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Unique festivals, varied programming and a dynamic atmosphere will liven up the Outaouais this summer! Here are a few must-try summer festivals.

When it comes to free activities, the Outaouais is all about having fun. Thanks to the region’s vast natural spaces, museums, art galleries and must-see attractions, you can pack your calendar with things to do without spending a dime!

Fire up your motorbike and ride for miles along the roads of the Outaouais. Watch the panoramic scenery change through your visor, follow new routes, and discover a multitude of places to stop along your way.

May in the Outaouais is a colourful month full of firsts! The first bike ride; the first happy hour on an outdoor terrace; the first fishing trip; the first leaves on the trees; the first spring flowers; the first warm days ... Check out our suggestions for things to do to make the most of May!

Vanlife is much more than a trend: it’s a true lifestyle that allows you to connect fully with your chosen destination! In vanlife, you can immerse yourself in unique places, meet friendly people, and go wherever the road takes you. This summer, take a memorable vanlife trip through the Pontiac on Route 148!

Do you have the makings of a great captain? The Outaouais invites you to navigate by land through the Chemins d’eau, a tourist route that winds along the Ottawa River from Petite Nation to Gatineau, traversing the Collines-de-l’Outaouais and Pontiac RCMs as well. A mix of nature, heritage and culture, the attractions along this route will delight everyone, not just sailors! Climb aboard your boat on wheels and discover the key sights of the region! Don’t worry—sea legs are optional, but a thirst for discovery is a must! Head out and explore this tourist route for a road trip to remember!

Spend some quality time with the whole family, including your furry friend! The Outaouais region is full of hiking spots that are ideal for energetic humans and dogs alike. Whether you’re looking for woodland paths, scenic lookouts or refreshing rivers, here’s a list of trails to explore together.  Note: Dogs must be leashed and must stay on the trails. 

The Outaouais is full of unique and unusual places. You can spend the night observing a pack of grey wolves or greet the dawn from a mountain summit. We promise you, a vacation in the Outaouais is anything but boring! A host of outdoor activities await you, not to mention relaxing evenings by the fireplace. 

*Check with businesses for opening hours according to the season and keep up with the latest activity news.  The Outaouais is full of places where you can sample local flavours, and there are just as many ways to discover them. Visit a farm and meet local producers and market gardeners. Taste craft beers and ciders, or distilled products in delicious cocktail recipes. Take a seat in a restaurant and enjoy a casual or gourmet meal. Visit a sugar bush and fill up on liquid gold. Wander through greenhouses and learn about the edible flowers, fruits and vegetables that grow in the region. Treat yourself to a gourmet break in the heart of nature. Discover the Outaouais’ agrotourism offer.

How about giving more than flowers this Mother’s Day? Take a walk in the forest, enjoy a gourmet brunch or share a moment of relaxation at a spa! The Outaouais region is bursting with a thousand and one ways to say thank you differently. This year, get off the beaten track and offer her moments to savor, memories to cherish and local products to pamper herself with. A perfect excuse to encourage local businesses!