A ROMANTIC GETAWAY IN THE PONTIAC
My partner and I share a passion for car trips. Kilometres of road, scenery, new horizons—bring ‘em on!
By a happy coincidence, there’s lots to discover in the Pontiac. Head west from Aylmer for a two-day winter escapade packed with discoveries!
What to do
BOOK YOUR PACKAGE AT ESCAPADE HUSKIMO
The couple in front of us during our adventure was enthralled, with blissful smiles on their faces. It’s true that during the experience, you have to admit that a dog sledding outing is an activity that fills you with complete happiness. The hush of winter, the swiftness of the dogs, the fresh air … It’s a unique feeling, both peaceful and full of adrenaline.
The Sprint package will give you the opportunity to drive a dog sled for 5 to 10 minutes, and after that you’re sure to want to go again, on a longer trail! Caroline and Sylvain, the owners of Escapade Huskimo, are welcoming, warm and generous. If you’re worried about the cold, they have clothes, boots and mittens that are made to withstand the extreme temperatures.
GO ON A SNOWSHOEING EXPEDITION
Go on an adventure at Aventure Hélianthe! Hikers and snowshoers can take advantage of some 30 kilometres of marked trails. You’ll trek through the magnificent Davidson forest with its awe-inspiring scenery natural hidden gems. You can go on a guided excursion to the various summits, over one or several days, for an introduction to winter camping.
Where to eat
The Café Downtown, at Fort-Coulonge, is worth going out of your way. The Café is located in a building that dates back to 1940 and, with its hand-written menus on a chalkboard and its rustic decor, has an immediately welcoming ambiance. As for the food, their paninis and soups are each just as flavourful and comforting as the next. All that’s left is to have a glass of wine or a good Quebecois beer while listening to a live music performance.
In the mood for a sweet treat? Visit the Pontiac Home Bakery, the sweetest bakery in Eastern Canada. Colourful cupcakes, iced doughnuts, cream pies, fresh bread and more! There’s something to satisfy everyone. For breakfast and lunch, you’ll find hot and delicious meals. You can’t go wrong with one of their famous smoked meat sandwiches.
Where to sleep
SPEND THE NIGHT IN UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS
Geometric domes are an excellent place to rest and recuperate. Head over to HillHaus Dômes Pontiac in Shawville or Natural Resting Point—Lakeside Glamping next to Mansfield-et-Pontefract to fully immerse yourself in nature. Take advantage of the outdoor activities offered at these accommodations and end your day with some stargazing.
For another unique experience, plan a trip to one of the Chalets Prunella in Ladysmith. The luxurious comfort and accommodations on offer will leave you speechless. Relax in the spa and head back inside to warm up by a wood fire. You’ll be a glamping convert in no time!
STAY AT THE AUBERGE
The Auberge Spruceholme Inn is a historic institution, once the home of Georges Bryson, the lumber baron of Fort-Coulonge. Each room is painstakingly decorated in the Victorian style. If you have the chance to meet her, Jane Toller, the owner, will surely take a moment to show you each room in the house and explain her great-grandfather’s history and that of the community, which was very involved in the lumber industry. You will be amazed by the rich culture of the Pontiac.
BOOK A STAY AT A RESORT
Winter at the Pine Lodge is the ideal time and place to do your favourite winter activities and to be warm and cozy inside. These picturesque lodgings are located near the Ottawa River, where you can make the most of the walking trails and ice-skating rink. There are also cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, and a groomed tubing hill.
*Before visiting any of the attractions in this blog, check their winter hours.
The Pontiac promises stunning scenery, warm welcomes and magical moments to share with your lover. What are you waiting for? Take a romantic road trip!
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Other articles that might interest you:
- 100 activities to put on your bucket list for an amazing winter!
- Camping, glamping and cottages: where to stay in nature this winter
- Must-try downtown restaurants
