Adventurers, Don’t Miss This Pontiac Road Trip in Outaouais Quebec

If you’ve been to Gatineau, you’ve already had a taste of the Outaouais in Quebec. Referencing the French name for the Ottawa River which actually means “to buy or to sell” in the Algonquin language, signifying that the Ottawa River has been a place of importance since time immemorial. While this region in Western Quebec is still bustling with activity, there are less travelled parts that call to those who are looking for adventure. 

Explore deep into the Outaouais as this is where you’ll find the Pontiac region. Relish in the great outdoors from both land and water, meet with passionate local entrepreneurs and their unique ventures, sleep soundly in unforgettable accommodations, fuel yourself with delectable eats and of course, enjoy a beverage in some seriously funky spots! What else could you ask for? This wonderful mix of activities is why you need to visit the Outaouais and tackle this epic Pontiac road trip!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links where I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. It helps keep IBB alive so thank you Also, this content was produced in partnership with Outaouais Tourism, however all of the thoughts and opinions within this article are entirely my own.

Whether you visit for a few days or an entire week, there is plenty of things to do in Pontiac that you’ll be planning to return. I already can’t wait to get back and spend more quality time with this unique region of Quebec! It makes for a fantastic girls trip destination but it’s perfect for a romantic getaway and even a family vacation. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Adventures Await in the Pontiac!

Things to Know For Your Pontiac Road Trip Adventure

Compared to other regions in Outaouais, Pontiac is more rugged. This should not discourage anyone from visiting, it just means you need to be aware of a few things!

First, cell service can be spotty in some areas. While you may be just across the river from Pembroke, Renfrew and other towns, you may encounter dead zones. This typically isn’t too much of a problem, especially since you’re probably here to disconnect! However, it can make navigating difficult if you’re unable to load your directions. I recommend downloading your maps so they’re accessible offline to avoid any issues.

Second, some of the roads are not made for all vehicles. During my girls trip with Kat, I was lucky to be riding in her Jeep which meant we had nothing to worry about! For the most part, you can dodge these roads where all wheel drive is recommended but be prepared to encounter some rough roads. The path less travelled is more fun anyway!

Third, gas is quite expenses as this is a rural area. If you’re travelling from the Ontario side, I recommend filling your tank in Pembroke or Renfrew to save a few dollars. You’ll be able to explore all of the locations in this article on one tank of gas so you won’t need to worry about filling up. If you’re visiting from Quebec, I’d think about popping over to the Ontario side to cash in on the cheaper fuel!

Lastly, French is not necessary in this area of Quebec! I couldn’t believe how much English was spoken. If the language barrier has ever deterred you from visiting La Belle Province, then you need to plan a trip to the Pontiac. It’s a great way to dip your toes in to get your bearings in Quebec before branching out to more Francophone destinations.

Now, let’s get to it and start mapping out your Pontiac road trip route!

Soaking Up the Sun Overlooking the Grounds of La Fée des Bois

9 Phenomenal Things to Do in Pontiac Quebec

Pontiac is a road tripper’s paradise. Not only are there plenty of peculiar places (in the best way) but there are a number of fantastic routes to help guide your adventures. From van life to agricultural tourism and magnificence in between, you’ll be blown away by how much the region has to offer.

The following stops loosely follow this Adventure Route found here. While the path officially begins and ends near Gatineau, the heart of it lies within the Pontiac Region. We then added a handful of stops to make this one absolutely adventurous affair!

Flowers Hanging Inside the La Fée des Bois Boutique

Herboristerie La Fée des Bois

Address: 34 Chem. Greermount, Shawville, QC [map]

Stroll through 6 acres as you uncover the fantastic world of herbalism with Herboristerie La Fée des Bois! Learn about the regenerative methods used to grow this plant sanctuary and the products crafted from them. Chances are you’ll meet Mariane, the incredible herbalist behind La Fée des Bois. She’s a fountain of information and will gladly help you understand what plants are used and the medicinal properties in each product. You can also dive deeper into learning with Mariane with her online videos located on the apothecary’s website here.

