Neuro Retreat 2025
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By invitation
This year's Neuro Retreat will take place on June 6-8, 2025, at Ìýin beautiful Magog-Orford, Estrie. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Eastern Townships, the Neuro Retreat is always a fantastic opportunity to connect with colleagues, learn about exciting initiatives at The Neuro and to take advantage of the local surroundings. Stay tuned for more details!
The collegial and interactive environment characteristic of our retreats provides an ideal forum for fostering interactions among members of the Neuro community, as well as with colleagues from across the º«¹úÂãÎè campus. Together, we strive to build an even stronger and more integrated network that will work together to accelerate the pace of scientific discovery and treatment of neurological diseases and disorders.
- Located just 90 minutes from Montreal, Hôtel Estrimont offers a serene escape in the heart of the Eastern Townships, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant local culture.
- Magog-Orford is a premier destination for all seasons, boasting stunning lakes, mountains, and a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and cycling.
- The hotel is conveniently accessible off Highway 10, with many local attractions such as vineyards, quaint shops, and renowned spas within a short drive.
- Hôtel Estrimont features top-notch amenities, including outdoor thermal baths, an indoor saltwater pool, a sauna, a fitness center, and the renowned Amerispa—ideal for relaxation.
- Our retreat will enjoy exclusive access to some of the hotel's newly renovated suites and meeting spaces, perfectly tailored for productive sessions and unwinding in comfort.
- Program
- Neuro Extra-Curricular Activities
- Hotel Activities
- Regional Attractions
- Call for Applications
- Directions
- Organizing committee
Program
View Preliminary ProgrammeNeuro Extra-Curricular Activities
*These activities will be organized through the Neuro. All but the Dance & Games Night require registration.
Hiking on Mount Orford (June 7, 1:30 – 4:30)
Get outdoors and explore the beauty of Mount Orford! A guided group hike will be held on Saturday afternoon, allowing attendees to enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking landscapes. The trails are accessible via a 4-minute drive from the hotel, and carpooling will be arranged by The Neuro Team.
Winery Tour - Au Vignoble d'Orford (June 7, 2:00 – 3:30)
Join us for an informative winery tour. The 1-hour tour includes a guided visit, general information on viticulture, a 30-minute walk in the vineyard, and a presentation on wine making and tastings. Au Vignoble d'Orford is located in the heart of the Orford region. It is surrounded by mountains and directly faces the prestigious Mount Orford. The winery is a 4-minute drive from the hotel. Carpooling will be arranged by The Neuro Team.
Yoga (June 7, 7:30 – 8:15 a.m.) (Nolan B room or outside, weather permitting)
Unwind and recharge in a 1-hour yoga class for all levels. The class will take place on Saturday morning at 7:30 am. Bring your towel or yoga mat. Comfortable clothing is recommended. Organized by The Neuro Team.
Dance and Games Night (June 7, evening) (Magog-Orford room)
Take a break from the day's discussions and enjoy an evening of dancing, games, and friendly competition. Board games and cards will be provided. A poker tournament will also be held for those looking to test their skills.ÌýThis will take place following dinner. Organized by The Neuro Team.
Hotel Activities
Bike Rentals
Explore the area at your own pace with a bike rental! 4 bikes are available for rent at an additional cost. Please ask the front desk to get the key to unlock a bike.
Amerispa
Take a break and recharge with a visit to Estrimont's spa.ÌýSpots are limited, so be sure to book in advance at . Please note that spa services come at an additional cost.
Tennis and Volleyball Courts
Stay active with a game of tennis or volleyball! The courts are available for use, and all equipment can be borrowed for free from the front desk.
Swimming Pools and Gym
Take a swim in Estrimont's outdoor or indoor pool and get in a workout at the well-equipped gym.
Regional Attractions
Hiking is the best way to discover Parc national du Mont-Orford. It's the perfect way to get access to numerous viewpoints, which are said to be among the most spectacular of the Eastern Townships region. Hiking trails form a network of over 80 km of trails laid out to offer you memorable moments of discovery. They are classified from easy to difficult.
Au Vignoble d'Orford is located in the heart of the Orford region. It is surrounded by mountains and directly faces the prestigious Mount Orford. There are guided tours, approximately 1 hour in duration. Requires a minimum of 4 people to participate at $25 per person. The tour includes a visit of the vineyard with guide, general information on viticulture, a 30-minute walk, and a presentation on wine making and tastings. Special prices for groups of 20+ people.
The Espaces Bleu Lavande in Magog (less than 1 hour and 30 minutes from Montreal) offer an immersion into the lavender culture in Quebec. In addition to the lavender fields and floral gardens, our agrotourism site features an interpretation center, an immersive experience created by Moment Factory, and a beautiful year-round boutique offering a wide range of products made with lavender essential oil.
A cruise over the waters of Lake Memphremagog and views of the beautiful eastern townships. *Note: Discounts for bookings 30 days in advance.
Take a walk along the 6km trail of the marsh of Rivière-aux-Cerises.
Spend the day surrounded by charming alpacas! Domaine Alpagas Essencia is an alpaca farm in Hatley. On-site wool and alpaca products are available for purchase at the boutique.
Lac Stukely Beach is a supervised, clear-water beach. Kayaks are available for rent on-site. It is a 15 minute drive from the hotel.
Call for Applications
We invite you to apply for the upcoming Neuro Retreat, taking place June 6–8, 2025. In your application, tell us why you should be selected to attend and how you would benefit from participating.
Please note:
- One trainee will be chosen per research group at The Neuro.
- Trainees may be asked to share a room with another participant.
The deadline to apply is January 15, 2025. [APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED]
Organizing Committee
Justine Cléry, Chair
Deborah Rashcovsky, Events Lead