I’ve written a lot about my girls’ trips, and quite a few have been with my girl, Lindsay. Together, we’d explored Laval, Oka, Canandaigua, Lanaudière-Mauricie, and every time we go, I’m reminded how good these escapes are for the soul. There’s something about having that one friend who knows your secrets, goes on emotional hikes with you, and shows up for the laughs, the coffee, and the chaos. She’s my ride-or-die travel buddy, and every trip together feels like a reset. This time, we took on the Tap and Cork Route in the Pontiac Region of Quebec, and tacked on some extra fun along the way.

The Tap and Cork Route is all about sipping and tasting your way through the region. We visited a winery, a cidery, and a German-style brewery on the route, but the Pontiac Region has so much more to offer. We discovered a tucked-away apothecary that is filled with remedies and potions, and tackled a challenging hike that tested both our legs and emotions. We enjoyed incredible meals (yes, yak made the menu), and got our fresh air fix along rivers and on rafts. And, of course, there were endless laughs; our abs always hurt, not because we had done 300 crunches.

Girls’ trips like this aren’t just getaways, they’re spiritual fuel. They remind me how lucky I am to have a friend like Lindsay and how places like the Pontiac Region in Quebec give us precisely what we need: adventure, connection, and maybe a little too much coffee.

Where is the Pontiac Region in Quebec?

The Pontiac Region is tucked into the western edge of Quebec’s Outaouais Region, running along the north shore of the Ottawa River. Across the water, you’re in Ontario, which makes hopping between the two provinces part of the adventure. There are multiple crossing points, so it’s easy to plan a loop that takes you from one side of the river to the other. Bridges at places like Portage-du-Fort and Quyon connect you directly from Ontario into Pontiac, and the ferry at Quyon is another fun option if you want a little water crossing with your road trip.

From Ottawa/Gatineau, you’re basically next door. It’s less than an hour’s drive west and puts you right in Shawville or Campbell’s Bay, with cider, wine, and beer waiting.

From Montreal, the drive is about 3.5 hours. You’ll head west on Autoroute 40, then north into the Outaouais region, skirting along country roads until the Ottawa River comes into view.

And if you’re road-tripping in from Toronto, you’re looking at about 5.5 to 6 hours by car, depending on traffic. The fastest route takes you along the 401 to the 416 towards Ottawa, then across the river into Quebec. It’s actually perfect for a weekend getaway if you don’t mind a bit of a drive. The scenic route, which was the one we took, was Highway 7 to 41.

Tackling the Tap and Cork Route in Pontiac

One of my favourite ways to get to know a region is to taste it. The flavours tell the story to me. It’s the grapes that push through harsh Quebec winters, the apples pressed into crisp cider, the hops grown in local soil. And when you’re road-tripping with one of your best friends, those sips turn into memories.

That’s exactly what Lindsay and I found on the Tap & Cork Route in Pontiac. Every girls’ trip Lindsay and I take has its own flavour (sometimes literally). To me, maple whisky is a memory of the Lanaudière-Mauricie region. The cheese is what I taste in my memories when I think of Oka. The Tap & Cork Trail is a tasting route that takes you through breweries, wineries, cideries and even a few distilleries, with stops on both sides of the Ottawa River. We stayed in Quebec for our adventures this time. On the Quebec side, we hit three fantastic spots on this route:

Little Red Wagon Winery

This little vineyard is proof that great wine doesn’t need to come from a giant estate – it’s only 6 acres in size. Little Red Wagon Winery is a sweet blend of rural charm and creative spirit we all crave on a girls’ trip. Owned and run by Jen (and her husband), she’s an artist, dreamer, mom of four, and one of the rare women winemakers in Quebec.

The wines here are crafted from cold-hardy Nordic grape varietals that actually thrive in Pontiac’s winters. We sampled their reds, whites, and rosé. I’m not one to rose all day, but this wine, I sure could! So, let’s talk flavours…

P’tit Rouge: A smooth, lightly oaked red made from Frontenac Noir, Marquette, and Petit Perle, with notes of pepper and dark berries, and earthy, spicy accents. Ideal with lamb, pork, or a good cheese platter.
P’tit Blanc: A crisp, floral white from Frontenac and Louise Swenson grapes, think apple, peach, a hint of tropical fruit.

