Petite Nation: a remarkable destination for a family day trip
Tashi Farmilo
Petite Nation presents an exceptional option for families seeking a day trip that combines historical significance, natural beauty, and gastronomic delights. Located in the picturesque town of Buckingham, this region stands as a formidable rival to the scenic charm of Old Aylmer, warranting a visit of considerable merit.
Notably, Café des Artistes in Buckingham serves as an essential establishment, providing a serene setting to rest and immerse oneself in the local ambiance. Dedicate approximately one hour to wander amidst the early settler architecture, embracing the architectural heritage on display.
Buckingham's historical roots trace back to the era of the paper barons. An outstanding testament to this history is the West Quebec Post, one of North America's oldest newspapers, founded in 1896 and continuing its printed presence to this day.
For those with a penchant for opulence, the prestigious Fairmont le Château Montebello emerges as a natural choice, although the Tourism Petite Nation website proffers an array of options to cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Moreover, this comprehensive website (www.petitenationoutaouais.com) suggests an assortment of activities including hiking, cultural pursuits, farm visits, and antiquing, ensuring that every visitor discovers an avenue of interest.
To optimize the experience of Petite Nation, it is recommended to allocate an entire day, particularly when en route to Montreal. The journey along the Ottawa River, which meanders along an old highway, presents captivating vistas and intersperses the route with farm stands and antique shops, thereby elongating time itself.
Cheneville stands as an exceptional destination, offering a wealth of attractions and experiences that are truly valuable and deserving of exploration. Among its highlights is the renowned Parc Oméga in Montebello. This captivating destination has captured the attention of visitors, including those from Aylmer, as it provides a remarkable opportunity to interact with majestic elk, feed them carrots, and observe a diverse range of wildlife, including wolves, Arctic foxes, and buffalo.
Chocomotive is a must-visit stop in Montebello. This unique economuseum, housed in the vintage railroad station, offers delightful chocolate treats made before your eyes, as well as a variety of local specialties. For beer enthusiasts, Brasseurs de Montebello provides an extensive selection of beers from their local microbrewery.
A trip to Petite Nation is incomplete without a visit to the renowned Fromagerie Montebello, celebrated for its award-winning cheeses. On Sundays, explore the picturesque Manoir-Papineau National Historic Site, once the home of influential political figure Louis-Joseph Papineau, with invaluable insights from Parks Canada's bilingual guides. Lastly, don't miss the captivating exhibitions at the Centre d’action culturelle de la MRC de Papineau. La Fouinerie, a boutique showcasing original works by local artists, is also worth a visit. Exploring Notre-Dame Street in Montebello will leave one with hands full and hearts contented, as the unique treasures encountered during the journey evoke a sense of fulfillment and gratitude.
Photo Caption: Majestic deer contemplates the serenity of Parc Oméga's forest in Montebello.
Photo Credit: Tashi Farmilo
