Nostalgic attractions in the Outaouais

500a Notre-Dame Street, Montebello

This beautifully preserved mansion, former home of the famous patriot Louis-Joseph Papineau, takes you back to the days of 19th-century Quebec aristocracy and the legacy of the Rebellions of 1837–38.

220A Bonsecours Street, Montebello

Besides preserving and promoting the history of Louis-Joseph Papineau, the Société maintains archives and presents exhibitions and events highlighting the legacy of this key figure in the fight for rights and freedoms in Quebec.

1 Front Street, Gatineau (Aylmer)

Built in 1831 by Charles Symmes, the founder of Aylmer and nephew of Philemon Wright, the inn was for decades the main stop on the Outaouais road network. Psst: it seems that paranormal phenomena have been observed here.

MacKenzie King Road, Chelsea

A jewel of Gatineau Park! Designed by William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada’s 10th prime minister, this 231-hectare estate features restored cottages, historic ruins, flower gardens and walking trails. A precious legacy managed and protected by the NCC.

51 Kingsmere Road, Chelsea

Garden culture (flowers) is one of the three pillars of Sheffield Gardens, the other two being the preservation of heritage and the enhancement of the arts. Established in 1821, the farm has proudly been in operation for over two centuries.

45 Wakefield Heights Road, La Pêche

Built in 1861, the William Fairbairn family homestead now offers exhibitions, guided tours, and access to walking trails near Wakefield’s famous red covered bridge. Learn about local history at this landmark of the Collines-de-l’Outaouais.

314 Route 148, Mansfield-et-Pontefract

This elegant house, designated a historic site by the Province of Quebec, is located just down the road from Quebec’s longest covered bridge. Visit the museum to discover the fascinating history of the Pontiac region and the Bryson family, and explore the genealogical archives to track down your ancestors.

100 Promenade du Parc-des-Chutes, Mansfield-et-Pontefract

Step back in time to the days of the log drive at Chutes Coulonge Park. Take the self-guided walk, where interpretive panels trace the history of the loggers who once braved the rapids of the Coulonge River.

Des Oblats Street, Maniwaki

Visit the free theme park featuring the Pythonga, a vintage tugboat once used to tow logs across the Baskatong Reservoir.

100 Laurier Street, Gatineau

Fascinating exhibitions about bygone days and forgotten lives, and opportunities to learn about our country’s rich and diverse Indigenous heritage. A nostalgic journey through the living pages of Canadian history.

1 Vimy Place, Ottawa

Relive the compelling history of the conflicts that shaped the country, through iconic artifacts, exhibitions on the First and Second World Wars, and poignant stories of courage and sacrifice.

320 Sussex Drive, Ottawa

Learn the secrets behind the money you’ve been carrying in your wallet for years. Coins are exchanged by taking used or defective coins to a bank or royal mint, where they are counted, sorted, and replaced with new coins.

627 Notre-Dame Street, Montebello

Besides serving beautiful custom desserts in a colourful setting reminiscent of the Bridgerton series, La Belle Pâtissière has won Canada’s Baking and Sweets Show’s wedding cake contest and been featured on the Food Network’s The Big Bake 2. One of its creations even made the cover of American Cake Decorating magazine!

489 Notre-Dame St., Montebello

A true Montebello institution, this restaurant evokes the nostalgia of a bygone era with its meticulously prepared classic dishes and warm ambience. The chef’s mission is to bring out the best in local and seasonal ingredients.

133 Principale Street, Saint-André-Avellin

Kîsisam, “she who bakes with fire,” celebrates Indigenous culinary heritage through sweet creations that blend traditional flavours with a modern touch. The essence of generations and the art of Indigenous storytelling are baked into every bite.

61 Laurier Street, Gatineau

Bobino Bagel was inspired by the iconic Bobino character created by Guy Sanche, who enchanted the childhoods of many Quebecers with his TV show that aired from 1957 to 1985. Born in the Outaouais, he grew up just a stone’s throw from the bagel shop.