P’tit Rosé: Bright, refreshing, and full of apricot and strawberry aromas, pure summer in a glass. There is a 10/10 chance I am savouring a glass of this as I write these words.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the amazing lunch spread we indulged in here. Smoked trout, trout pate, whipped feta and a meat and cheese board. All of my favourites, all together!

Coronation Hall Cider Mills

Step inside Coronation Hall and you’ll feel like you’ve walked straight into the past! To one side, this 1930s dance hall, on the other, Quebec’s very first commercial cidery, Coronation Hall Cider Mills. Imagine sipping a crisp cider inside a 1930s dance hall or on the front steps?

And when paired with a slice of their famous apple pie, it’s magic. The owner, Greg, was there to greet us and showed us their production line, complete with his brother working away. We came in planning a quick stop, but with ciders this good, you can’t help but stay awhile and wander the old dance hall and learn about the fun history it houses! Once, it was the place for Friday night gatherings, all of the young people came, and many met their romantic matches in those walls.

This makes Coronation Hall Cider Mills one of those places where you don’t just taste cider, you taste the Pontiac region.

Brauwerk Hoffman

To balance that wine and cider on the Tap and Cork Route, we finished off the day at a German-style microbrewery in Campbell’s Bay, Brauwerk Hoffman. The beer here is brewed with German malts and local hops, so you get tradition with a Pontiac twist. We grabbed pints in the beer garden and toasted to the fact that yes, a girls’ trip can be both refreshing and delicious in more ways than one.

My flight consisted of the North German Blonde Pilsner, Helles Pale Lager, Honey Heist, a strong honey ale and Cherry Bomb Hefeweizen. I liked them all, but if I have to tell you which was my favourite, it was the Cherry Bomb.

Now, it being a German-style microbrewery, that means it also serves as a kitchen, and we had an amazing German-style pork schnitzel with a pretzel! My day was made!

The Tap & Cork Trail is more than just a pub crawl in beautiful Quebec towns. It’s a chance to meet the makers, taste the region, and laugh your way through a day with your friends. And if you’re like us, you’ll tack on some extras: an apothecary visit, a sweaty hike, and maybe even a yak burger. Because that’s what Pontiac is all about, mixing fresh air and flavour with a whole lot of fun. So, let’s jump into everything else we experienced while we were there!

 

Beyond the Tap and Cork Route: More Adventures in Pontiac

One of the best parts about taking on the Tap and Cork Route is how easily you can tack on extra adventures in the Pontiac. Between tastings, hikes, and river time, this region has a way of pulling you deeper in. Here’s everything else we did; these are definitely places you’ll want to add to your must-do and see list.

La Fée des Bois – Herbalism with Heart

We actually started our visit to the region at La Fée des Bois, a working herbalist farm where the gardens are alive with medicinal plants. On a guided tour, you can wander the rows, learn how the plants are grown and used, and discover traditional remedies in action. We met Mariannae, the Woodland Fairy Herbalist, here. The boutique here is rustic and filled with herbal teas, healing ointments, and eco-friendly products, all made right on site.

I admit to supporting the local economy here and purchasing some products. I’m really excited to see if they work.

Did you know such a site exists? I did not, but it absolutely makes sense that flowers and herbs hold key healing powers for many ailments, since I have learned from my Indigenous exposure that the Creator made everything we need for us. It’s the perfect way to ground yourself before diving into everything else the Pontiac has to offer.

Pure Conscience Yak Farm

This was one of the most unique surprises of the trip: a yak farm. Pure Yes, yaks in Pontiac! This family-run farm was a quirky, unexpected stop that ended up being a highlight. We drove right out into the field to meet two of the shaggy, gentle yaks. Beyond the novelty, the farm produces unique yak meat products, which is a taste of the region you won’t find anywhere else.

We bought sausages, burgers and a steak, which we cooked up on our last night to enjoy.

This isn’t just a place to buy Yak meat. Pure Conscience is the only one of its kind in the Outaouais and runs on the principles of agroecology, sustainability, and respect for all living things. Beyond the novelty of seeing a yak, they sell products of the region and, of course, yak meat. Spoiler: it’s lean, delicious, and surprisingly healthy.

