© Claire Kowalewicz
Photo: Tourisme Outaouais
The Collines-de-l’Outaouais have that certain something that makes you want to slow down. Here, the landscapes invite you to take your time, the villages are brimming with charm, and every detour leads to a new culinary discovery. From a village café to a gourmet restaurant, from a local farm to an artisanal microbrewery, the region’s flavors unfolds as you meet new people and explore.
Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary to savor the Collines-de-l’Outaouais, one bite at a time.
Start your stay in the charming village of Chelsea with a freshly brewed coffee and an artisanal pastry at Biscotti & Cie. Looking for slower pacing over a brunch or specialty coffee, Café Palmier is another popular spot that perfectly captures the village’s warm atmosphere and local lifestyle. This first stop is perfect to set you off to explore the region.
With a full belly, heat to the Gatineau Park. Whether you choose a hike up Mount King, a bike ride, or simply a stroll through the forest, the spectacular scenery will allow you to discover one of the greatest natural treasures of the Collines-de-l’Outaouais.
After an outdoor outing, settle in at Roberto Pizza Romana. Inspired by the Roman tradition, the cuisine showcases high-quality ingredients in a friendly atmosphere in the heart of the village.
Spend the rest of the afternoon through the streets of Chelsea, exploring the local shops, and soaking up the village’s warm atmosphere.
Make a stop at La Cigale, a true summer institution in the region. Ice cream, sorbets, and frozen treats have been delighting visitors for years.
Extend this relaxing moment, treat yourself to a few hours at the Nordik Spa Village in Chelsea. With outdoor baths, saunas, and relaxation areas, it’s the perfect place to unwind and make most of your day.
Craft beer enthusiasts will enjoy a stop a Chelsea & Co or Brasseurs des Collines. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover local brewing expertise while enjoying a relaxing moment on the patio.
For dinner, take a seat at L’Orée du Bois, one the Outaouais finest institutions. In an elegant and rustic setting, local produces are showcased through the refined cuisine for which the restaurant is renowned.
End this first day on a high note and check into Maison O’Brien. Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, this charming inn offers a peaceful and comfortable setting, ideal to recharge your batteries before pursuing your getaway.
After a night in Chelsea, hit the road toward Wakefield, one of the most iconic villages in the Collines-de-l’Outaouais.
Start your morning with a coffee at Bluebarn Coffee Roasters or at Café Earle, two beloved spots with carefully crafted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Then, make the most of your visit by crossing the famous red Wakefield covered bridge and take a stroll along the Gatineau River.
Wakefield is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Take the time to explore the independent boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and local businesses that contribute to the town’s unique character.
Between sightseeing stops, make a detour to La Confiserie Wakefield to pick up some artisanal treats or simply satisfy your sweet tooth.
For lunch, stop by The Village House, a cozy spot where seasonal produce takes center stage.
Food lovers can also check out Isabelle Bistrot, a favorite among local for its creative cuisine inspired by local produce.
After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding areas. The beaches at Philippe Lake and Parent beaches, located in Gatineau Part, offer the perfect setting to relax, go for a swim, or simply enjoy the summer scenery.
On your way back to the village, treat yourself to an ice cream break at Sur la Lune, the perfect spot to end the afternoon on a sweet not.
Extend your experience by staying at the Moulin Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa, an iconic establishment that combines charming accommodations, fine dining, and relaxation in the heart of nature.
This final day is dedicated to the producers who shape the culinary identity of the Collines-de-l’Outaouais.
Depending on the season, hit the road to explore Juniper Farm, the Roots and Shoots Farm, the Maktoub Farm, or Ferme Caminoix. Each offers a unique experience that lets you learn more about local products, farming methods, and the artisans who feed the region.
These visits provide a special insight into the region and allow you to take home a few products to enjoy or offer as gifts.
Why not putting together a picnic using the products you discovered during your visit? The Collines are full of peaceful spots where you can stop to savor the region’s bounty in an exceptional natural setting.
Before hitting the road again, take a detour to the Egan Mill in Quyon. This heritage site bears witness to the region’s agricultural and industrial history and offers insights into the roots of the communities that have shaped the Collines-de-l’Outaouais.
Take the opportunity to bring back local products as souvenirs of your stay. From regional specialties to gourmet finds sourced from local producers and artisans, the flavors of the Collines-de-l’Outaouais will stay with you long after you return home.
From village cafés to fine-dining restaurants, from craft microbreweries to passionate producers, the Collines-de-l’Outaouais offer much more than just a culinary getaway. Here, every meal becomes an opportunity to discover a landscape, a story, or a new connection.
Accessible, authentic, and generous, this destination invites you to slow down, explore and, above all, taste everything that makes it unique. Whether it’s for a romantic weekend, and outing with friends, or a few days of vacation, the Collines-de-l’Outaouais promise a stay where local flavors always take center stage.
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Want to expend your getaway? Discover our ideas for picnics in the Outaouais, explore other experiences in the Collines-de-l’Outaouais, get inspired by our suggestions for scenic drives, or plan your next adventure with our Things to do in the Outaouais section.
Curious, active and a real foodie, I love discovering a region by savouring its fine restaurants, exploring its trails and letting myself be surprised by its craft markets, cultural events and hidden gems. Whether it’s a hike, a sunset or a new place to try, every outing is an opportunity to create wonderful memories. I hope to inspire you to explore the Outaouais and to fall, too, under the spell of this region.