Vacation rentals in Gatineau

Quebec’s fourth-largest city, Gatineau, lies on the province’s southern border, overlooking the roaring Ottawa River. Across the water lies the city of Ottawa — the other half of the region of “Ottawa-Gatineau.” And it makes sense to join the two: Both cities boast expansive parks, renowned museums, and a wealth of creative restaurants.

While it may have a French name, Gatineau is one of Canada’s most bilingual cities — more than 60 percent of its citizens are fluent in both English and French. But it’s Gatineau’s French side that comes through in its restaurant scene. Foie gras and tartare make frequent appearances on menus. A city of arts and culture, Gatineau offers regular exhibits at Galerie Montcalm and theatre productions at the Théâtre de l’Île. The second most-visited museum in Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, makes its home in Gatineau as well.

Gatineau is at its best in April and May, when its parks are in bloom and the weather is pleasant — not cold, but still a comfortable distance from true summer heat. In neighbouring Ottawa, May is the month for the annual tulip festival. Summer begins in June, set off by Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day festivities, and delivers warm days all the way into September. These sun-soaked months are the best time to enjoy Gatineau Park’s beaches, swim at Leamy Lake, or cast a line into La Pêche Lake. Labour Day weekend kicks off the Hot Air Balloon Festival, filling the skies above Gatineau with brightly coloured montgolfières. And while winter snow tends to quiet the city, there’s movement in the Gatineau Hills — a favourite spot for cross-country skiing.

Gatineau Park

At 361 square kilometres, Gatineau Park could be a city of its own. It has lakes and beaches, nearly 200 kilometres of hiking trails, and cross-country ski paths to explore in the winter. The Mackenzie King Estate offers a tearoom and tours of its historic grounds.

Wakefield Village

Just 25 minutes northwest of Gatineau lies Wakefield, a small village on the Gatineau River founded by Scottish and Irish settlers in the early 1800s. Today, cafes, galleries, and the sounds of the river make the village a pleasant place to stroll, and the brightly painted covered bridge is a brilliant spot for a photo or two.

Encan Larose Flea Market

Founded over 60 years ago, the biggest flea market in the Ottawa-Gatineau region is open Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays in Gatineau year round. Merchandise runs the gamut, with vendors selling amazing farm-fresh produce, clothes, honey, antiques, furniture, and handmade jewelry. Hot food is often available as well.