History in the making | Tourisme Petite Nation

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2024 commemorates the ^350th anniversary of the granting of the seigneury of Petite-Nation.

The MRC de Papineau is taking advantage of this important anniversary to explore with you, in words and images, the history and identity of its territory.

Dive into the region's rich past this summer! Marie Josée Bourgeois and Marthe Lemery bring you 24 fascinating historical vignettes. From the first French tourist, to the Weskarinis, to our talented "gosseux", each story reveals a unique part of our heritage. Take advantage of the warm weather to rediscover the historical treasures that have shaped our region.

Research and writing: Marie Josée Bourgeois and Marthe Lemery

Our lordship, in his early days!

Our Seigneurie, in the Papineau era

The Papineau and Bourassa families Sons of soldiers, farmers and politicians

Weskarinis, a local people!

In all our cantons, there are... settlers!

Our "august night-lights" of ranks...

Elm, Papineau's favorite tree

Let us now praise our great women!

Portage trails, those first dirt roads

100 years ago Victor Nymark arrived in Quebec

Farm girl and career woman

Arthème, Nelphas, Léon and Hyacinthe, our divine kids!

350 years ago, the first French tourist arrived!

I've seen the Red, the White and the Hare

I have the colors of a river (part 2)

(Funny) things and more...

One of the oldest trades in the New World

Crossing two worlds between Montreal and Duhamel

Authors who tell the world

Papa Bear and the Little Story

Our glorious ones

In the footsteps of Talbot Papineau, hero of Passchendaele

Our articles

February 12, 2025 | Blog

For a winter break in Petite Nation

en Petite Nation We invite you to a unique family winter! Discover warm accommodations and outdoor activities that combine nature and local traditions to create a unique [...].

February 3, 2025 | Press release, Event

Ripon Trad: traditional music festival wins Prix Opus 2025!

Ripon Trad: traditional music festival wins Prix Opus 2025!

January 29, 2025 | Blog

Romantic packages and gourmet menus for Valentine's Day

in Petite Nation Special offers to celebrate love Whether it's a candlelight dinner, a romantic getaway or a well-being experience, businesses in Petite Nation have the [...]

January 26, 2025 | Attraction, Blog

Cafés, pastries and treats to discover

A well-deserved gourmet break after a day of activities Winter in the Petite Nation is much more than just a cold season. It's a time when gourmet pleasures warm our hearts [...].

January 23, 2025 | Attraction, Blog

Escapade well-being: an invitation to recharge your batteries

Explore the harmony of relaxation and nature this winter Located less than two hours from Montreal and Gatineau/Ottawa, Petite Nation offers the ideal setting for a winter getaway [...].

January 22, 2025 | Blog, Event

Carnivals and events in our villages

en Petite Nation Discover the magic of winter Take part in our carnivals and events where the friendly atmosphere and outdoor games bring young and old together. Enjoy a variety of events celebrating [...]

January 21, 2025 | Attraction, Blog

Trails for skiing, snowshoeing and even biking

Discover the best destinations to enjoy winter in Petite Nation Winter in Petite Nation is a true invitation to outdoor adventure. With its snow-covered landscapes and warm, sunny [...]

January 17, 2025 | Attraction, Blog

Explore the region by snowmobile or quad this winter!

En Petite Nation An accessible winter paradise between Montreal and Gatineau-Ottawa Winter in Petite Nation isn't just a season, it's a true experience! Strategically located between Montreal and Ottawa, the [...]

January 9, 2025 | Attraction, Blog

Winter outing: Dog sledding, an authentic adventure

Immerse yourself in the magic of winter in Petite Nation When winter sets in at Petite Nation, the landscape is transformed into a magical playground for winter sports enthusiasts.

January 2, 2025 | Blog, Event

Entertainment venues in Petite Nation

in Petite Nation A cultural spectrum to discover In Petite Nation, the cultural offering is vast and diverse, catering to all tastes and styles. Whether you prefer a large concert hall or a [...]

December 9, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

ice SUP

en Petite Nation A unique adventure on the river this winter Have you ever dreamed of gliding across the water in the middle of winter, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes? Discover SUP [...]