Enjoy a cup of tea on their beautiful patio and peruse their full range of items. Guests can enjoy guided tours or sign up for one of their workshops. If you’re short on time, at least take a minute to pop into their rustic boutique. You’ll find plenty of ointments, herbs and spices, tonics and more. They have a beautiful outdoor patio where you can sip on some tea and enjoy the views of their gorgeous gardens. Keep an eye out for the Icelandic sheep as they roam the fields!

Little Red Wagon Winery

Address: 165 Chem. de Calumet O, Shawville, QC [map]

The heritage grapes from this 1940s historical fruit farm are the backbone of Little Red Wagon Winery’s vintages. Using northern grape varieties such as Louise Swenson and Petit Perle, any wine enthusiast will find one they enjoy! Try one of their flagship wines – P’tit Rouge, P’tit Blanc or P’tit Rosé – or try the P’tit Pontiac, a summer favourite. They even have an orange wine if you’re feeling a bit adventurous! Plus for bubble lovers such as myself, you’ll love their piquettes which are made from pressed grape skins and water to craft a sparkling wine-like beverage which is light and delightful!

Take a seat on their patio or cozy up at a table inside as you nibble on delectable bites like their trout pâté. I’m not usually a fan of dishes like this but it’s honestly incredible, especially when enjoyed alongside one of their stellar charcuterie boards! Guests will find small plates when they’re open Thursday through Sunday from May to October, however they often have live concert and dinner nights where you can enjoy great local talent and freshly made pizza! Book your tickets online and do so early as this is a favourite activity for locals so they can sell out pretty quickly.

One thing I love is when wineries allow you to explore the grounds which you can do at Little Red Wagon Winery! Enjoy a stroll through the vineyards and don’t forget to pop by their flower garden. It’s not only great for taking photos but you can’t help but smile when you’re surrounded by beautiful blooms as you sip a glass of rosé!

Coronation Hall Cider Mills

Address: 206 Chem. River, Bristol, QC [map]

You cannot make a trip to the Pontiac Region without visiting the first cidery in Western Quebec! Coronation Hall is steeped in history as this dance hall has been the heart of Bristol Village for almost a century. Greg, the owner, is a fountain of information and will gladly tell you about the town as well as how Coronation Hall Cider Mills came to be. You will be captivated by his tales as he’s an absolute hoot. From his own experiences to tales he’s been told from locals and visitors alike, you’ll need to return for another visit to even scratch the surface of all the stories he has.

Slowly growing their repertoire, customers can enjoy two varieties of their hard ciders as well as a number of other items crafted from the apples grown in their orchard including pies, jams, barbecue sauce and more. Take a seat on their adorable patio and pop into the hall itself to learn more about the history of the area, Canada’s first horse railway and other fun facts from their interpretive signage displayed throughout. And yes, Coronation Hall still hosts the odd dance to this very day!

I’m Still Dreaming About This Schnitzel Platter

Brauwerk Hoffman

Address: 1298 Rte 148, Campbell’s Bay, Quebec [map]

Not only can you visit the first cidery but also the Pontiac first microbrewery! Brauwerk Hoffman brings a taste of Germany to the region as they specialize in traditional German-style beers. From Kölsch to Schwarzbier and even a Maibock, there are plenty of brews to try. If you’re a fan of sours like me, you’ll love their Cherry Bomb Hefeweizen. I’m not saying it’s a sour beer but it’s fruity and light so I think sour fans will enjoy it! Whatever you get, make sure it’s a flight – why try one beer when you can try four?

SOMETHING TO NOTE: Brauwerk Hoffman along with Little Red Wagon Winery and Coronation Hall Cider Mills are all part of the Pontiac’s Tap & Cork Route. Self-guided, this tour includes wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries so you can sip your way through the region. It also includes businesses on the Ontario side making it a fun way to explore this stretch of the Ottawa River! Click here to find out more.

