Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Brockville, Ontario and Gatineau, Quebec

Driving from Brockville, Ontario, to Gatineau, Quebec, takes around two hours and 30 minutes. The route is a beautiful journey through the heart of the Canadian countryside, stopping in little towns along the way. It is an enjoyable trip on any day, but it can be even better when you know where to stop. Here are five unexpected places to stop.

1. The Greenhouse Ice Cream Shop

The Greenhouse Ice Cream Shop, located in Kemptville, Ontario, is the halfway point between Brockville and Gatineau. The shop sells homemade ice cream in an array of unique flavors, made from natural ingredients for an unforgettable treat. The Greenhouse is also a lush garden center and gift shop. They offer an excellent variety of plants, herbs, seeds and a variety of unique gifts, making it the perfect place to wander, find a souvenir, or discover a new plant.

Don't miss out on the signature flavors: strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry ice cream made from local fruit. They're insanely delicious, and you'll never forget your first taste.

2. Au Contraire Film Festival

The Au Contraire Film Festival is a film festival hosted in Gatineau, Quebec, and is an event worth attending. The festival's mission is to challenge mental health stigma through the powerful medium of film, with free screenings organized throughout the city. Attendees are welcome to participate in a Q&A session following each movie. The festival livens up the whole town, with a great sense of community while providing an opportunity for people to learn about mental health and important topics through films.

3. Highway 31 Diner

The Highway 31 Diner, located in Winchester, Ontario, is a classic diner from the '50s era. The diner isn't like your typical sprawling and noisy modern restaurant. Instead, it is an intimate and cozy spot where you can indulge in classic dishes reflecting the golden age of diners and sweet desserts.

Don't miss out on a classic meal of burgers and fries, or try out their homemade pies, and enjoy a slice of aromatic apple or blueberry pie at the end of your meal.

4. Alpaca Tracks

Alpaca Tracks, located in North Gower, Ontario, is a unique alpaca farm that welcomes visitors who can learn about these fascinating animals and shop for products made from their fleece. Alpaca fleece is softer and more durable than regular wool, and they come in a variety of natural colors.

Visitors can explore the farm, meet the charming animals up close, feed them, and learn about how the alpacas are sheared and spun. Shop for alpaca wool products such as gloves, scarves, hats, and socks and support the local artisans while you're at it!

5. Nature Walk in Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park, located only a few miles away from Ontarian border, covers about 36,000 hectares and is a vast recreation area. The park offers an excellent opportunity for nature lovers who want to connect with the great outdoors. The park is an ideal destination for people of all ages, where visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the summer and skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating in the winter.

Not to be missed is the breathtaking fall foliage display in October! The leaves turn bright reds, oranges, and yellows - a sight worth the road trip in itself.

Conclusion

There are plenty of hidden gems and unexpected delights on a road trip from Brockville, Ontario, to Gatineau, Quebec. Check out everything from classic diners to ice cream shops in greenhouses, film festivals that will broaden your horizons, and crafts markets. Each stop on this road trip will offer an unforgettable experience. Don't hesitate to take the trip and create your journey of discovery!