December 8, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Sliding and skating: winter pleasures

In Petite Nation Discover the joys of winter Winter in Petite Nation is intensely alive thanks to our many toboggan runs and ice trails! Whether you're looking for [...]

December 4, 2024 | Article, Event

Ceramics exhibition: Making art

Ceramics exhibition: Making art

December 4, 2024 | Blog, Event

Celebrate the magic of the holidays in Petite Nation

Creative workshops and Christmas markets to discover! The holiday season is fast approaching, and at Petite Nation we've got just the thing to make it even more festive!

December 1, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Nightlife escape: accommodations with a difference

From luxury to atypical refuges and mytic inns, a multitude of options are available for an unforgettable stay. This winter in Petite Nation. Whether you're looking for a [...]

December 1, 2024 | Attraction, Blog, Event

Discover Petite Nation from A to Z

Discover Petite Nation from A to Z 26 good reasons to plan a visit to Petite Nation this winter Winter in Petite Nation is much more than a [...].

November 27, 2024 | Blog, Event

Must-see events

en Petite Nation Not-to-be-missed events Our region is brimming with activities and festivities to delight young and old alike. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a cultural aficionado or a [...]

November 5, 2024 | Blog, Event

The magic of the holiday season at Marché de Noël de Montebello

en Petite Nation Discover the unique atmosphere and local treasures for an unforgettable Christmas The streets of Montebello light up once again to welcome one of the most eagerly awaited events of [...].

November 5, 2024 | 350th, Article

History in the making

2024 commemorates the 350th anniversary of the granting of the seigneury of Petite-Nation. The MRC de Papineau is taking advantage of this important anniversary to explore the [...]

October 1, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Autumn walks

in Petite Nation Explore the hiking trails

September 26, 2024 | Article, Attraction

Discover the brand-new panoramic chalets at Parc Omega

Luxurious accommodation in the heart of the wilderness An immersive new experience awaits you on the highest summit of Parc Omega, where fallow deer and white-tailed deer [...].

September 23, 2024 | Attraction, Blog, Event

Vineyards and cider mills

in Petite Nation Discover the treasures of wine and cider this autumn Autumn in Petite Nation is a season of discovery and delight for wine and cider lovers.

September 9, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Center d'art populaire du Québec

Summer 2024 Dive into Quebec folk art! Summer 2024 will mark a major turning point in Quebec's cultural landscape with the opening of the Centre d'art populaire du Québec (CAPQ), a new [...].

September 1, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Spotlight on Montebello's artists and artisans

Montebello is renowned for its country side and its artisans. Discover this charming village-relais through its renowned artists and craftspeople. Let yourself be transported by this gourmet hike, cultural and [...]

August 28, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

We'll send you golfing!

in Petite Nation, we send you golfing! The region is renowned for the magnificence of its golf courses, which can be found at Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette, Lochaber-Partie-Ouest, Montebello, Montpellier and Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix. Every [...]

August 15, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

A gourmet stroll for dinner with friends or loved ones

en Petite Nation Restaurants for an unforgettable dinner En Petite Nation is renowned for its picturesque scenery and serene atmosphere, making it the ideal setting for a gastronomic getaway. [...]

August 14, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

The Bucolic Roads

A journey through panoramas, gastronomy and culture Discover The Bucolic Roads in Petite Nation, a real gem for lovers of landscapes set in tranquility. As you explore the [...]

August 14, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Atelier Galerie Solart invites you to Ripon this summer!

Celebrating life with creativity and humanity. Founded in 1999 by artist Michelle Lemire, Atelier Galerie SOLART is a creation, training and exhibition center specializing in ceramics, porcelain and [...].

August 12, 2024 | Blog, Event

Petite Nation en fête and the Festival des vins et spiritueux de l’Outaouais

August 14 to 17 A rich and varied program The summer of 2024 promises to be a memorable one in Thurso, with the second edition of Petite Nation en fête and the anticipated return of the [...].

August 12, 2024 | Blog, Event

Ripon Trad 2024: A festival not to be missed

5th edition It promises memorable moments with major headliners and an eclectic program From September 12 to 15, 2024, Ripon will host the fifth edition of the Ripon Festival [...].