Guests can enjoy their beverages inside their beerhall or on their gorgeous patio during the warmer months. Short on time? Not to worry as they have plenty of cans which you can grab and go. However, I highly recommend you plan a meal here as part of your Pontiac road trip itinerary. Summer is when this place shines as they have some fantastic German-style eats though they do have some specials like pizza on Thursdays. Every other Friday is schnitzel night and I’m thrilled my visit was on one as theirs is unreal (pictured above). I devoured the entire thing – no judging.

Still Over the Moon About Seeing a Yak For Myself!

Pure Conscience Yak Farm

Address: 57 Chem. Ragged Chute, Bristol, QC [map]

Pontiac is home to some unique enterprises and Pure Conscience is just one more reason to visit as it’s the ONLY yak farm in Outaouais! This agroecological farm aims to educated visitors on food self-sufficiency, sustainable lifestyles and emphasizes respect for all living things. The passion found here is contagious, especially after speaking with Gema. As one of the driving forces behind Pure Conscience, she absolutely glows as she shares her knowledge with all who visit and watch as they experience this one-of-a-kind destination.

Visitors will find a boutique shop as well as a self-guided tour around the property. As you explore, you may just see a few of these adorable creatures off in the distance! They can be quite shy but if you’re lucky (and calm!), they may just come around. 

If you’d like to spend a little more time with the yaks, Pure Conscience has a farm cottage you can rent! Sleeping up to four guests and equipped with all the essentials, guests will get VIP access to meet their herd of yaks. You can also say hello to their hens and enjoy the private hiking and mountain bike trail that traverses their 220 acres of land. How cool is that?!

Rocher-à-l’Oiseau (Oiseau or Bird Rock) Trail

Address: Chem. Schyan, Sheenboro, QC [map]

Journey through the forest as you follow the trail to Migizi Kiishkaabikaan which translates to Bird Rock in the Algonquin language. This area is sacred to the Algonquin People as Oiseau Rock is a portal for the spirits to depart this world and meet their ancestors in the spirit world. This was also where the infamous Nanabozho (also referred to as Nanabijou and Nanabush) would dwell as depicted by the pictographs painted on Bird Rock. If this name sounds familiar, it’s because he is also the Sleeping Giant of Thunder Bay and is referenced in a number of other places of Indigenous significance throughout Turtle Island!

This 9 kilometre out and back trail is not an easy one with over 150 metres of elevation change throughout. The challenge is worth it as you’ll be treated to impeccable vistas of the Ottawa River as you wave to Ontarians in Pembroke and the plethora of boats enjoying the waterway. Trail runners or hiking shoes are necessary as the terrain can be rough in spots, though make sure you bring along your bathing suit. There’s a pristine lake near the trail’s summit where you can enjoy a quick dip to cool off. This is a highlight of the trail and not something you’ll want to miss!

SOMETHING TO NOTE: All wheel drive is needed in order to access the trailhead due to rough terrain. I’m glad we had Kat’s Jeep as I wouldn’t have been comfortable driving as my Mazda CX-5 is only front wheel drive. A handful of cars were parked at the entrance to the access along Chemin Schyan but it will tack on about 2.5 kilometres to your hike. You’ll also need to pay for access as it’s part of Zec St-Patrice which you can learn more about here.

This hike is the furthest from all the other spots included in this article but I promise it’s worth the trek. The views are absolutely incredible and who doesn’t want to enjoy a dip in some pristine waters to cool off half way through?! Make sure you reapply your sunscreen and bug spray though as you’ll be dodging mosquitoes, blackflies and deer flies. Despite this, it was honestly one of my favourite things to do in the Pontiac Region and I would absolutely hike this trail again, especially as the fall colours arrive!

Live Music at the Hotel Pontiac

Address: 7 Chem. Perrault, Sheenboro, QC [map]

If you’re making the trek to Bird Rock, then you must reward yourself with some fuel at Hotel Pontiac! What was once a hotbed for commerce as an original Hudson’s Bay trading post later became a vacation getaway for guests arriving by steamboat in the late 1890s. While the main building is no longer a hotel due to historical preservation laws, it’s certainly one of the liveliest summer destinations in the region!

