Two days of nature and culture

The Chemins d'eau tourist route awaits you for a weekend of discoveries. Start your tour at the Symmes Inn Museum, a designated historic property built in 1831 by Charles Symmes, the founder of Aylmer. Next, head north along Highway 148 and take a break to admire Luskville Falls. The next day, start with a visit to the majestic site of the George Bryson Heritage House, a designated historic site, and end your day with a memorable hike on the Oiseau Rock Trail, one of the most important rock art sites in North America.

1

Symmes Inn Museum

Built in 1831 by Charles Symmes, the founder of Aylmer, this heritage building located in the Old Aylmer’s heritage district is a classified historic monument and a designated National Historic Site of Canada. The Museum presents its permanent exhibition “Symmes Inn: Windows onto the Ottawa River”, which recounts (through historical figures) the various functions of this important location over the centuries.

21 km
2

Luskville Falls

Discover Luskville Falls in Gatineau Park, an outdoor destination renowned for its spectacular scenery. Admire this impressive waterfall, especially in spring, when the melting snow transforms it into a mighty, majestic fall. Take on the challenge of a very demanding trail that climbs the Eardley Escarpment for almost 300 metres, leading to lookouts offering breathtaking views, as well as a fire tower. Plan your visit without dogs to protect this fragile habitat. Please note that the site is closed during winter.

86 km
3

George Bryson Cultural House

In the Pontiac region, at Mansfield-et-Pontefract, the George Bryson House is a heritage museum classified as a Quebec historic monument, open only in summer, from June 30 to August 30. Located on the banks of the Ottawa River, opposite Quebec's longest covered bridge, it showcases the history, culture and heritage of the Pontiac region. Visitors discover exhibits, 19th-century architecture and a genealogy center unique in the region, ideal for tracing their ancestors with the help of passionate volunteers.

97 km
4

Oiseau Rock Trail

Located in the Pontiac region, the Rocher-à-l'Oiseau trail offers magnificent views and interpretive panels on the history and culture of the Algonquin people. Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted: this hike is sure to be one of your finest. To get there, an all-terrain vehicle or 4 x 4 is recommended due to the rugged terrain. The 9 km round trip takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. Remember to bring water and snacks, and wear appropriate hiking boots. Some passages can be slippery and perilous: stay vigilant, especially during hunting season. Trail closed in winter.