June 28, 2024 - Québec’s Outaouais region is where happiness on two wheels can be found on five official cycling routes that are unique to each municipal county, including Petite Nation, Collines-de-l’Outaouais, the City of Gatineau, Vallée-de-la-Gatineau and Pontiac.

Discover Petite Nation on the 129km route “On the Road to Papineau” that begins at Fairmont Le Château Montebello, the world’s largest log cabin. Discover Thurso, the hometown of Canadian hockey legend Guy Lafleur, parc national de Plaisance and the unique 75th meridian sundial just before Papineauville.

Renowned Gatineau Park in Collines-de-l’Outaouais offers exceptional cycling networks including the 80km “Thighs of Steel” route. Take in breathtaking views like the Champlain Lookout and make a pit stop at the luxurious Moulin Wakefield Mill Hôtel & Spa in this green paradise with countless sporting options.

The City of Gatineau with close to 300km of trails is another cycling gem featuring historic routes like the Voyageurs pathway that stretches for an easy 30km along the Ottawa River. Take in the Maison du vélo, the Canadian Museum of History, the Hôtel-Casino Lac-Leamy and enjoy a meal at any of the fabulous restaurants.

For more breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable cycling adventure, the 72km Véloroute des Draveurs (log drivers’ bike route) is a dedicated bike route that’s part of the Trans Canada Trail. Built on an old railway line, the trail features ecosystems with marshes, rivers, beautiful forests and crystal-clear Blue Sea Lake.

In Pontiac, the western part of the Outaouais region, take on the intermediate level 164km circuit route that starts in the charming town of Shawville on a mix of on-road and recreation trails. Enjoy views of the Ottawa River, historic and natural sites including the Coulonge Falls, and the many gourmet stops along the way.

Read more about cycling in Québec’s Outaouais Region here.
Order a copy of Best Cycling Great Escapes 2024 featuring Québec’s Outaouais Region and many more spots here.