Outaouais
Travel

Outaouais, A Great Area For A Quick Getaway.

Why plan a quick getaway to Outaouais?

The Outaouais area is the portal to Western Quebec across the river from the Capital of Ottawa.  It encompasses a region that includes Gatineau, Aylmer, and Hull along with several National Parks. It is a short 2-hour drive from Montreal and within an hour from Ottawa.  Even if heading in from Toronto, it is a little more than a 5-hour drive.

In Outaouais, it is easy to explore the history, culture, and adventure of the area during a quick getaway.  

For the urban explorers, check out the Downtown Gatineau Cultural Trail, a 3 KM route that invites us to walk and discover the hidden treasures of Old Hull and admire some of the great urban artwork along the way.  

For the History and Cultural Buff

This a definite must see – the Canadian Museum of History’s brand new gallery, a 40,000 square foot space tracing Canada’s history from the dawn of human habitation to present day. An incredible and enlightening exhibition as you discover the stories and artifacts, as well as movements and figures that shaped and influenced Canada throughout the years to present, all with a National focus.   

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If you have a chance before October 15th, make your way to the Mosaic150 exhibition.  A major horticultural exhibition that celebrates Canada and its 150 years through the various arrangements combining art forms with horticulture. The displays are exceptional and very creative,  with representations for every province and what they are known for. 

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For the Adventurist

Gatineau Park itself has over 50 different trails and 200 km. of cross-country ski trails.  It is also located just 1.5 km from downtown Gatineau. For the cyclist, they have over 33km of bike paths in the summer and 28 km. in the winter. If you are in the park in the fall, you will find a burst of colour as the leaves are on full display at that time.

If you have ever wanted to experience mushing, the place to head is north towards Bristol to TImberland Tours. You don’t have to wait for the snow to enjoy a dog sled adventure as they have year-round sledding.

Follow the road east towards the Montebello region where you will find Omega Park.  You can discover wildlife such as moose, elk, bison, wolves, and bears all within their natural environment in the park. If you prefer, you can even sleep near the bears and the wolves on the grounds until the end of October in one of the on-site accommodations.  

For those looking for rest and relaxation

The Montebello region is also home to the unique Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello located along the Ottawa River; the largest log building in Canada and steeped in history. A beautiful, rustic, yet luxurious resort to relax in for a few days. They have several activities available on the grounds and the marina, along with exceptional cuisine for great dining experiences.  

Outaouais

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Have you been to the Outaouais area, what was your favorite experience?  Be sure to check for more detailed articles on some of the above experiences in future posts.

 

*Disclosure: I was generously hosted by Tourisme Outaouais, however, all opinions are my own.

 

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  1. I remember visiting this area many years ago. I remember taking a stroll around Gatineau Park and was amazed how big the park was. This post sure did bring back some great memories for me.

    1. It is an incredible area, and so much to do! Glad it brought back some great memories! 🙂

  2. This sounds like a beautiful place to check out! Definitely something for everyone 🙂

  3. How do you pronounce the name of this place? I would have never thought it’s in Canada. Must come from an indigenous language, right? The Mosaic150 exhibition looks very interesting. Pity, it only lasts until October 15, I surely won’t be in Canada this year. Would like to visit the Omega Park to see some wild animals.

    1. It does sound it, but I believe it is French …. ut-ah-ways is how I say it. But may not be correct… :/ THe Mosaic150 was incredible. If you can make it to Omega Park to see the wildlife you should, but there is so much to do in the entire area.

  4. Wow I have never heard of this place before but it looks really beautiful and a great spot for a getaway!

  5. My first time hearing/reading about Outaouais. 2 hours from Quebec (one of the cities in Canada that I’d love to visit one day!) is not bad. I’ve always wanted to experience the colours of autumn in one of the many parks in Canada – Gatineau Park with over 50 different trails sounds like as good choice as any, I bet!

  6. I’ve been to Quebec & Ottawa but I’d never heard of Outaouais before. With the history & adventure, it sounds like my kind of destination, I will definitely keep it in mind for my next visit to Canada

    1. It is too bad you missed it when you were near Ottawa… a reason to get back to Canada!

  7. My favorite part of this article is “for adventurers” because that me! Dog sledding and spotting wildlife like moose is right up my alley. It’s so great that this winter getaway is so close to Montreal and Ottawa.

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