August 1, 2024 | Event

Culture days

Culture Days 2024

July 30, 2024 | Attraction, Blog, Event

Public procurement

en Petite Nation A gourmet journey to the heart of our communities En Petite Nation is a rural gem brimming with gustatory and cultural treasures. Among its many assets, [...]

July 25, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Follow Noée and Mélie

in Petite Nation Discover hidden treasures Follow our two mobile tourist information officers on TikTok

July 22, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Thrift shops, treasures to discover

en Petite Nation Buying used: a gesture for the environment and the local economy Buying used items offers considerable environmental and economic benefits. This practice supports the circular economy by prolonging [...]

July 14, 2024 | Article, Blog

Get inspired by influencers

in Petite Nation We are fortunate to welcome many influencers, discover their escapades

July 6, 2024 | Blog, Event

Twist Festival

Festival Twist A celebration of fiber and textile arts in Saint-André-Avellin Saint-André-Avellin will be vibrating to the rhythm of fiber and textile arts at the 12th edition of the [...].

June 27, 2024 | Article, Attraction

3 SÉPAQs with different vocations

en Petite Nation Explore natural treasures En Petite Nation is a magnificent region brimming with breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. It is home to three [...]

June 20, 2024 | Article, Event

This summer, enjoy the music in the parks

A varied musical program not to be missed This summer, Petite Nation comes alive with a series of outdoor concerts in our magnificent parks. In an intimate setting, [...]

June 18, 2024 | Blog, Event

Immerse yourself in the authenticity of the Festival Western in Saint-André-Avellin

July 18 to 28, 2024 Discover Western culture in the Petite Nation The Festival Western de Saint-André-Avellin returns this year, from July 18 to 28, 2024, to [...].

June 13, 2024 | Blog, Event

Fête nationale du Québec 2024 - in Petite Nation

en Petite Nation Célébrons This year, we're inviting Petite Nation residents, cottagers and tourists to gather under the stars on June 23 and 24! We look forward to [...]

June 7, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Cycling in the Petite Nation

in Petite Nation Cycling: an adventure for everyone Cycling has become a versatile discipline, offering a multitude of options for all cycling enthusiasts. In Petite Nation, [...]

June 7, 2024 | Attraction, Blog, Event

Outaouais Adventure

Outaouais Adventure This summer, discover the Petite Nation The Petite Nation, renowned for its rich history and extraordinary agri-tourism sector, opens its doors to you this summer with [...].

May 23, 2024 | Article, Attraction

Discover history and culture at Manoir Papineau

A journey through time The Manoir Papineau National Historic Site in Montebello is a historical treasure trove that offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century Canadian history. [...]

May 21, 2024 | Attraction, Blog, Event

Public procurement

en Petite Nation A gourmet journey to the heart of our communities En Petite Nation is a rural gem brimming with gustatory and cultural treasures. Among its many assets, [...]

May 3, 2024 | Attraction, Press release

A new summer at Parc national de Plaisance

Plaisance, May 2, 2024 - The arrival of warmer weather means outdoor fun. The desire to enjoy the great outdoors, to get out on your bike, or to observe the effects of the [...]

April 27, 2024 | Article, Attraction

A spring fishing adventure

in Petite Nation We send you fishing With the return of spring, the Petite Nation tourist region comes alive, inviting fishing enthusiasts to explore its abundant waters. From [...]

January 29, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

This winter, reconnect in Petite Nation

Come back down to earth En Petite Nation is about reconnecting with yourself and nature. It's home to a number of must-see attractions, including the Fairmont Château Montebello and Parc Omega. Located [...]

January 27, 2024 | Article, Attraction

VELOVELO - Montebello Fatbike

Video Montebello Vélo de Montagne Patrick Lacroix takes us on an exploration of the fat bike trails of Montebello Vélo de Montagne. He pedals with two companions [...].

January 21, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

Petite Nation is all about reconnecting with yourself and nature.

Petite Nation is all about reconnecting with yourself and nature.

January 12, 2024 | Attraction, Blog

hikes hivernales: discover snow-covered treasures

That said, Petite Nation is an excellent choice of destination for the week of winter break.

