French Canadians slowly began taking over the population, and by 1920 they made up 90 percent of the people who lived there. When World War II came along 20 years later, the city held Italian and German nationals in prisoner camps. Once the war was over, the town remained quiet until the early 1980s. Old and decaying buildings were torn down and replaced with big office complexes. There are now a large number of parks throughout the city with well-manicured gardens and playgrounds for children. Streams run through the city, making it a beautiful place to live or visit.
When to Visit Gatineau, QC
The best time to visit Gatineau is between March and May, when winter's chill goes away for the year and the temperature slowly starts to rise. Beautiful tulips are blooming everywhere, making a walk in the park an ideal way to spend a spring afternoon. Lac Beauchamp Park is a popular place to visit, a park with over 170 acres to walk around and a small lake in the middle. It can be a busy time though, as tourists start to flock to the area, so book your room in advance if you're considering visiting in the spring.
Winter is also an ideal time to visit Gatineau, as hotel rates start to decrease. There are tons of outdoor activities to take part in for snow bunnies. You can ice skate or relive your hockey days on the Rideau Canal. Lac Beauchamp Park has 15 kilometers of snowshoe and ski trails available in the winter. At the Aylmer Marina, a "Winter Fun" event occurs every January when you can watch ice fishing tournaments, go on sleigh rides, and sip warm drinks by the bonfire. It's fun for the whole family, and a great way to experience the culture of Gatineau.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Gatineau, QC:
Gatineau by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Gatineau, QC. You can use these illustrations to evaluate the best time to make a reservation in Gatineau for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Gatineau, QC
4 Star Average Prices: $121.63
For a real treat, book a stay at the Hilton Lac-Leamy on the waterfront. Each room comes with a flat-screen television, mini bar, and even video game consoles to keep the little ones entertained. Make an appointment at the full-service spa to indulge in all their services, including facials, massages, and body treatments. Afterward, head to the casino to try your hand at gambling or just enjoy all the people-watching. Child care is offered for a fee, so take advantage of this service for a "date night" while on vacation with the family. Children will love the arcade in the hotel.
For another luxurious stay, head to the Ramada Plaza Gatineau/Manoir du Casino. Enjoy spending your evenings by the fireplace in your room while watching television on the LCD screen. Safes are in each room, should you need to lock up any valuable items. Take a swim in the indoor pool, and relax afterwards in the spa tub and sauna. If you are visiting in the winter, ski storage is available to keep all your ski items in one place. The Canadian Museum of History is nearby, as well as Maison du Vélo and Jacques Cartier Park.
Affordable Hotel Options in Gatineau, QC
3 Star Average Prices: $133.75
There are plenty of choices when it comes to finding an affordable hotel in the city. Motel Adam comes with free wireless internet access, cable programming, and air conditioning in each room. Coffee and tea are available in the lobby along with complimentary weekday newspapers to make you feel right at home. A business center is offered with hours around the clock for any last-minute deadlines that may need to be met. Laundry service is offered for busy travelers on-the-go to make sure your clothes are always fresh. The motel is located near the Gatineau Sports Centre and Gatineau Water Aerodrome.
Another option that's easy on the wallet is Motel Montcalm. It is located within close proximity to the National Gallery of Canada and the Promenades de l'Outaouais, and there's no shortage of entertainment around the area. Each room comes with air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a desk to get work done. Wi-Fi is free throughout the motel, and a restaurant is also available for your dining needs. Breakfast is available for a surcharge if you prefer to have it in the hotel. Take advantage of the outdoor seasonal pool and end your day relaxing with a few laps, or just wade around.
