Founded in 1878, at the eastern edge of Québec's Outaouais region, there is a place that binds together the perfect pairing of outdoor experiences and gourmet discoveries. The Montebello village is a hidden gem for nature’s lush grounds and a site for gourmet gastronomy all ending with rest in the lap of luxury. Throw in a bistro, microbrewery, fromagerie and chocolate factory, one may never want to leave—it is like being in France without ever having to leave Canada.
Montebello’s Outdoor Wonderland
A four-season destination, Montebello is surrounded by hills, forests and fields, making it an ideal spot for outdoor adventures. Running the gamut of activities from hiking and cycling to fishing and hunting. Visit National Parks and wildlife Reserves showcasing unique flora and fauna, exceptional ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes. Parc Omega takes visitors through 12km of winding roads through an 890-hectare park. From the comfort of your vehicle, learn about different species living in their natural habitat. Discover the nature, wildlife, history and culture of the 11 First Nations of Québec. The Park has added a brand-new illuminated night trail to highlight nature's beauty. Parc des Montagnes Noires de Ripon allows outdoor enthusiasts to explore an 800-acre forest merging the woodland environment of the Petite Nation with the agricultural landscape. There are 17 trails for hiking, mountain biking, fat biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and board sports. The 12-metre observation tower presents a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view at the lookout onto Mont Grand-Pic, 426 metres above sea level, you can admire the Petite Nation valley.
@G LeroyerA Luxurious Cabin in the Woods
It does not get more Canadian than this. Fairmont Le Château Montebello holds the title for the world's largest log cabin, combing the great outdoors and lavish luxury. This architectural wonder houses 210 guestrooms and two restaurants with fare that highlights regional products. The fireplace in the lobby is the centrepiece of the magnificent, cozy room as it rises all the way up to the wood panel ceiling—an ideal place to curl up with a loved one and soak in the ambiance. No matter the reason or the season, guests can enjoy 40 activities onsite and afterwards find their zen and indulge in one of the treatments offered at the Fairmont Le Château Montebello Spa. Nestled on the side of a rolling green hill, overlooking the marina, river and the surrounding forest, guests will feel right at home in a traditional Québec setting.
Fairmont Le Château MontebelloGourmet Stops Until You Drop
After a fun-filled day in the boundless outdoors, it is time to make your palate dance. With so many culinary delights to choose from, a combination of Montebello’s very best craft, culinary and local staples will do the trick.
To start, sample a local brew from Les Brasseurs de Montebello, the perfect way to taste the region. The brews promote the heritage of the Outaouais, its artists and its community. Many of the beers are named after people and events that took place in the Outaouais and Montebello. For example, The Great Fire 1913 is a smoked IPA with notes of red fruits thanks to its Redbeard and Mosaic hops. The Kenauk Ale is a blend of specialty malts, such as Biscuit malt, giving it a subtle taste that embraces the fruity and woody side of hops and forest honey. Named after The Kenauk Nature Reserve located in Montebello, it is one of the largest and oldest private fish and game reserves in North America.
Next, take your tastebuds to Le Bistro de Montebello. This 200-year-old building was turned into the Bistro, which offers a family-style menu of pub-style cuisine made with local ingredients. It is well known for its wood-fired pizza. The bistro provides two distinct venues: at the front, you will find a more intimate and cozy setting while the spacious room boasts church pew seats along its walls and where diners can watch the pizzaiolos at work.
@Myriam Baril-TessierNow the fun really begins at the Fromagerie Montebello. Opening its doors in 2011, the Fromagerie Montebello creates quality products and sells locally made fresh cheese, cheese curd, cheese strings and fine cheeses, as well as a selection of cheeses from across Québec. Their local specialties include fresh bread, homemade pâtés and jams and their cheeses come with a side of history—the perfect way to enjoy local products and learn about the destination. The Tête à Papineau is made with pasteurized cow's milk, semi-firm paste, washed crust, and matured for 60 days. Its name refers to a popular Québec expression: “Ça ne prend pas la tête à Papineau!” which is associated with the highly intelligent and talented speaker, Louis-Joseph Papineau, who named his property Montebello in 1855, which officially founded the town a few years later. On the label of the cheese, the Fromagerie recognizes the manor that the lord had built in Montebello. Other delectable cheeses include the Rebellion 1837, boasting a creamy texture featuring rustic notes and forest mushrooms, Manchebello offers a firm texture with a sugar, hazelnut and a meadow flowers flavour while the Adoray is strapped with spruce wood and has a salted butter, chips and spices taste.
And the final pièce de resistance, ChocoMotive—the art of chocolate never tasted so sweet. This artisanal chocolate company only uses chocolate, sugar and cocoa that are certified organic and fair trade. ChocoMotive offers a traditional array of pralines and seasonal molded treats, as well as an assortment of organic and fair-trade chocolates made with local ingredients. In August 2010, ChocoMotive moved into the former Montebello station and became the first Economuseum—a craft or agri-food company that uses an authentic technique or know-how for its production—in the Outaouais region. Visitors can shop and watch chocolate being made in the open workshop. ChocoMotive is a unique destination to satisfy your sweet tooth, and a place to take in the precision and dedication of local craftmanship while producing a high-quality product that is beloved across the world.
No matter where you plan to travel, make sure you check the Travel Advice and Advisories page for your destination twice: once when you are planning your trip, and again shortly before you leave. Safety and security conditions may change between the date you book your travel and your departure date.