January 11, 2024 | Attraction, Press release

New accommodation for Parc Omega: sleep closer to the deer

Investment New accommodation for Parc Omega

December 13, 2023 | 350th, Press release

Un Moulin disparu - The common mill of the Petite-Nation seigneury

Papineauville, December 8, 2023 - This book was written by a collective of authors to mark the 200th anniversary of the banal mill of the Petite-Nation seigneury. It tells the [...]

November 14, 2023 | Attraction, Press release

Parc Omega wins prestigious Thomas R. Baines Award

Montebello, November 13, 2023 - Parc Oméga has been awarded the Thomas R. Baines Award (Great Institution) by the Association of Accredited Zoos and Aquariums of Canada (AACZ), [...].

October 11, 2023 | Attraction, Press release

Groundbreaking ceremony for parc régional de la forêt Bowman

Bowman, October 11, 2023- A visitor pavilion will be erected at Parc régional de la forêt Bowman by spring 2025. The groundbreaking ceremony took place this morning [...].

September 14, 2023 | Article, Attraction

A winning trio in Petite Nation

Autumn in the Petite Nation is synonymous with events, gourmet delights and hiking. Several shows are scheduled at Salle Desjardins in Papi- neauville. Among others, Mathieu [...] will be performing [...

June 29, 2023 | Attraction, Press release

Parc Oméga enhances visitor experience with $13 million in investments

Montebello, Thursday, June 29, 2023 - Popular for its unique wildlife experiences, Parc Oméga is enhancing its visitors' experience with [...].

June 24, 2023 | Press release

Le Diable à Cinq becomes the official carrier in Petite Nation

Chénéville, June 24, 2023- Folk music group Le Diable à Cinq becomes official spokesperson for Petite Nation. The MRC de Papineau, wishing to put forward the image of the [...]

March 23, 2023 | Attraction, Blog

Accommodation to suit all tastes in Petite Nation

Stays You need to plan a few days' stay in Petite Nation We often talk about activities and attractions in Petite Nation. To make the most of them, you'll need to plan a few days in advance.

February 23, 2023 | Attraction, Blog

Three family destinations in the Outaouais - Au Québ

January 24, 2023 | Attraction, Blog

Winter in Petite Nation: a perfect destination for the week of winter break

Many families take advantage of winter break week to make memories with their children. En Petite Nation is the ideal place to experience a wide range of beautiful moments, [...].

January 14, 2023 | Attraction, Blog

Silo57.ca - 6 ideas for winter getaways from the daily grind

December 23, 2022 | Attraction, Blog

Winter tour ideas for couples

December 23, 2022 | Attraction, Blog

Family winter tour ideas

December 23, 2022 | Attraction, Blog

Winter tour ideas with friends

November 18, 2022 | Attraction, Press release

The Nature Conservancy of Canada and the Kenauk Institute set up an open-air research laboratory

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) and the Kenauk Institute (KI) have teamed up to create a permanent open-air research and education laboratory dedicated to the study of the impacts of climate [...].

May 19, 2022 | Attraction, Blog

Tour ideas for couples

Finding yourself as a couple in Petite Nation means reconnecting with each other

May 19, 2022 | Attraction, Blog

Family tour ideas

One weekend is clearly not enough, here's the proof

May 19, 2022 | Attraction, Blog

Tour ideas with friends

What better way to get away from it all than to spend some quality time with friends?

April 6, 2022 | Press release

Michel Tremblay reunites with Duhamel

April 4, 2022 - The municipality of Duhamel announces the honorary appointment of its newly renovated library, which will take place on May 7, 2022, at 2 p.m., on the occasion [...].

March 1, 2022 | Attraction, Press release

parcoursdeau.com - 79 video capsules

A fantastic online exhibition on the Papineau RCM Plaisance, February 28, 2022 - Patrimoine Papineau and Cinémanima inc. are proud to announce the online launch today of [...].

February 9, 2022 | Attraction, Blog

For an unforgettable week of winter break in Petite Nation

Monday To start the week off on the right foot, we're off to Ripon for a day at Ripon's Black Mountains Park. On the agenda: tobogganing, cross-country skiing, a hike to the [...]

