© C. Labonté
Still relatively little known, the Pontiac abounds in natural treasures, including its majestic waterways. Located less than an hour from Gatineau-Ottawa, this part of the Outaouais is like a world apart, with its impressive beauty and rugged landscapes. You’ll be won over by its rapids, vast sandy beaches, waterways and rivers. A refreshing day awaits you!
The Pontiac is the Ottawa River at its best! This is the place for outstanding rafting adventures with friends or family. With its world-class whitewater, Quebec’s longest river is also known for its warm temperature throughout the season—no bad thing when you know you’ll be on the water all day. With Rafting Momentum, you’ll have fun in the rapids aboard a boat, kayak or river board. Don’t worry, you’ll always be supervised by experienced and dedicated guides. Even the youngest members of your group can participate safely, thanks to packages for all ages and abilities.
What could be more satisfying than catching your own fish for supper? Escape to the unspoiled nature of the Pontiac for a super successful family fishing trip. Close to the urban centres, discover the Pourvoirie lac de L'indienne, a little corner of paradise that’s home to a large lake teeming with grey and speckled trout. Take the opportunity to enjoy the fully-equipped, solar-powered floating camp! For a 100% wilderness experience, visit the Bryson Lake Lodge, with its 140-km2 territory in the northern part of the region. Native pike, lake trout, brook trout and walleye are sure to take the bait!
The Pontiac region is dotted with natural beaches bordering clear waters. For a refreshing swim in the Ottawa River, try Fort William Beach in Sheenboro or the beach at Norway Bay. Leslie Park Beach is perfect for a family picnic, with facilities and services including playground equipment, watercraft rentals, and mountain bike and hiking trails. Don’t miss the new Plage du Pont Blanc in the village of Mansfield-et-Pontefract. The historic site, a community favourite. Aventure Hélianthe offers several activities, including the Lazy River Float. Discover also Aventure Coulonge, a privately owned nature reserve, that offers cottage rentals and beautiful unserviced lots in the heart of the forest and on the riverfront for trailers and self-contained recreational vehicles. All in all, there are lots of places in the Pontiac where you can wiggle your toes in the sand.
Ready for a boat ride on Quebec’s longest river? The Ottawa River Waterway flows through 1,200 kilometres of incomparably beautiful scenery. Diverse flora and fauna, historic sites and small friendly villages dot this blue route, which originates in Lake Timiskaming. Book your boat lift to experience this unique adventure!
The real adventure starts here! The rivers of the Pontiac offer hundreds of kilometres of canoe routes in a wild and enchanting setting. The experienced team at Aventure Rivière Sauvage will guide you through the most beautiful river descents. Canoe transport, natural sandy beaches, isolated campsites and unspoiled nature: your stay is sure to be very restorative!
In the mood for beaches, swimming and family fun? Stop off at the Centre touristique du Lac-Simon, a must-see destination for summer fun. Bordered by an immense body of water and a 2-kilometre-long sandy beach, this natural oasis is ideal for swimming, canoeing, kayaking or simply relaxing under the sun. There are picnic areas, trails, a playground and even a campground to prolong your enjoyment of nature. The perfect place to create unforgettable memories in an enchanting setting.
Get your adrenalin pumping with a visit to the Chutes Coulonge Adventure Park, a heritage and natural jewel in the Pontiac region. Soak up the history of the log drivers as you admire the mighty 42-metre waterfall, a true spectacle of nature. Walk on the suspended footbridges overlooking the gorge, or soar through the air on the giant zip lines and aerial course perched in the trees. The site, steeped in raw beauty, also offers interpretation trails, perfect for combining physical activity with cultural discovery. It's a not-to-be-missed adventure for thrill-seekers and local history buffs alike.
+ What if, after enjoying Pontiac's magnificent waterways, you were in the mood for a bite to eat and a glass of wine? Discover the country terrace of the Little Red Wagon Winery. Cheers!
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!