If someone asked me what a classic Canadian winter vacation looks like, I’d point them to THIS itinerary. I mean, where else can you go on a winter safari, stay at the world’s largest log cabin, taste Indigenous cuisine AND experience unique winter activities?! This is Outaouais Québec and it’s a DREAM destination for families…
What To Do In Outaouais
Winter Safari At Parc Oméga
Did you know that Canada has a scenic winter safari?! I did not. The 12 km route at Parc Oméga is such a unique way to immerse yourself in Quebec’s nature. Best part? You can drive through at your own pace, feed some wildlife along the way and you can even get out of your car at designated spots for some close encounters! Our son Luka will NEVER ever forget this experience…
Plan to spend the entire day here with lunch at OmegaBon (where you can dine with a view of arctic foxes!) and stay for Oniro: What Do Animals Dream Of? which is an illuminated forest trail you can walk through in the evenings. It’s pure magic and will transport you to a different realm…
Dog-Sledding With Chiens de Traîneaux Gatineau
How thrilling it is to be whisked off by a team of dogs who yearn to run! I’ve been dog-sledding on a few occasions, but this was the first time we took little Luka (8). He was all smiles from the moment he met the excited dogs until we stepped off the cozy sled. Thankfully, we had a musher (it’s lots of work otherwise) which makes it a really comfortable and fun activity for families. Oh and Chiens de Traîneaux Gatineau is a multi-gen family business with more than 30 years of experience so you can rest assured they take great care of their dogs and guests!
Skiing at Camp Fortune
The last time I was in Outaouais, me and my friend Krystle went zip lining at Camp Fortune. This time, my family experienced a completely different side of the property. Located in beautiful Gatineau Park, Camp Fortune has 24 runs for expert, intermediate and beginner skiers and snowboarders so plan to spend the entire day here.
Chocolate Tasting At ChocoMotive
This family-owned artisanal chocolate company is located inside the historic Montebello train station. Here you can sample their mouthwatering, fair trade chocolate and purchase some to take home (if you have better self-control than we did LOL). Fun fact: ChocoMotive is an economuseum (essentially a living museum where skilled craftspeople share traditional techniques) so you can also learn about the chocolate making process via self-guided tour.
Rideau Canal Skateway
Depending on what part of Outaouais you’re exploring, you may be a short drive from Ottawa. If you’re nearby like we were (20 min drive), I highly recommend popping over to the Rideau Canal Skateway. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s largest skating rink with a length of 7.8 km! This is definitely an iconic Canadian winter activity so we took Luka for his very first canal skate which he LOVED.
Visit The Canadian Museum of History and Canadian Children’s Museum
We always try to squeeze in a museum day or two when we travel. Fortunately, this region is home to one of my faves. The Canadian Museum of History was designed by Indigenous architect Douglas Cardinal and is one of the most beautiful indoor spaces I’ve seen in the country. I love the Grand Hall so much — it’s built in the shape of a canoe and is devoted to Indigenous cultures of Canada’s Pacific Northwest.
Your admission also includes entry to the incredible Children’s Museum (which is located in the same building) so you’ll have plenty to explore when you visit!
Where To Stay In Outaouais
Fairmont Le Château Montebello
For classic Canadian accommodations, look no further than Fairmont Le Château Montebello. This is the world’s largest log cabin and a true architectural masterpiece. It’s the kind of place that holds many forever memories. You’ll feel the magic as soon as you step foot inside their jaw-dropping lobby…
Fairmont Le Château Montebello is reason alone to visit the region. And with over 40 activities included with your stay, it kinda feels like an elevated family camp! Trust me, your family will NOT be bored. We tried cross-country skiing, curling, snowshoeing and ice hockey during our visit…
And when we needed to thaw, we relaxed by the cozy fireplaces in the lobby and took a dip in the hot tub and stunning pool…
Lofts du Village in Chelsea
If you prefer to stay and play like a local when you’re in Outaouais, I highly recommend Lofts du Village in Chelsea. Here you’ll be walking distance from quaint shops and restaurants, North America’s largest spa and Gatineau Park. I’ve stayed here before and just love the energy of the space. Note: they don’t have amenities and you may need to climb some stairs to reach your unit, but the location and stunning lofts more than make up for it. Nothing like having a full kitchen and living room when travelling as a family!
Where To Eat In Outaouais
Biscotti & Cie
One of my favourite things about staying at Lofts du Village in Chelsea is waking up and popping across the street for breakfast at Biscotti & cie! This is such a cozy neighbourhood café with fantastic coffee and freshly-baked goods. The upstairs nook is our fave…
Caméline
Named one of Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants in 2024, I went into Caméline with high expectations. And honestly, they delivered. This is the kind of place you’ll want to gather with friends and family — the vibes, service and food are all 10/10. They seamlessly shine a spotlight on seasonal local ingredients and honour authentic Italian cuisine. When you dine here, don’t skip the handmade pastas and fresh seafood from Quebec!
Kîsisam Pâtisserie
What. A. Gem. The unique Indigenous flavours. The storytelling. The amount of love and care that’s gone into every little detail. Wow. This spot is a must-visit when in/near Outaouais. Kîsisam means “she who bakes with fire” and is dreamt up by Dominique Lalonde who is a charismatic and talented Indigenous pastry chef. Trust me, your palate will be awakened as she gives you a glimpse of her rich culinary heritage. Try everything she recommends! Cloudberry, bison, birch syrup, cedar jelly, clavalier pepper and many other unique ingredients await.
Aux Chantignoles
Located inside Fairmont Le Château Montebello, Aux Chantignoles is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. But the restaurant really shines in the evenings with elevated cuisine, attentive service and a warm ambiance. Everything is cooked to perfection and presented beautifully making it a great spot to celebrate special occasions.
Le Bistro Montebello
Le Bistro Montebello has been around since 1994 and is known for their wood-fired pizzas. Their menu is lined with comfort food and the vibe is very family-friendly so add it to your itinerary if you’re travelling with kiddos!
Bistro Coquelicorne
If you’re looking for a solid brunch spot in the region, head to Bistro Coquelicorne on Sundays and enjoy their hearty dishes. It’s a lively bistro that’s popular amongst locals so book ahead or you may need to wait. Their portions are quite generous so arrive hungry!
Nymark
Inspired by Victor Nymark, the Master builder of Fairmont Le Château Montebello, Nymark offers a dining experience that combines traditional Quebecois recipes with contemporary culinary techniques. The focus here is on sustainability with regional products getting the spotlight. The service is on point and they even have a mini stage so (if you’re lucky) you may catch a live performance!
Chelsea Pub
This gastropub is much-loved by locals and is a casual restaurant that hits the spot on cold winter days. Chelsea Pub has great happy hour specials, amazing craft beer, free ski shots for groups of four after 9 pm AND their kids’ meals are $14 (with 50% off on Sundays after 4 pm)!
Roberto Pizza Romana
Last, but certainly not least, do NOT leave Outaouais without popping into Roberto Pizza Romana where you can devour a slice (or two) of authentic Roman-style pizza. Their sourdough crust is heavenly and made with organic Quebec flour that’s been fermented for 48 hours. Topped with quality Italian and local ingredients, it’s a slice you won’t soon forget! I know I haven’t…
Regardless of where you stay/play/eat in Outaouais, this region will surprise you. It’s one of my favourite winter destinations in Canada and, with the itinerary listed above, I’m certain it will quickly become yours too!
A huge thanks to Outaouais Tourism for hosting us on this press trip and sponsoring this post. As always, opinions are my very own.
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