Discover the many flavours of the Pontiac
The Pontiac is distinguished by its environmental diversity. With fertile plains and dense forests, the region offers quality products that are the pride of local producers. Farms, orchards and vineyards dot the landscape, each with their own specialty. A visit is an opportunity to taste freshly picked fruits, sun-drenched vegetables and high-quality meats. This is where nature and know-how meet to create exceptional products.
The Pontiac Land & Flavour Route
As the saying goes: “No trip to the Pontiac is complete without a detour to the Land & Flavour Route!” It’s a great opportunity to support the local economy while tasting the best of this beautiful region in the Outaouais. And as a bonus, there’s The Great Pontiac Poutine Trail, an itinerary of about twenty restaurants and snack shacks. Do you like squeaky cheese curds or grated cheese? Brown gravy, BBQ, or both? The choice is yours!
Drive along Route 148 and discover routes in the countryside where you’ll find fresh products and comfortable accommodations. By the way, have you ever taken Route 148 in Vanlife mode? What are you waiting for? Enjoy impressive landscapes, convenient pit stops, perfect places to relax and little local treasures. For a quick getaway or in slow travel mode, the 148 has everything to please road trip enthusiasts!
Tap & Cork: taste local spirits
Are you more of the beer, wine and spirits type? The Pontiac Tap & Cork Route is for you! Not only does this self-guided tour let you discover the best wines, beers, ciders and spirits in the Pontiac, but this route is the ideal opportunity to meet local creators. On your way, you’ll come across the the Little Red Wagon Winery and the Coronation Hall Cider Mills!
With Aventure Outaouais, you can also check out the Pontiac Wine and Cider Trail! At each stage of the journey, the craftsmen will share their stories with you and testify to their passion for their work. When you discover the region in this way, you contribute to sustainable tourism by supporting local practices. Remember: moderation makes everything taste much better and a designated driver is a must!
From farm to plate
Throughout the Pontiac region, you’ll find different farms and markets where you can spend the day and stock up on local products.
It’s essential to start your trip with a dose of love for animals. Willow Lane Alpacas will melt your heart for sure! Next, stock up on yak meat at Pure Conscience Farm, which promotes bio-intensive agriculture. Finally, visit a medicinal plant farm at the Apothecary La Fée des Bois, which offers ecological products, grown and processed directly on the farm!
Stop by the Bristol Market throughout the seasons to make the most of local expertise at special events. Find out about opening hours. While you’re there, take a well-deserved break at Norway Bay’s beautiful public beach. From Bristol to Fort-Coulonge, a variety of choices await you. Go ahead and discover them!
Gourmet stops
It’s food time! Come and enjoy the delights of the Pontiac! Enjoy quality coffee or indulge in their selection of microbrewery beers.
Sugar lovers, get ready! The Boulangerie Maison du Pontiac is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. But before the sweets, try the famous smoked meat sandwiches; they’re a real treat! Finish in bliss with doughnuts that melt in your mouth!
Book a stay in the middle of the countryside
Why not turn your discovery day into a staycation? After all these beautiful discoveries and rich encounters, stay overnight at Circa Shawville, a heritage house built in 1898 converted into a bed and breakfast (B&B). Psst… The owner will make you a great, homemade breakfast. Yum!
There’s also the Spruceholme Inn, a lavish traditional house built in 1875. Needless to say, this estate is an important jewel in the history of the region!
If you want something more unusual, try HillHaus Dômes Pontiac or Chalets Prunella! You’ll fall under the spell of these unique accommodations, guaranteed!
Let’s be honest, it makes you want to stay. Cycling enthusiasts will also find their way around the Cycloparc PPJ, an over 92 km bike path and natural park built around an old railway line between Bristol and Isle-aux-Allumettes.
+
To take full advantage of what the Pontiac has to offer, check out the full list of things to do to plan your visit. The important thing is to have fun!
