Outaouais Travel guide
Outaouais Travel guide
A Region of Contrasts
The Outaouais is a region where nature, culture and urban life blend together to offer its visitors a dream experience. The enchanting calm of the nature parks, the enriching experience of the museums and the bustling cities alive with activities will surely charm you during your visit of the Outaouais region.
The Outaouais region, which was discovered by Samuel de Champlain in 1613, was first inhabited by the Outaouaks First Nation, then by the Loyalists who decided to settle permanently in the region. Nowadays, the territory of the region is divided into five areas, and its proximity to the city of Ottawa in Ontario allows the region to experience a permanent cultural exchange.
Nature is everywhere in the Outaouais region, as visitors can see with the numerous parks and natural preserves that dot the territory. More than 20,000 glimmering lakes, as well as dozens of rushing rivers and boiling falls contributed to carving the scenery of the region. Outdoor lovers truly enjoy the region, since they can go biking, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, as well as cross-country and alpine skiing.
Culture is also an important characteristic of the region, and you will not be disappointed by the many museums scattered in the region, like the Canadian Museum of Civilisation and the Canada Museum of Science and Technology, in Ottawa. Art galleries abound in the region as well, while theatres and concert halls offer brilliant performances of local and international artists. Do not forget the Casino, where visitors can often attend shows.
Year round, the Outaouais region lives to the rhythm of its events and festivals such as the Canadian Tulip Festival or the Hot Air Balloon Festival. The region also offers its visitors many accommodation establishments, each pone being more charming than the other. Whether you choose a hotel, an inn or a bed & breakfast, you will discover the warm welcome the inhabitants reserve you.