15 Kingsmere Road, Chelsea

Founded in 1978 by Chef Blain, L’Orée du Bois is a rustic restaurant that combines classic French cuisine with local Quebec flavours. A popular dining spot for more than 40 years, it’s a culinary mainstay in the Outaouais.

757 Riverside Road, Wakefield

Decorated with owls and an emblematic clock, this restaurant is a throwback to the good old days. Enjoy your meal under the benevolent gaze of these nocturnal guardians, who are always on time, and take in the view of the Gatineau River.

88 Route 105, Wakefield

Enjoy the retro vibe of Jean Burger, with its friendly atmosphere and varied menu of tasty burgers and decadent poutines. This iconic roadside restaurant has been delighting visitors with its authentic local fare since 1978.

60 Mill Road, La Pêche

Steeped in history, La Muse offers a menu that combines French and Quebec traditions with local produce and international influences. Enjoy wine and food pairings in a cozy solarium setting overlooking MacLaren Falls.

545 Notre-Dame Street, Montebello

From the window of your room, admire the view of the church, the beautiful garden, the pool and the pavilion. Enjoy the nostalgic charm of the Art Deco-inspired 1930s furniture, like something out of Downtown Abbey.

392 Notre-Dame Street, Montebello

Built in just three months in 1930, Fairmont Le Château Montebello is the world’s largest log castle. Today, this architectural showpiece offers 210 rooms, fine local cuisine and more than 40 activities.

165 Principale Street, Saint-André-Avellin

Discover Gil Ann Bed & Breakfast, a historic Victorian brick house dating back to the late 1800s. A former family residence, it now offers retro charm with its period décor.

826 Côte à Favier, Namur

Built in the 19th century, this former meeting place charms guests with its historic ambience and captivating exhibitions, creative retreats, and comfortable accommodation. Artists, travellers, entrepreneurs—all are welcome!

218 Montée Lafontaine, Montpellier

Built in the early 1900s, this former monastery is set in 67 hectares (165 acres) of woodland on the shore of Lac Vert in Petite Nation. With its elegant architecture and period gardens, the Château takes you back in time.

60 Mill Road, La Pêche

Built in 1838 by Scottish immigrant William Fairbairn, the Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa originally served as a flour mill powered by the rushing waters of MacLaren Falls. Ravaged by fire in 1910, rebuilt as a flour and grist mill, then converted to a heritage museum, it has now become a distinctive boutique hotel.

801 Riverside Road, La Pêche

Discover this historic B&B in the heart of Wakefield, overlooking the Gatineau River. Each of the five guest rooms in this magnificent Victorian house is decorated with modern luxuries in a manner that still respects its heritage.

1418 Route 105, Chelsea

At Motel Chelsea, local art and vintage touches meet modern convenience. Stay in a suite or a room with creative décor, such as “Les Palmiers,” where you’ll be charmed by the fun and eco-friendly vibe.

71 Principale Street, Gatineau

This 19th-century heritage building opened as a luxury hotel in 1885. Fully restored, it has three spacious suites and seven comfortable guest rooms, all accessible by elevator from the main lobby.

204 Principale Street, Fort-Coulonge

Built in 1875 by George Bryson, Jr., and his bride Helen Craig, Spruceholme is a historic gem, symbolizing an important regional heritage reflected in its architecture. This unique venue is a prominent landmark in the area.

202 Main Street, Shawville

This heritage house, built in 1898, offers a journey back in time with its two elegant guest rooms, each with private bath. Enjoy a restful night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast. The owner has truly worked magic with this place, you’ll see!

12 Comeau Street, Maniwaki

Built in 1927, Château Logue was originally a prestigious hotel that welcomed travellers in the days of the railway. It became a symbol of luxury and comfort in the region, reflecting Maniwaki’s economic development in the early 20th century.