February 9, 2022 | Attraction, Blog

Seven must-sees for Valentine's Day in Petite Nation

Chocomotive You can't miss it. Chocomotive springs to mind when we think of celebrating Valentine's Day. You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to [...]

November 16, 2021 | Attraction, Blog

Cultural tourism in Petite Nation

Back on Earth, it's about taking (all) the time you need to have a good time In Petite Nation, in the heart of the villages and along the back roads, a thousand and one attractions [...].

November 2, 2021 | Attraction, Press release

A new species at Parc Oméga!

Parc Omega A successful inter-species cohabitation between goats and foxes! The Rocky Mountain goats, already present at Parc Omega for several years, have had their habitat enriched [...].

October 4, 2021 | Attraction, Press release

Project for an economuseum of traditional sawmills in Duhamel

Project to save ancestral sawmills in Duhamel Duhamel - Duhamel Mayor David Pharand and Pierre Bernier, General Manager of North Nation Mills Corporation Inc.

June 2, 2021 | Attraction, Blog

What's new in Petite Nation this summer?

A long-awaited reopening The Manoir Papineau National Historic Site in Montebello will welcome visitors on June 26, after a two-year closure during which major renovations were [...].

December 1, 2020 | Blog

Sugar time, a sweet tradition

in Petite Nation For a gourmet hike, tradition and sweet pleasure The end of winter in Petite Nation would not be complete without a visit to its maple groves. Anchored [...]

October 13, 2020 | Attraction, Blog

Québec le Mag' presents a Petite Nation winter

August 19, 2020 | Attraction, Blog

Discover the flavors of Petite Nation

The craze for local produce has never been stronger than this year, and that's a good thing! As summer progresses, so do the harvests and, with them, the abundance of local [...]

August 17, 2020 | Attraction, Blog

The many attractions of Petite-Nation

(Saint-André-Avellin) Sometimes it doesn't take much to set off on an adventure. The call of smoked meat, for example, at Carbo Barbecue on the banks of a pretty stream in Duhamel, justifies [...].

August 17, 2020 | Attraction, Blog

Getaway to the chic village of Montebello

Less than 1.5 hours from Montreal, we spent the day discovering the Montebello region. We headed for a village rich in diversified activities, history and [...]

August 17, 2020 | Attraction, Blog

Le Brasse-Camarade, the convenience store with a soul

"We're definitely out of the ordinary. People come in here for the first time and say, 'Well, you're not a real convenience store! It's true, we are [...]

July 27, 2020 | Article, Attraction

New on the Route verte!

July 17, 2020 | Attraction, Blog

How about a trip to Montebello this summer?

Montebello sounds familiar to many of us, mainly because the region is associated with the Fairmont Château Montebello hotel. But who can claim to know this region so well, even though it has [...]

June 2, 2020 | Article, Attraction

Heritage tours

In Petite Nation, 7 circuits allow you to discover local history Chénéville Interpretation Circuit Duhamel Interpretation Circuit Lac-Simon Interpretation Circuit Papineauville Interpretation Circuit Lac-Simon Interpretation Circuit Papineauville Interpretation Circuit Papineauville Interpretation Circuit Papineauville Interpretation Circuit [...].

January 1, 2020 | Attraction, Blog

From inspiration to gesture: let your creativity do the talking

en Petite Nation Explore our creative workshops Creativity expresses itself in a thousand forms, from visual arts to crafts to culinary arts. Whether you want to learn [...]

June 29, 2018 | Article, Attraction

Births and accommodations at Parc Oméga!

When it comes to Canadian nature and wildlife, Omega Park is the place to be. Among the many privileges available to visitors, the observation of newborns and the [...]

June 29, 2018 | Article, Attraction

Unique family moments at Duhamel

Any parent who has ever set foot on the immense beach of Centre touristique du Lac-Simon with their offspring will tell you that this place is a veritable paradise for [...].

June 29, 2018 | Article, Attraction

The omnipresent lake trout

By Michel Moyneur Whether you call them grayling, lake trout or lake trout, one fact remains: the waterways of Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle are overflowing with lake trout. The [...]