“Welcome to the Fort” as locals and visitors alike arrive by boat or by car to soak up the sun on their massive waterfront patio. Guests can still stay overnight as they have a variety of cottages available both nightly and weekly, though many come for some eats and drinks on the beach. Hearty eats are on the menu and their donair poutine is a must. Classic Quebec poutine complete with squeaky cheese meets the Halifax delight complete with garlic sauce. It absolutely slaps, especially when paired with one of their signature cocktails. Grab a Blue Umbrella and then ask to hear the story behind it.

If you’re in the area on a Saturday, make sure to stop in and enjoy the live band cranking out some classic rock jams. You might even catch the owner, Trevor, crushing it on the drums! Perfect for families where kids can play in the sand, catching up with friends over a cold one or travellers looking for a break while exploring the Ottawa River, you can’t go wrong with the Hotel Pontiac.

Admiring the Stunning Chutes Coulonge

Parc des Chutes Coulonge

Address: 100 Prom. Du-Parc-des-Chutes, Mansfield-et-Pontefract, QC [map]

With massive ziplines and a via ferrata that’s over 600 metres long, adrenaline junkies will adore Parc des Chutes Coulonge. However, the park isn’t only for those hunting for their next thrill!

The Coulonge River was a hub of activity in the 19th Century as loggers sent tree trunks downstream to the saw mills. However, the series of three waterfalls known as Coulonge Falls was an impassible obstacle. While the log drive is no longer in operation, visitors will still be blown away by these natural wonders as the river plummets 48 metres. Follow the trails which offer some incredible views and you just might catch some folks zipping above the falls to the other side of the gorge!

Nothing but Relaxing Vibes on the Lazy River

Lazy River Rafting with Aventure Hélianthe

Address: 257 Rue Principale, Mansfield-et-Pontefract, QC [map]

Plage du Pont Blanc (aka White Bridge Beach) is being given new life as the beach is now accessible to all as well as offering equipment rentals like paddleboards, canoes and kayaks to explore the water and bikes for on land. However, Aventure Hélianthe has one more way to experience the waterway – by tube!

These fine folks will drive you about 10 minutes from Plage du Pont Blanc and a few kilometres downstream from Chutes Coulonge. From here, you’ll take off with your raft and any goodies you’d like to bring along for the ride as you float along the Coulonge River. Bask in the sunshine as you hang out with your crew, snacking and chatting away until you return to your starting point after about 2 to 3 hours. It’s a leisurely way to see the Pontiac from a new angle which is always a plus!

Afterwards, you can continue the fun with some axe throwing on-site. If this is your last activity in the Pontiac like it was for Kat and I, they have fantastic comfort stations where you can freshen up. Make sure you have a loonie on hand as you’ll appreciate a nice shower before hopping in the car for the drive home!

Where to Stay When Exploring the Pontiac

One of the best things about the Pontiac is that each of the destinations on this list are no more than 90 minutes from each other. This makes it easy to plan your trip along the Adventure Route! Plus, the Pontiac has some pretty incredible accommodations to choose from which, once again, are all within that 90 minute or less time frame.

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing all of these places and each has its own unique charm. Whether you’re looking for something that sleeps the whole family, a waterfront spot that’s eco-friendly or a tranquil getaway, there is something to suit everyone’s travel style in the Pontiac.

Rafting Momentum’s Deluxe Pavillon Apartment

Address: 1041 Route 148, Bryson, QC [map]

You may think that in order to stay at this spot, you must commit to white water rafting on the Ottawa River. While it is incredibly fun (I did this many moons ago), this is simply not true! If you’re planning on visiting the Pontiac Region with a large group of friends or your family in tow, then Rafting Momentum’s Deluxe Pavillon Apartment is the perfect accommodation option.

