This route is called Chemins d’eau (waterways) because it runs parallel to the Ottawa and Gatineau rivers. Passing through hills and villages, the route reveals to us fragments of history, Québec wildlife and lush nature. You can even sleep with the wolves!
278 km
You can travel along the Chemins d’eau by car, motorcycle or bike. However, a trip to Parc Oméga is best done by car.
Unforgettable moments
Regions
Montebello: enjoying the animals and chocolate
Head to Parc Oméga for a car safari among Québec wildlife. As you drive along, you’ll be able to observe bison, wapitis, bears, deer, boars and wolves roaming freely. At night, you can even sleep with the wolves! Ahoou!
Late in the afternoon, a stop at ChocoMotive for a treat is a must. It’ll also be a chance to visit its interpretation centre and workshop. They use organic, fair-trade certified chocolate and sugar. You’ll think you’re in heaven!
Plaisance: its waterfalls and national park
The day begins with the sound of waterfalls. With a 63-m drop, the falls are impressive! A 1-km path links the base with the summit. A historic lodge, activities and a lookout make this an ideal picnic spot.
Parc national de Plaisance is alive with birds. Herons, ospreys, ducks and other species come out to greet you. Hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking and camping add to your pleasure of exploring the Ottawa River. Did you remember your binoculars?
On the banks of the Lièvre
Visit the Buckingham historical society museum to discover the history of Buckingham and its surrounding area through artefacts, photos, texts and interactive tablets.
Spend the rest of the day on the water. At this nautical centre, you can rent various types of small crafts, such as kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, rabaskaws and paddle boards. What do you prefer, rowing or pedalling?
From Gatineau to La Pêche: history and a maze
Get a cultural start to the day at the Canadian Museum of History, with its exhibitions and history of First Peoples. Meanwhile, the little ones can have fun in the Children’s Museum. The building’s architecture alone is worth the trip.
Éco-Odyssée’s walking and water mazes let you discover the beaver habitat. Different routes are possible by canoe or paddle boat, or on foot. An adventure that involves a bit of strategy! Go left or go right? Oops, I think we’re lost...
From La Pêche to Gatineau
Spend the morning at the Fairnbairn House. This 160-year-old house and its heritage barn feature various educational, historical and artistic exhibits. You’ll discover the history of the lower Gatineau River valley.
Still on the Chemins d’eau route, the Symmes Inn Museum, on the shores of the Ottawa River is a must-see! Classified as a historic monument, this former inn reveals its story and that of its ghost, Hannah...
Chemins d’eau: waterfalls and rafting
Exercising the mind with culture is great, but we also need to exercise the body a bit. A deep breath of Gatineau Park’s clean air and we’re ready to climb the 300-m trail leading to Luskville Falls. The view from the top is spectacular!
Hold on tight, because this afternoon promises to be exciting at Horizon X Rafting. The river’s rapids are... well, rapid, but the thrill is intense. The adrenaline rush is at the max. At the end, you’ll be soaked, but feeling on top of the world!
Elegant house and aerial course
This morning, we’ll think we’re still dreaming when we visit the elegant house that belonged to Georges Bryson. It features exhibits and 19th-century furniture. We can also have afternoon tea there, in elegant style!
We end our journey on this route by taking to the air at the Chutes Coulonge Park: treetop obstacle courses, mega zip lines and via ferrata. An interpretation trail also tells the history of logging.
