Looking for the perfect day trip that blends scenic hikes, Indigenous culture, craft brews, and riverside charm? Welcome to Pontiac, where the roads are quiet, the views are wild, and every stop has a story. Whether you’re coming from Ottawa, Gatineau, or deeper into the Valley, this itinerary makes for a full, flavorful, and fun day in the Pontiac backcountry.
8:00 AM — Morning Fuel at Karl’s Bakery (Chapeau)
Start your adventure bright and early at Karl’s Bakery, a cozy German-style bakery nestled right in the heart of the village. Known for hearty loaves, soft pretzels, and cinnamon buns that practically melt in your mouth, it’s the perfect pit stop before a hike.
TIP: Order something sweet, something savory, and maybe a little extra to pack for the trail ahead.
Photo Moment: Steamy coffee and pastry picnic at the Municipal lookout just up the road across from St-Alphonsus church.
9:00 AM — Hike Oiseau Rock Trail (Sheenboro)
Drive west and lace up your boots for Oiseau Rock, one of the region’s most scenic hikes. Embark on this 10 km round-trip hike that climbs through forested trails to a cliff-top lookout with breathtaking views of the Ottawa River. But this isn’t just about the view — Oiseau Rock is an Algonquin sacred site, featuring ancient red ochre pictographs that tell the stories of the land and its people. Please visit respectfully and leave no trace.
TIP: Plan for 2.5–3 hours to enjoy the hike at a relaxed pace.
Photo Moment: That breathtaking panoramic shot at the summit, or a thoughtful moment near the pictographs.
1:00 PM — Cultural Stop at L’Artisan Boutique (Waltham)
After the hike, drop into L’Artisan, an Indigenous-owned boutique that celebrates traditional craftsmanship and culture. Inside, you’ll find handcrafted beadwork, dreamcatchers, jewelry, leather goods, and artwork — each piece carrying a story and connection to the Algonquin people.
TIP: Perfect place to pick up a one-of-a-kind gift or personal keepsake.
Photo Moment: Browsing colorful beadwork or chatting with the artisan behind the counter.
1:30 PM — La Station Restaurant (Waltham)
By now, you’ve earned a hearty lunch — and La Station Restaurant in Waltham is just the spot. This local favorite serves up comforting homestyle meals with small-town charm. Think burgers, club sandwiches, poutine, and maybe a slice of pie if you’ve still got room.
TIP: It’s laid-back, affordable, and always hits the spot after a hike.
Photo Moment: Classic diner-style plate, or delicious take-out by at the pic-nic benches facing the lake in the heart of town overlooking the beautiful mountains.
2:30 PM — Tour Houblonnière Lupuline (L’Isle-aux-Allumettes)
Time to follow the hops. Head to Houblonnière Lupuline, a local hop farm just in the centre of the island. This farm is big on passion for growing great hops — book a tour through the hop vines, learn about the growing process, and see how the flavors of beer start in the soil.
TIP: This is a quick but super interesting stop, especially for beer lovers or green thumbs.
Photo Moment: Among rows of hops or sipping a taster with the fields in the background.
4:00 PM — Sip a Pint at L’Ancienne Banque Brewery (L’Isle-aux-Allumettes)
Next stop: a cold beer in a cool place. L’Ancienne Banque is a microbrewery built inside an old bank, complete with original vault. Grab a flight or go straight for the SS Pontiac, a flagship local brew named after the iconic steamship. Expect crisp, clean flavors with plenty of small-town pride on tap.
TIP: Don’t forget to snap a shot in front of the vault — it’s kind of a thing.
Photo Moment: Beer flight on a wooden board, or pint raised next to the brewery sign.
6:30 PM — Live Music & Sunset at Hotel Pontiac (Fort William)
Cap off the day with a drive to Hotel Pontiac in Fort William, a storied waterfront inn that was once a fur trading post. Today, it’s the spot for sandy beach vibes, cold drinks, and weekend live music on outdoor stage. Kick off your shoes, dance in the sand, or just chill with a burger and beer as the sun dips over the river.
TIP: They’ve got rooms if you want to stay the night — or just soak up the atmosphere before heading home.
Photo Moment: Live music under string lights, fire pit on the beach, or golden-hour toast by the water.
9:00 PM — Drive Home or Stay Overnight
Whether you’re headed home with a camera full of memories, or staying overnight to soak up the stars, this day through the Pontiac West will leave you feeling inspired, full, and maybe just a little sun-kissed.
Bonus Tip: Map Your Route
Want this whole itinerary mapped out for easy GPS use? Click here for the route and printable version for the glovebox.And don’t forget to share your road trip moments with #HikesAndHopsPontiac — we’d love to follow along!