Oiseau Rock Trail

If you’re up for a challenge, the Oiseau Rock Trail delivers. Do it on a day like we did, in extreme heat, and you get pushed a bit to your limit. The Oiseau Rock Hiking Trail is located inside the ZEC St-Patrice. This 9 km round-trip hike winds through the forest, offering lookouts that provide a stunning view of the Ottawa River from above.

Bring snacks, water, mosquito repellent and sturdy hiking boots, as there are a few tough and steep sections along the way. At the lookout points, you can pause and take in the amazing view. There are two places to stop on Oiseau Rock, and you can cool off with a swim in the lake. The lake was a popular destination for some families who could hike over directly from a boat dock. You’ll also find a rope swing if you’re feeling courageous. The swim is the reward for every drop of sweat.

This trail is tough but unforgettable, for the history of the Ottawa River and the views.

Hotel Pontiac – burgers, poutine and live music

Hotel Pontiac isn’t just a stop — it’s an event. Right on the Ottawa River beach, this is the spot boaters, jet skiers, kayakers, and paddle boarders flock to for good food, cold drinks, and live music. Just pull up on the beach!

The menu is stacked with comfort classics: juicy burgers (Big Deck Burger, anyone?), poutine, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and bowls that hit the spot after a day outdoors. Quick-service style, with one area for bar orders and another for food.

The vibe is laid-back and fun, with what I bet are sunsets on the Ottawa River that set the stage for live music on the deck. Whether you roll in sandy-footed from the beach or dressed for a night out, Hotel Pontiac makes you feel like you’re exactly where you belong. Say hi to the owner, Trevor!

Chutes Coulonge – waterfalls worth the detour

We were going to skip this stop because Mansfield-et-Pontefract was a detour for us, but the weather was nice, so we took a chance. Few things stop you in your tracks like the waterfalls at Chutes Coulonge. The site is steeped in history, but it’s the sheer beauty of the rushing water that steals the show. It’s a postcard-worthy stop that will make you slow down and take it all in.

However, if you’re an adventure seeker, you can participate in ziplining and via ferrata in Coulonge Falls Park.

Aventure Hélianthe – Lazy River Rafting

To cap off all our fun activities, we floated (albeit with low water levels requiring more paddling than not) down the Ottawa River with Aventure Hélianthe. Think rafts, river, snacks, laughter, and that equals the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

We were dropped off at a river access point on the Riviere Coulonge, and we navigated our way back to Plage du Pont Blanc over a span of a few hours. A lot of sunscreen was applied, and cool water splashed. We brought a cooler and couldn’t have asked for a better day! Reminded me so much of a river run on the Saugeen River in Bruce County. Girls’ trip: next-level fun unlocked!

Their site, where the River Adventure was our endpoint, Plage du Pont Blanc (the White Bridge Beach), is a community gathering place with a public beach, recreational rentals, and ample space to enjoy the river. Aventure Hélianthe provided us with the raft, paddles and life jackets. If you have a kayak, a canoe or a paddleboard, you can do the same!

Where to Stay Along the Tap and Cork Trail

We spent three nights in the Pontiac Region of Quebec while exploring the Tap and Cork Route, and one of the things that made the trip so special was the variety of places we stayed. Each one offered a completely different way to experience the region — from minimalist luxury in the forest, to a social riverside base camp, to a quiet eco-retreat along the Coulonge River. Here’s where we stayed…

Prunella – A-Frame Cabins

Prunella was the spot that felt like pure magic. Lindsay and I each had our own A-frame cabin tucked deep in the woods, complete with a private outdoor hot tub on a deck where you could stargaze. Each cabin had a washroom, a queen-size bed and an upstairs loft. They’re designed for year-round comfort, with spa-like touches, yet they still feel rooted in nature. Prunella has seven cabins to choose from.

We cooked dinner together in mine, shared some hot tub laughs under the stars, then she slipped back to her cabin, leaving me to stargaze in solitude. It’s the best of both worlds: togetherness when you want it, and complete peace when you don’t.

Minimalist and modern, Prunella’s cabins are set on 75 acres of forest with trails to explore and Johnson Lake for paddling or floating. While it’s shared with cottagers who also reside there, it’s big enough for all to enjoy. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available for guest use.

