Wakefield Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Wakefield with our comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, hiking trails, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Wakefield

Wakefield is a quaint village located in the Outaouais region of Quebec. Surrounded by lush green forests and the Gatineau River meandering through it, Wakefield is a perfect destination for a relaxing, small-town getaway. The village is home to many historic buildings, artisanal shops, and several natural attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists around the globe.

List of Places to Visit in Wakefield

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alpengruss Golf Course and Ski Resort: Wakefield is known for its Alpengruss Golf Course and Ski Resort which offers year-round activities including skiing, snowboarding, golf, and hiking.

  • Musee de la Gatineau: The museum showcases Gatineau’s cultural and archaeological heritage, enabling visitors to explore the rich history and development of Quebec.

  • Wakefield Covered Bridge: This 100-year-old wooden bridge is the focal point of the village, spanning across the Gatineau River.

Natural Attractions of Wakefield: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gatineau Park: Gatineau Park offers various outdoor activities including hiking, camping, canoeing, nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and much more.

  • Parc des Chutes de la Rouge: The Rouge River flows through the enchanting Parc des Chutes de la Rouge, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing day of picnicking, hiking, and swimming.

  • Vorlage Ski Resort: Vorlage Ski Resort is a family-friendly ski resort that offers winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wakefield

  • Wakefield Covered Bridge to the Gatineau Park: This hike offers stunning views of Gatineau Park as you cross the scenic covered bridge over the Gatineau River.

  • The Wolf Trail: This 8.1 km trail is a popular hiking trail in the Gatineau Park and offers great views of the surrounding flora and fauna.

  • Le P’Tit Train du Nord: This bike trail stretches over 200 km and passes through several towns and villages such as Wakefield, offering a beautiful insight into the Canadian countryside.

Best Things to Do in Wakefield: Activities and Tours

  • Eco-Odyssee: This unique outdoor experience provides visitors with the scenic beauty of the Gatineau River, combining pedal boats, puzzles and clues to test your logic and observational skills.

  • Wakefield Mill Spa: Located near Wakefield Mill, this spa offers a unique experience for rejuvenation and relaxation with its mineral pools, massages, and other spa services.

  • Edelweiss Ski Resort: A family-friendly ski resort known for its picturesque views and ski slopes perfect for beginners to intermediates.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wakefield

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Wakefield and explore the village
2 Visit Musee de la Gatineau and Gatineau Park
3 Go on a hiking trip at the Wolf Trail
4 Pamper yourself with spa treatments at Wakefield Mill Spa
5 Explore the Parc des Chutes de la Rouge
6 Experience winter sports at Vorlage Ski Resort
7 Visit Alpengruss Golf Course and Ski Resort

Food and Drink Scene of Wakefield

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: Available in most restaurants, Wakefield’s version of poutine is made with hand-cut fries, cheese curds, and delicious gravy.

  • Beavertails: A Canadian delicacy, these deep-fried pastries are shaped like a beaver’s tail and can be topped with sweet or savory toppings.

  • Maple Syrup: Quebec is famous for its maple syrup, and Wakefield is no exception. Be sure to try a maple syrup-infused dish while you’re here.

Local Beverages

  • Chez Eric’s Pub: The pub serves various local craft beers, ciders, and wines.

  • Wakefield Market: The Wakefield Market is home to several local vendors, including Beans in the Kitchen and their artisan coffee beans.

  • Kaffé 1870: Known for its coffee and espresso, Kaffé 1870 also serves a wide range of imported beer and wine.

Where to Stay in Wakefield: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa: A luxurious hotel located in a historical 1838 grain mill on the banks of the Gatineau River, this hotel offers a unique combination of coziness, modernity, and relaxation.

  • Moulin Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa: A four-star riverside hotel with a unique blend of the historic and the modern. The spa also provides hydrotherapy, massages, and other relaxing treatments.

  • Auberge de Mon Petit Chum: A cozy bed and breakfast known for its warm welcome and delicious breakfasts. The property has a garden, terrace, and shared lounge space.

What to Buy in Wakefield: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artisanal Crafts: Wakefield is home to various artisans; you can find some unique and locally made crafts and souvenirs at the Wakefield Market (open on Saturdays) and at the Artisans Gifts and Fine Arts Gallery.

  • Honey and Maple Syrup: Wakefield is known for its honey and maple syrup. You can find pure honey and maple syrup at La Cigale, an organic farm that also offers tours and tastings.

  • Locally Made Skincare Products: Le Petit Pot creates natural skincare products that are made with locally sourced ingredients. You can find their products at their store on Chemin Walsh Avenue.

Local Culture and Customs of Wakefield

Wakefield is a small, friendly village that values nature, community, and culture. It is not unusual for locals to greet you with a smile and a wave, so feel free to do the same. Wakefield’s history and culture are reflected in its museums, festivals, and artisanal shops.

Best Time to Visit Wakefield

The best time to visit Wakefield depends on your interests and activities as the climate changes throughout the year. Summers are warm and sunny, making it the perfect season to enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and events. Fall in Wakefield offers picturesque foliage, while winter is perfect for winter sports lovers, with the region’s ski resorts and outdoor activities. Spring is ideal for those who want to avoid the holiday crowds and have a more relaxed vacation experience.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wakefield

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors and natural attractions like Gatineau Park and Parc des Chutes de la Rouge.
  • Taste Wakefield’s local cuisine and beverages.
  • Embrace local culture by visiting museums and artisanal shops.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural attractions.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Miss out on the opportunity to meet and greet the friendly locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wakefield

Wakefield is a safe, friendly village. As with any other small town, it’s always best to take necessary precautions such as locking your car and securing valuable belongings.

Health in Wakefield

Wakefield has a medical center that offers primary care services. In case of an emergency, you can visit the Gatineau Hospital in Hull, which is approximately a 25-minute drive from Wakefield.

Getting to Wakefield: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wakefield

The nearest airport to Wakefield is Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier airport which is approximately 50 km away.

Bus Stations Near Wakefield

The Gatineau Hills shuttle provides direct daily service between Ottawa and Wakefield. You can also take the STO, Quebec’s public bus transportation, from Ottawa to Wakefield.

Other Options

The best way to experience the charm of Wakefield is by car. Car rentals are available at the airport.

How to Get Around in Wakefield

Wakefield is a small village, and most of the attractions can be explored on foot or by bike. If you prefer a more relaxed ride, there are several taxi services available in the village.

Where to Go Next from Wakefield: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Wakefield is located in the Gatineau Region of Quebec, and there are several other destinations worth exploring in the nearby regions, such as:

  • Ottawa: The capital city of Canada, Ottawa is only a short drive away and offers many attractions, including the Canadian Museum of History, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Rideau Canal.

  • Montebello: A charming small town located along the Ottawa River, it is home to the Fairmont Le Château Montebello and Omega Park, making it a popular destination for tourists.

  • Saint-Sauveur: A picturesque village, it is home to several ski resorts and outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination during the winter seasons.

Conclusion

Wakefield is a charming village located in the heart of the Canadian countryside. With its stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and rich culture, it is the perfect destination for a relaxing and memorable vacation. We hope that our guide helped you plan your trip to Wakefield, and that you have a wonderful time exploring this enchanting village.

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