The Outaouais region is home to some amazing travel accommodations. From suspended tents to glamping domes, you can certainly find an option that meets your needs. When it comes to luxury accommodations, the Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa certainly stands-out. This establishment is strategically located in the heart of the Gatineau Park in the charming village of Wakefield. In this post, I explain just why you should consider staying here and why it’s worth the price.
Prized Location
The Wakefield Mill is located in the heart of the Gatineau Park inside a building that dates back to the 1830’. Originally erected as a flour mill by William Fairbairn and using the energy produced by the MacLaren Falls, the mill’s use changed multiple times over time. In the 1980’, it was converted into a heritage museum and transformed into the current Wakefield Mill in the early 2000’. Today, the Mill combines heritage with modernity with the addition of a new LEED certified complex with an additional 14 rooms.
The Mill is located not only next to a beautiful waterfall, but also the amazing Gatineau Park. The Gatineau Park is truly an outdoor paradise for adventurers with over 360 km2 of federally protected land and 180 km of hiking trails. Just a few feet of the hotel, you have access to park with trail #56. Also next to the Mill is the village of Wakefield with tons of great little shops, bakeries, and restaurants. Finally, when staying at this establishment, you are near the Gatineau River, a prime location for paddlers alike.
Price
Ok, let’s just get it out there. Staying at the Mill isn’t necessarily cheap. While you can get a room for around $200 a night, a night at the Mill can add up to several hundreds of dollars depending on the package that you choose. Is that expensive? Depending on your budget, no! For all the amenities that are offered and its location, it’s the perfect romantic getaway or weekend escape!
Included in the price of your room is access to their outdoor spaces, including an amazing patio area near the falls and the creek where you can sit and relax with your significant loved one. There are also a few fire pits to warm you up on colder days. Now, the best part, is the included hot tub and pool. You can literally sit in a hot tub with a view of the waterfalls. That alone is worth the price in my mind. Because of its location, you also have access to an array of activities of which I will discuss further below.
The first thing that came to mind when staying there was not only was the Mill beautifully decorated, but it was also very clean. I am a little picky about the cleanliness of hotels I stay in. Service is great with dedicated staff.
What to Do When Staying at the Wakefield Mill
First, why not eat at one of the Wakefield Mill’s restaurants. I quite enjoyed my time at the Heron Wine Bar which offers views of the MacLaren waterfall. There is also the fine dining Muse Restaurant which I have yet to try out, but I have heard good things about from other guests.
Secondly, I recommend you explore the amazing Gatineau Park. Check out the trail #72 which starts from the parking lot P17 of the park or leave from the Mill by taking trail #56. You will be surprised by the beautiful views you will get from the viewpoint. You can also explore the Cross loop trail of the Gatineau Park which starts at parking lot P15. Another option is to hike the Wakefield trail network, including an awesome lookout only a 25-minute walk from the Mill. Check out my custom trails map locator for many more trails to do around the Mill and in the region.
Thirdly, go for a paddle on the Gatineau River. There are many access points along the main street in Wakefield. Don’t already have a paddle board, kayak, or canoe? Visit Expéditions Wakefield to rent all the necessary equipment to have a great day on the river. It is important to note that the river’s current can sometimes be strong, so wear necessary safety equipment and precautions. If you head up the river, you will reach the historical Wakefield Covered Bridge.
For more activities to do in Wakefield, check out my latest blog post where I present 11 awesome things to do in Wakefield. With that, I hope you have an amazing stay at the Mill and while you are in the region, check out other unique and beautiful travel accommodations that are available.
