© C. Labonté
In the Outaouais, the sun comes out in full force to welcome you! When the heat rises, our activities become even more refreshing. Dive into crystal-clear lakes, challenge the waves by kayaking on the Ottawa River or let yourself be carried away by the breeze when cycling along the shady trails. There's no shortage of options for taking a well-deserved break. Come and discover the Outaouais in a new light, even under the bright sun!
Easily explore the wonders of Gatineau Park with the NCC's shuttle service, available 6 days a week excluding Wednesdays, to discover the hidden gems and most popular destinations of the Outaouais green space. Great for hot days, and it's free! Go through the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre and enjoy the gardens, ruins and museums of the Mackenzie King Estate as well as the breathtaking trails and views from Champlain Lookout. Not to mention must-see attractions like Camp Fortune, which offers several summer activities such as giant ziplining and a mountain coaster in its splendid aerial park. Let yourself be seduced by the unspoilt beauty of nature near the city! Take the opportunity to (re)discover Old Chelsea Square, located at the entrance to the park. Do you feel like going to the NCC River House? You’ll find several amenities to enjoy along the shoreline, including a public dock with a free, supervised swimming area as well as food and beverage services. Gatineau boasts the outdoors with more than 365 parks, 300 km of cycling trails and a multitude of places to escape. Rent equipment at outdoor centres and go on an adventure!
The Outaouais and its 15,000 lakes are home to beautiful beaches. They’re perfect for refreshing yourself and a good picnic with family or friends, so you can make the most of them! Also discover fantastic places to have fun on the water via a kayak trek or paddleboard (SUP). Go explore places where you can paddle endlessly! As a bonus, you'll see the most beautiful sunsets in the region. Prefer an activity that might have a bit more of a splash? Rafting Momentum offers several packages, including a night or two of an incomparable white water rafting experience on the most beautiful river in Quebec, where every wave is hit at its highest point for maximum fun and excitement. Also, did you know that it’s possible to spend the day swimming and enjoying water activities at Base de plein air Air-Eau-Bois? Nothing stops you from booking a stay to sleep under the stars if you feel like it! And if you own a boat or just want to experience the unique atmosphere of the docks, head to the Outaouais marinas. These nautical oases welcome you for a peaceful stopover, perfect for taking in the scenery, refueling or enjoying a meal on the water. Drop anchor at Hull Marina, where the Ottawa River meets the Rideau River, in the heart of Gatineau-Ottawa. Just steps away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, it's an anchorage for visiting boaters. It plays a vital role in the region's tourism vitality and promises a memorable stopover on the water. Further east, be tempted by Gatineau's Marina Kitchissipi, located on the banks of the Ottawa River, just 15 minutes from the Casino du Lac-Leamy. Known for the tranquility of its enchanting location, it's a peaceful refuge surrounded by riverside parks where every stop is a moment of pure bliss. Whether you're looking for a home port or just a stop on your nautical itinerary, this marina offers an exceptional living environment and an atmosphere conducive to relaxation. Finally, for an experience like no other, dock at the Fairmont Le Château Montebello Yacht Club. Bring your boat to the foot of the famous log castle and be enveloped in a unique rustic elegance. Enjoy a delicious outdoor barbecue buffet, relax in the spa, or test your swing on Stanley Thompson's signature golf course. A variety of activities await you in a picture-postcard setting. Sites are still available for the 2025 season for boats under 35 feet. Daily rentals are also available, subject to availability.
Cast your line into the water and enjoy the tranquility in the middle of nature. The Outaouais promises memorable catches, even on warmer days. Need more ideas for your getaway? Here are some suggestions for a successful fishing trip! Yes, my angler friends, you and your family will enjoy a range of activities and unique accommodations! Sail a pontoon on the magnificent Lake McGregor in Val-des-Monts with Location de ponton Lucky Jack. Rent a stable, spacious and well-maintained boat for guaranteed hours of fun! Extend your stay and book a package at Havens at the Hills!
For family fun, head to the Mont Cascades Water Park, which offers four adult water slides, nine children’s slides, six slides for the whole family and a large activity park with waterfalls, swimming pools, a picnic area and a full-service restaurant. Recharge your batteries in a zen environment! During a heat wave, there's nothing like a spa day in the Outaouais to escape the heat! Immerse yourself in revitalizing cold baths, perfect for cooling off and rejuvenating. Alternate with soothing saunas for a complete thermal experience.
Take a refreshing break on the region's magnificent patios! With an iced drink and a gourmet meal, enjoy the shade and good company. On a hot day, there’s nothing better than a visit to the microbreweries of the Outaouais to enjoy a fresh and local beer. From fruity IPAs to rich stouts, each beer tells an exciting story. A summer without ice cream is impossible! Here are several places to enjoy the best sweet treats. Will you have enough of the hot season to try our Outaouais dairy bar recommendations?
Feeling like a break from the outside perhaps? No problem. Visit local museums or air-conditioned art galleries! Also check out our 2025-2026 Official Tourist Guide and immerse yourself in a world of exciting activities this summer! Book your family vacation, a romantic getaway, a camping trip and more. Many options are available to you!
Outaouais, my little corner of paradise where I grew up and which I have the pleasure of introducing to you. My little pleasures: Local gastronomy, a good glass of wine around a warm fire and little hidden treasures, both cozy and unusual, which allow me to escape. Without forgetting the breathtaking landscapes of the waterways, which add a touch of magic to our beautiful region. Why not enjoy it ? Come take a look!