Montebello - A Picturesque Walk
Papineau Manor National Historic Site
Amenities
A journey through history in the heart of Montebello
The Manoir-Papineau National Historic Site opens its doors for the summer season on May 16, 2026, and invites visitors to immerse themselves in the daily life of a prominent 19th-century figure, Louis-Joseph Papineau. Flanked by its four towers, the manor overlooks a vast estate featuring gardens, green spaces, and a wooded area crossed by a stream. In front of the manor’s north facade stands the majestic red oak around which the Papineau family loved to gather.
This year, a brand-new outdoor exhibition will open at Cap Bonsecours. This interpretive area will explore the contemplative relationship with the Ottawa Riverandthe calming presence of this landscape, offering a place for observation and reflection.
The estate also houses a permanent exhibition in the grain barn, a building constructed in 1855 to store seigneurial dues. Upstairs, the painter Napoléon Bourassa had set up his studio. Visitors can learn how the seigneury operated and create their own artwork. It’s a must-see stop that’s sure to captivate children, as is the Xplorateurs workbook, which contains educational activities tailored for children ages 6 to 11 (available for free at the reception desk)!
Guided tours, offered daily in French and English, offer a glimpse into the private life of the Papineau family, allowing visitors to explore the manor’s grand floor and view authentic period furniture.
The Strong Canada Pass is back! Enjoy free admission to all Parks Canada sites from June 19 to September 7, 2026.
Don't miss:
Friday, September 4, through Sunday, September 6, 2026: Nighttime guided tour Whispers in the Night
Explore the manor by lantern light—a unique and mystical experience.