Slow and responsible travel in the Outaouais
What if we gave ourselves the gift of slowing down? Imagine exploring each place with great curiosity, savouring every moment. Take a leisurely stroll in harmony with the environment. While you’re in the Outaouais, discover the art of slow travel. In other words, choose a sustainable form of tourism: travel s-l-o-w-l-y!
What is slow travel?
Inspired by the “slow food” movement of the 1980s, which invites you to rediscover the pleasure of eating well and locally, slow travel encourages you to travel healthier. Slow down and enjoy the little things!
Plan to stay longer in more remote destinations, or vacation closer to home. Use sustainable transport. Limit your travel, meet the locals, and enjoy activities in harmony with nature. Above all, make environmentally conscious choices.
Slow tourism in the Outaouais
Get away from it all
In our beautiful region, there are several cozy cocoons where you can spend a few quiet nights. Turn off your digital devices, step onto the balcony, and listen to the birds. Whether you choose Chalets Prunella, Terre & Neige or HOM Mini Chalets, you’ll be reconnected with what really matters.
Recharge your batteries in these luxurious, unconventional accommodations where time stands still so you can take care of yourself. Just like guests’ wellbeing, protecting and preserving the natural environment is very much part of their concept.
Chalets Prunella are all energy efficient. | Terre & Neige offers baskets of local produce. | HOM Mini Chalets are built on piles to reduce their ecological footprint and maintain the local ecosystem.
Indulge your curiosity!
The art of slow tourism also means immersing yourself in the natural landscapes of the Outaouais. Contemplate the calm, clear waters of Lake Edja while doing some paddleboarding at Camping CarpeDiem. Extend the pleasure with a two-night stay in a suspended tent with the Expérience Outaouais package. At the Corporation du parc régional du lac des 31 Milles, you can canoe to a deserted island and set up camp to the call of the loons. You’ll be isolated from light pollution … all you’ll see are fireflies and stars.
Discover the different species of wild mushrooms and learn more about the flora and fauna of the Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve. Another great place to stay in the forest is Kenauk Nature! Thanks to its eco-friendly cabins and vast protected property, you’ll be immersed in a natural environment for a long time.
Some of the trees in the Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve are more than 400 years old.
Opt for proximity and convenience
All-in-one oases are the perfect choice for avoiding unnecessary travel and making the most of a location. Fairmont Le Château Montebello has everything you need: a spacious patio, swimming and water sports, cycling, tennis, mini-golf, and much more!
At the Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa, let yourself sink into the relaxed atmosphere. Unwind in the hot tubs, treat yourself to a massage, and enjoy a meal prepared with fresh local produce. You’ll never want to leave this restful spot!
The Minitik Inn at Village Majopial resort is another popular slow travel destination. In one place, you can enjoy nature, eat hearty meals, sleep soundly, and watch the sun set over Thirty-One-Mile Lake.
The Auberge Couleurs de France in Duhamel is set in the heart of a maple grove near Petit Lac Preston. You can hike in the forest and explore the lake by canoe to discover the local flora and fauna, while learning the secrets of the ancestral skill of trapping.
Fairmont is recognized for having some of the best green programs in North America, and the Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Green Key certified.
Choose sustainable mobility
Incorporate greener practices into your activities by choosing more sustainable means of transport. Use the NCC’s free shuttle service to get to Gatineau Park, or rent an electric bike from Nomades du Parc. Take the Voyageurs Pathway to cycle to downtown Gatineau. Not only will you see the Outaouais in a different way, but you’ll also be doing something concrete to reduce your carbon footprint.
Known as the green lung of the Outaouais, Gatineau Park covers more than 361 square kilometres and is home to a rich and unique biodiversity.
Pay attention to your surroundings
Wherever you go, look out for the region’s special features and riches. From small local farms like Pure Conscience Farm to gourmet tables like Les Fougères restaurant, get to know the people behind these local enterprises and all the work that goes into their unique local products.
Ask a thousand and one questions and find out why things are done the way they are. Why does Kîsisam Pâtisserie use sweet clover in its bannock bread? What does Khewa, the name of the Indigenous arts and crafts shop, mean? Marvel at every detail, and appreciate local art, culture, heritage, and expertise.
Sweet clover is often called boreal vanilla or Indigenous vanilla. | “Khewa” is the Cree word for “north wind,” a wind that gently carries us home to our traditions.
By exploring the region slowly, you’re supporting the local economy, protecting the environment, and encouraging social initiatives. Here are some ideas for tours that encourage this responsible way of sightseeing:
Destination Petite Nation for nature and art
Back to basics on a local farm and in the surrounding area
Fine food, local products and cycling
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