If you’re looking for a top-tier escape, deep in the woods, but filled with luxury, Prunella is your spot. It’s romantic, restorative, or just a way to reconnect with a friend. I would absolutely return with friends, with a partner or solo; it would all work for me. Maybe I’ll go back next summer and finally get to work on my Substack!

But honestly, this was a place I could not stop taking photos at.

Deluxe Pavilion at Rafting Momentum

Night two, we switched gears completely and checked into the Deluxe Pavilion Apartment at Rafting Momentum in Bryson. This place couldn’t be more different from Prunella. While yes, it was technically in the woods, Rafting Momentum is social, lively, and full of energy.

The pavilion apartment we stayed in is a big, two-level apartment with balconies, multiple bedrooms, and a cozy living space, perfect for groups. I believe it sleeps 12, so a couple of families could easily fit in here. The apartment features a fully equipped kitchen with a coffee machine, refrigerator, microwave, oven, and toaster, so we had everything we needed.

There is also a washing machine, garden views, and a dining table. Also, it’s a new build. And, the stair workout is great for the glutes. But do take note, there is no air conditioning, so if you are staying in the summer, bring a fan.

What I loved about Rafting Momentum? There is a large social area that reminded me of some of my backpacker days, hammocks, people laughing around a fire, board games and marshmallows — but upgraded with a comfortable bed, a kitchen, and those sweeping balcony views.

By day, you’re right at the heart of all the rafting action; by night, you can join in the fun or retreat to the pavilion and head upstairs to your private balcony. It’s a brilliant option for anyone travelling with friends, planning a celebration, or just craving that blend of adventure and comfort.

Aventure Coulonge Shipping Container Cabins

For our last night, we slowed things down again at Aventure Coulonge, a privately owned nature reserve in Mansfield-et-Pontefract. Here, the cabins are cleverly built out of shipping containers, scattered through the forest for privacy and views of the river. Lindsay and I each had our own little space, simple but perfect after a full day of exploring. The one-bedroom cabins featured a living room, a 3-piece washroom, a kitchen, and a bedroom. A screened-in porch with a table for dining was perfect for us to cook and gather at.

The property itself is enormous, spanning 540 hectares of wilderness that borders 1.5 km of the Coulonge River. No lie, we had to off-road in my Jeep for more than 10 minutes to get to the accommodations.

You can SUP, swim, or just sit with a coffee and watch the water drift by. It’s also the kind of place where you want to linger over a barbecue dinner, let the night sounds take over, and really settle into the quiet.

Aventure Coulonge felt like the exhale at the end of our trip — still adventurous, but deeply peaceful. There’s a really good chance I would return here with my kids.

Lindsay and I both share a deep appreciation of nature and a huge sense of outdoor adventure, so these were all perfect places for us to rest our pretty little heads and enjoy our morning coffees. Whether you want luxe cabins in the forest, a social rafting hub, or a quiet eco-retreat on the river, the Pontiac Region has accommodations that perfectly complement the Tap and Cork Route experience. Verified! We tried them out for you! You can check out places to stay in the area here if you’re inspired to travel:

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After three nights in the Pontiac Region, I can honestly say this region of Outaouais is the whole package. One day you’re sipping crisp cider in a restored dance hall, the next you’re sampling wines by the river, and then suddenly you’re standing in a field with a couple of curious yaks. Between adventures, you’ll find cozy inns, heritage hotels, and cabins that let you wake up with nature just outside your door.
What makes the Pontiac so special is how seamlessly it blends food, drink, nature, and community. You can hike to sweeping lookouts in the morning, cool off in the Ottawa River by afternoon, and end your day swapping stories over a glass of something local after picking something up along the Tap and Cork Trail.

For a girls’ getaway, it hits all the right beats. There’s adventure to fuel your soul, food and drink to keep you lingering at the table, and plenty of space for laughter and connection. The Pontiac Region is proof that you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve truly escaped, and once you’ve tasted and explored your way through, you’ll be planning your return before you even leave.

Outaouais Tourism paid Lindsay and me to document our regional experience. I would like to wholeheartedly thank Annie and the Destination Pontiac partners for such an incredible experience. Reuniting Team Jean Jacket for a girls’ getaway on the Tap and Cork Route was the perfect way to showcase the area