creative energy, we will make our way to our hotel in Markham for the night. Your Travac Tours Director will be happy to recommend dinner options nearby.
Overnight – Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre (or similar)
Day 2
This morning, fuel up with your included breakfast before we begin our scenic drive north to Sault Ste. Marie. We will rest along the way, giving you the opportunity to stretch and grab some food. You can expect to arrive in the evening and enjoy a relaxed night.
Overnight – Sault Ste. Marie, Holiday Inn Express (or similar)
Day 3
Today promises to be a highlight of the tour! After breakfast, board the legendary Algoma Central Railway for a breathtaking 114-mile journey into the wild heart of the Canadian Shield. As you travel north, marvel at the dramatic scenery—towering trees, rugged hills, and glistening lakes—all while enjoying your included boxed lunch onboard. At the Agawa Canyon, step off the train and take in the stunning lookout views perfect for photos or a quiet moment in nature. Return to Sault Ste. Marie by evening, just in time for dinner.
Overnight – Sault Ste Marie, Holiday Inn Express (or similar)
Day 4
Start your morning with a visit to the Art Gallery of Algoma, where a guided tour and an included lunch await. The AGA is a cultural gem located in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, right on the banks of the St. Mary’s River. It’s a small but vibrant gallery that showcases Canadian and Indigenous art, with a special emphasis on artists from Northern Ontario.
Then we’re off to Sudbury—but not without a photo op at the iconic Big Nickel, a monument celebrating Canada’s mining heritage. Wrap up your evening at your leisure—plenty of dining options are nearby.
Overnight – Sudbury, Hilton Garden Inn (or similar)
Day 5
Before we head home, we will visit the renowned Science North Museum, housed in its distinctive snowflake-shaped buildings. Interactive exhibits and fascinating stories bring the science and spirit of Northern Ontario to life. Whether you’re curious about local wildlife, northern lights, or geology, there’s something to spark everyone’s imagination. After our visit, we begin our journey back to Ottawa, arriving in the evening with memories of art, nature, and discovery fresh in your mind.
*Itinerary and hotels are subject to change*
Hotel Information
Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre or similar
Hotel Address
8500 Warden AveMarkham, ON
L6G 1A5
+1 905-470-8500
Sault Ste. Marie, Holiday Inn Express or similar
Hotel Address
320 Bay StreetSault Ste Marie, ON
P6A 1X1
(705) 759-8200
Sudbury, Hilton Garden Inn or similar
Hotel Address
475 Barry Downe RdSudbury, ON
P3A 3T4
+1 705-586-3001
Maritimes- Halifax: Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo
June 30- July 5, 2026
Travac Tours would like to invite you to join us as we travel to Halifax for the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo!
The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is a show inspired by Military Tattoos given by military bands and display teams.
The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is unique among other Tattoos in the world in that it is more theatrical in nature with a mixture of both military and civilian performers.
It takes place in the Scotiabank Centre’s hockey arena, a venue that, to some degree, resembles a traditional theatre in the round. The show is heavily costumed and intensively rehearsed with technical staff, choreographers, assistant directors, wardrobe staff and designers as part of the production team, which also sets it apart from traditional Tattoos.
This spectacle is one of the highlights of a Nova Scotia summer.
Travac’s visit to the Tattoo includes round trip airfare from Ottawa to Halifax; 5 nights’ accommodation at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront; a tour of Halifax including visits to Mahone Bay, Lunenburg, and Peggy’s Cove; reserved seating at the Royal International Tattoo; free time in Halifax, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Space is limed to 40 persons.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning you will depart for Halifax. Upon your arrival in Halifax you will be transferred to your hotel. The balance of your day will be free to explore Halifax on your own. From your hotel it is an easy walk to some of the fine restaurants and shops that are in the area.
Day 2
Your day is completely free to wander among the many sites that attract people to Halifax. Your tour director will have plenty of ideas on how to spend your day.
Day 3
Your day will begin with a professionally guided tour of Halifax, noting attractions from iconic lighthouses to urban gardens, stunning galleries and museums and a waterfront science centre. Continuing the tour, you’ll move on to Mahone Bay, Lunenberg, and Peggy’s Cove. Located on Nova Scotia’s spectacular South Shore, Mahone Bay was recently named one of Canada’s top ten most beautiful towns by culturetrip.com. Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site – with its narrow streets and unique architecture – is the home port of the Bluenose II. This graceful ship is a replica of the original fishing boat. Your final stop before heading back to Halifax will be Peggy’s Cove. Famous for its lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove is one of the most iconic images in Eastern Canada.
Day 4
Today is another free day to take in more of Halifax and all it offers.
Day 5
After a leisurely morning, today is your day to enjoy The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. Over the years, the show has been seen by well over 2,000,000 spectators and has hosted tens of thousands of performers from 21 countries. In terms of annual economic impact, it generates tens of millions for the province of Nova Scotia and the Halifax Regional Municipality. Indeed, it will be a most enjoyable day.
Day 6
After a most enjoyable experience in Halifax, you’ll make your way back to Ottawa. Your tour director will advise you on your departure time from the hotel.
Itinerary subject to change.
Hotel Information
Halifax Marriott Harbourfront
Hotel Address
1919 Upper Water StHalifax, NS
B3J 3J5
(902) 421-1700
Ontario- Prince Edward County Winery Tour- Countylicious
November 1-2, 2025
Join Travac on a Gastronomic Tour of The County!
Come and explore Ontario’s newest wine country! Prince Edward County, otherwise known as “The County”, is a rural hotspot with over 40 wineries, a growing craft-beer scene, cider, spirits and fabulous farm to table cuisine.
Prince Edward County is a cultural mosaic of early colonial Canada. Its earliest European settlers were loyalists traveling north from the American Colonies. These early settlers created a culture that remains magnetic to this very day. The simple, laid back lifestyle that is found in the county still resonates through its hills, valleys and waterways.
Travac Tours wants you to follow the Taste Trail with us and discover some of the best food and drink in “The County”. We will be visiting during the county’s Countylicious event, which highlights Prince Edward County’s varied culinary landscape and local producers making farm-to-table fare with special menus. Enjoy your night stay in Picton, the largest community in the county. Explore the small village of shops and farm to table restaurants.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Start your adventure by boarding your private motor coach which departs from Carlingwood Mall. On route to Prince Edward County there will be a pit stop and time for lunch ($). As we enter the County, we will be making our first winery stop at Sugarbush Vineyards. Here we will try locally made wine. Hop back on the motor coach which will take you to the second stop, Kinsip Fine Spirits. Here we will try craft spirits. Reboard the motor coach which will take you to your hotel in Picton where your Travac Tours Director will help check you in. This evening you will be driven to your included dinner at with a Countylicious menu.
Overnight: Picton Harbor Inn
Day 2
Start your day with your included breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a relaxing free morning before checking out of your hotel, and boarding your motorcoach. Before returning to Ottawa, we will be stopping at Waupoos Estate Winery. To start with, we will be enjoying a wine tasting. After enjoying the tasting, we will be having an included lunch from their Countylicious Menu. Following lunch, we will also have a cider tasting at Waupoos. After our time at Waupoos, we will head for the last stop of the tour. Parsons Brewing Company will have local beer for you to try as you enjoy the atmosphere. After this stop we will take you back to Ottawa, on route will be a pit stop and dinner ($).
Itinerary & wineries subject to change.