The Ultimate Road Trip: The Top Places to See When Driving from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Candiac, Quebec
Looking for an adventure? Look no further than the road from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Candiac, Quebec. This scenic route offers stunning views, historic landmarks, and unique attractions. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, there's something for everyone on this road trip.
So buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Eastern Canada. Here are the top places to see when driving from Old Ottawa to Candiac.
Experience the Beauty of the Outaouais Region
The Outaouais region is full of natural wonders, charming small towns, and gourmet food. Here are some must-see places along the way.
- Parc national de Plaisance - This national park is a birdwatcher's paradise. With over 250 species of birds, it's the perfect place to pack a picnic and spend an afternoon enjoying nature. The park also has hiking trails and a beach for swimming.
- Wakefield - This small town is known for its picturesque covered bridge and quaint shops and restaurants. Stop for a coffee at the Wakefield Mill Inn & Spa, which is housed in a restored 19th-century mill.
- Fairbairn House - Located in Wakefield, this historic house is a must-see for anyone interested in Canadian history. The house was built in 1861 by James Patrick Whelan, who was suspected of assassinating Thomas D'Arcy McGee, one of the Fathers of Confederation.
- Gatineau Park - This park has over 165 km of hiking trails, scenic drives, and stunning vistas. It's a popular spot for picnicking, camping, and canoeing in the summer, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
- Biscotti & Cie - This bakery in Chelsea is known for its delicious homemade biscotti, bread, and pastries. Stop for a snack on your way to the next destination!
Discover the Rich History of Montreal
Montreal is a cultural hot spot, with museums, galleries, and historic landmarks. Here are some places to visit to get a taste of Montreal's rich history.
- Pointe-à-Callière Museum - This museum tells the story of Montreal's birthplace and its evolution over time. Housed in a historic building, it's a must-visit for anyone interested in archaeology and history.
- Old Montreal - This historic neighborhood is full of cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and boutiques. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the old architecture and beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River.
- Notre-Dame Basilica - This stunning Gothic Revival basilica is one of Montreal's most famous landmarks. Take a guided tour and admire its intricate stained-glass windows, sculptures, and paintings.
- Montreal Museum of Fine Arts - This museum has an impressive collection of over 44,000 works of art from around the world. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, there's something for everyone here.
- Mount Royal Park - This park offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for picnicking, hiking, and biking. It's also home to the iconic lookout and the famous Tam-Tams drumming session on Sundays in the summer.
Experience the Thrills of Candiac
Candiac may be a small town, but it's full of adventure! Here are some places to get your adrenaline pumping.
- SKYSPA - This spa offers panoramic views of Montreal and the surrounding area. Relax in the hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms, or book a massage or other spa treatment.
- Coronet Peak - Hit the slopes at this ski resort, which offers over 20 runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. If you're not up for skiing, there are also snowshoeing and tobogganing options.
- La Prairie Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve - This 4.3 km race track is open to the public for go-karting and other racing adventures. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice driver, this track offers fun for everyone.
- Quartier DIX30 - This outdoor shopping complex has over 300 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Whether you're looking for designer fashion or a new tech gadget, there's something for everyone here.
- Skyzone - This indoor trampoline park offers hours of fun for all ages. Jump and bounce to your heart's content, or try your hand at dodgeball or basketball on the trampolines.
Conclusion
This road trip from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Candiac, Quebec offers something for everyone: natural beauty, rich history, and thrilling adventures. So pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the best of Eastern Canada!