The Cost of a Trip Between Brockville, Ontario and Gatineau, Quebec
If you're planning a trip from Brockville, Ontario to Gatineau, Quebec, then it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of every route. These routes have a different distance and cost depending on the mode of transportation you'll be using. You might opt for a thrilling adventure by driving the scenic highways in your car or catching a bus that sets a fixed schedule. In this article, we'll discuss the cost of a trip between Brockville, Ontario, and Gatineau, Quebec.
Route Options
By Car
One of the most used and popular ways of getting to Gatineau from Brockville is driving. This option is practical because it provides flexibility. You get to have a beautiful drive and can make stops anywhere you like. It's also favorable for families with kids because you don't need to worry about keeping up with a bus schedule. You can choose to take any of the highways that lead to Gatineau, including the 416, 401, and the 417.
Via Highway 416
The most direct route from Brockville to Gatineau is using Ontario's Highway 416. This road takes you directly from Brockville to Ottawa, and you have to pass through the town of Kemptville. The distance is approximately 115 km, and the trip may take around 1 hour and 10 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The 416 highway isn't a toll road, which is an advantage for travelers looking to minimize their trip's costs.
If you're driving a car with an average fuel economy of 14 kilometers per liter and the current fuel price of CAD 1.20 per liter, then you would have to pay around CAD 10.29 for gas to drive 115 km.
Via Highway 401 and Highway 417
Another option is taking the longer route from Brockville using the Highway 401 and Highway 417 to Gatineau. This route is approximately 140 km long, and it might take you almost two hours to reach Gatineau. This route would take you through Kingston, Wolfe Island, and the City of Ottawa. This route is particularly beautiful, especially if you are a tourist as you can make stops along the way in many significant tourist attractions.
The cost of driving from Brockville to Gatineau using the 401 and 417 highways can get relatively expensive depending on traffic conditions and tolls on these highways. Therefore if you are planning to drive using these highways, ensure to have extra cash to cover the cost of gas and toll fees. You can pay CAD 10.50 for tolls, and gas will cost you approximately CAD 17.
Via Bus
If you'd instead not drive, you can choose to go by bus using Greyhound, which offers daily service from Brockville Bus Terminal to Ottawa Bus Terminal. The ticket cost ranges from CAD 20- CAD 40, depending on availability and how early you book. The trip takes approximately three hours, and you will make a stop in Ottawa.
Greyhound is an excellent option for travelers who don't have a car, people who prefer not to drive, and also those traveling in large groups. It's great for people who want to relax during the trip and not worry about navigating and parking.
Via Train
Another option is travelling from Brockville to Gatineau by Train. This option is not as popular as the others mentioned above, but it's still worth considering. Users can travel cheaply by using VIA Rail. The train departs from Brockville North station and arrives in Ottawa, from where you can take a bus to Gatineau. The trip can take anywhere between 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the train schedule and station delays. The train offers various seating options, with a range of prices, all featuring free WiFi and electrical outlets.
It's essential to know that the train doesn't offer a direct service from Brockville to Gatineau, meaning that you will have to take a bus from Ottawa to Gatineau. The total cost of the train and bus will cost you about CAD 70, which is more expensive than taking the bus.
The Best Route to Take
Based on our analysis, Greyhound buses provide the most affordable way to travel from Brockville to Gatineau. Taking the bus not only saves you money on gas and toll fees, but it's also environmentally friendly. Also, traffic on highways 416 and 417 and toll fees are likely to cause additional costs that you may not have budgeted for.
Conclusion
Choosing the right route to travel from Brockville to Gatineau can save you money and time, and offer you beautiful scenery along the way. If you're looking for an affordable and easy way to travel, consider taking a Greyhound bus. However, if you're craving for a leisurely drive and more scenic views, consider taking the route through the 401 and 417 highways. Whatever your preference is, make sure you budget accordingly and enjoy your journey!