Pontiac Farm Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau

Planning a day away from the city’s hustle and into the peaceful, green countryside? The Pontiac Farm Tour offers a charming glimpse into Canada’s agritourism scene, showcasing a variety of family-run farms, exotic animals, and local food. This tour isn’t just about seeing farms; it’s about connecting with the people who produce our food, petting adorable animals, and tasting local delights—all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

What caught our eye—and yours—about this experience? First, the diversity of farm visits, from yaks to alpacas to ostriches, makes it a full-day adventure packed with surprises. Second, the inclusion of a delicious, homemade lunch at a traditional cider mill adds a satisfying culinary dimension. While some may find the seven-hour duration a bit long for a casual day trip, the well-organized stops, engaging guides, and authentic farm encounters make it worthwhile for those eager to see and taste local farm life firsthand.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s success hinges on good weather; bad weather could mean cancellations or less enjoyable visits. It’s best suited for travelers with a curiosity for rural Canada, families with kids, or anyone interested in sustainable farming and unique animals. If you’re looking for an experience that combines education, fresh air, and delicious food, this trip hits the mark.

Key Points

• Diverse Farms: Visit yak, ostrich, and alpaca farms for varied and engaging encounters.
• Authentic Experiences: Pet animals, learn from passionate farmers, and savor local products.
• Gourmet Lunch: Enjoy a full meal at a traditional cider mill, with cider tasting and apple pie.
• Full-Day Itinerary: About 7 hours of sightseeing, farm visits, and delicious food.
• Group Size: Small groups (max 14), allowing for a more personal experience.
• Weather dependent: Best enjoyed on good weather days to maximize comfort and visibility.

Introduction: Why the Pontiac Farm Tour Stands Out

If you’re in Ottawa or Gatineau and craving a taste of rural life, this farm tour offers an authentic slice of Canadian countryside. It’s the kind of outing that appeals to families, animal lovers, and curious travelers alike. The chance to see exotic animals like yaks and ostriches up close, coupled with the warmth of a family-run cider mill, makes for a memorable day.

We love that the tour is well-paced, covering four different stops, each with its own personality. From the sustainable yak farm to the charming alpaca sanctuary, there’s a sense of discovery at every turn. Plus, the included lunch, featuring local cider and homemade apple pie, adds a satisfying culinary touch that elevates the experience.

One small consideration: the tour’s duration is approximately seven hours, which means a full day’s commitment. However, the well-organized itinerary and engaging guide help make the time fly by. This tour suits travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and want to see the countryside with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Ferme Pure Conscience – Yak Farm

Our journey begins at Ferme Pure Conscience, a sustainable yak farm that offers a fascinating look at these impressive animals. The guided tour here is designed to educate visitors about yak husbandry and sustainable farming practices. What makes this stop special is the chance to pet yaks and sample special treats, making it more than just a sightseeing visit—it’s interactive.

According to one enthusiastic traveler, “The baby alpacas were definitely a highlight,” which hints at the farm’s focus on raising adorable animals that captivate visitors of all ages. The hour-long visit offers plenty of opportunities for photos and questions, giving us a real sense of how passionate the farmers are about their sustainable practices.

Stop 2: Ferme Ostribee – Ostrich Farm

Next, we visit Ferme Ostribee, where ostriches strut around and offer a dramatic contrast to the smaller farm animals. Visitors can expect a 45-minute tour filled with interesting facts about these tall, flightless birds. The farm’s unique focus on ostrich farming provides a chance to learn about their care, their role in local food production, and their fascinating biology.

One reviewer noted that “There was so much to offer,” indicating that the farm provides more than just visual interest—it’s an educational experience as well.

Stop 3: Coronation Hall – The Cider Mill

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Coronation Hall, a traditional cider mill steeped in local history. Here, you’ll enjoy a full tour, learn about cider production, and indulge in a tasting of local cider varieties. The ambiance is charming, and the aroma of apples and cider fills the air.

The included lunch at the cider mill is a real treat—warm apple pie, perhaps, and some of the best local cider. This stop is perfect for food lovers who want to experience a taste of regional craftsmanship. One guest described the experience as allowing them to “savor some of the best apple pie,” which truly underscores the deliciousness on offer.

Stop 4: Les Alpagas de Willow Lane – Alpacas

The final stop is at Les Alpagas de Willow Lane, where the star attractions are the friendly alpacas. These gentle, fluffy creatures are perfect for petting and photo ops. Spending time here is relaxing and offers a genuine chance to connect with these charming animals.

One review mentions, “Get up close with these incredible creatures and pet a few,” capturing the joy of being so near these gentle beings. This stop wraps up the tour on a high note, leaving visitors with memorable images and perhaps a new appreciation for alpaca fiber products.

What’s Included and How It Enhances Value

The tour package includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day comfortable, especially in warmer weather. The guide stays with you throughout, offering insights and answering questions, adding a personalized touch that many travelers appreciate.

A full lunch at the cider mill, along with cider tastings and apple pie, is a thoughtful addition that not only satisfies hunger but also enhances the sense of regional authenticity. Snacks are provided at the lookout, ensuring you stay energized while taking in views and farm scenery.

Small group sizes (up to 14 people) allow for a more intimate experience, where everyone has the chance to engage directly with guides and farmers. This setup fosters a friendly atmosphere and personalized interactions—much appreciated by those who dislike large, impersonal tours.

The Value and Who Will Love It

At $85.37 per person, this tour offers an engaging and well-rounded experience that combines education, interaction, and local flavor. Considering the inclusion of multiple farm visits, a guided tour, transportation, lunch, and tasting, it provides a strong value for anyone interested in authentic rural experiences.

This trip is particularly well suited for families wanting a fun day with animals, foodies eager to sample local cider and pie, and curious travelers who enjoy learning about sustainable farming practices. The friendly guide and small group size make it suitable for children and seniors alike.

The only caveat is that weather can impact the experience, so good weather days are preferable for the best views and farm visits. If rain or poor weather cancels the day, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, which adds a reliable safety net.

The Sum Up

The Pontiac Farm Tour is a genuine and enjoyable way to explore the countryside around Ottawa. With opportunities to pet alpacas, yaks, and ostriches, learn from passionate farmers, and taste regional cider and apple pie, it offers a balanced mix of education, fun, and delicious food.

Perfect for those who want a hands-on experience, this tour provides a glimpse into local sustainable farming practices while giving you a chance to meet the people behind the products. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and authentic farm visits make it a memorable day out.

While it’s best enjoyed on good weather days and may be a long day for some, the richness of what you’ll see and taste justifies the time. It’s a wonderful choice for families, food lovers, and anyone eager to connect with Canada’s rural side.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Ottawa and Gatineau.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including multiple farm visits, lunch, and travel time.

Can I pet the animals during the tour?
Absolutely. You can pet animals, especially at Les Alpagas de Willow Lane and the yak farm, where interaction is encouraged.

What is included in the lunch?
The lunch is a full meal prepared at the cider mill, featuring local cider and apple pie, among other regional delights.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s small group setting and animal encounters make it appealing for families and children of most ages.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.