This stunning two level accommodation is situated on the third and fourth floors above the camper’s shower facilities. Soak up the wood cabin vibes as you enjoy this entertaining space complete with quirky accoutrements like indoor hammocks that are perfect for lounging with a good book. With six beds, it can sleep up to twelve guests which is why it’s great for large groups!

Not only is the kitchen fully equipped with a full size refrigerator and an oven, you’ll find everything you could need to whip up a meal. Of course, the Pontiac Region has some great restaurant options (Brauwerk Hoffman and Little Red Wagon Winery are just a few minutes away!) if you’d rather leave the cooking to someone else. Plus you can treat yourself to breakfast in the reception barn for some fresh eggs and potatoes and get a game of ping pong in while you enjoy your morning coffee!

Enjoy the abundance of space as you lounge on the couches or grab a seat on one of the multiple balconies offering great views of the property. In the evenings, pick one of the board games in the living room and settle in for an evening of friendly competition or join other Rafting Momentum guests and roast some marshmallows by the communal fire. Convinced?  Click here to book your stay at Rafting Momentum’s Deluxe Pavillon Apartment.

Aventure Coulonge’s Container Cabins

Address: 600 Chem. du Bois-Franc, Mansfield-et-Pontefract, QC [map]

For those who love eco-friendly accommodation options, you’ll adore staying at one of Aventure Coulonge’s micro-cabins. These shipping containers have been customized to have either one or two bedrooms as well as indoor plumbing. They’re all located along the shores of the Coulonge River where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the water from your screened in-porch!

Each of the cabins operate on minimal energy so while you can enjoy some of creature comforts of home, you’re lessening your impact on the environment. Keep your eats and treats cold with a full-size fridge and whip up a meal on the outdoor charcoal barbecues. If the weather isn’t on your side like it was for us, the oven and stovetop will certainly come in handy!

Make sure you carve out some time to explore the property as it has much more to offer besides the cabins! Take a canoe out for a spin, read a book in one of the hammocks or just watch the river float beneath you from their epic lookout platform. I wish Mother Nature had better weather for us so we had more time to enjoy but I’d say that just means another stay is in order! Click here to book a cabin.

Chalets Prunella’s A-Frames

Address: 130 Chem. Miller, Ladysmith, QC [map]

Enjoy a tranquil oasis as you’re surrounded by 75 acres of stunning forests at Chalets Prunella. These gorgeous A Frame cabins include everything you could possibly need for your stay. As soon as you step into your cabin, you won’t want to leave so I recommend bringing groceries in order to soak up every last minute! It’s quite easy as each cabin has everything you need to prepare your meals including a stove top, microwave, barbecue, fire pit, small fridge and all the utensils you may need.

These cabins are the epitome of relaxation as each one has its own cedar hot tub where you can soak your worries away. Guests can also enjoy the trails on-site as well as Lake Johnson which is a short walk from the cabins. There are two docks equipped with kayaks, paddle boards and floaties for maximum enjoyment of these pristine waters. 

Cabins 1 & 2 are larger, featuring 2 bedrooms and sleeping up to four people while cabins 3-7 are smaller with an open concept studio and sleeps two. Despite their small footprint, everything is well thought out to make these cabins quite spacious. Start your day by sipping a coffee on the deck and end your night cuddled up around the glow of a crackling fire. Click here to book your A Frame now!

Ready to Visit the Pontiac in Outaouais?

As you can see, the region has plenty of extraordinary experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. For the adventurous at heart, road tripping through the Pontiac is the best way to enjoy it all. However, there’s always more than meets the eye!

Can’t take my word for it? Well maybe these 14k reasons developed by the 14,000 folks that call the Pontiac home will help convince you. All I know is that I’m already itching for a return trip to discover more of this beautiful region in Western Quebec.

Disclaimer:
This post is brought to you in partnership with Outaouais Tourism. While I was compensated for my time, all of the content and opinions here are honest and speak to my personal experience!