Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau

Discover the Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour, a highly-rated (5.0/5 from 71 reviews) day trip that offers an immersive taste of Canada’s Pontiac region. Priced at $133.06 per person, this 7-hour experience departs conveniently from Ottawa and Gatineau, with round-trip transfers and pickup included. The tour takes you through three distinct stops, each showcasing local wines and ciders, complemented by snacks, a hearty lunch, and opportunities to meet the producers. Known for its small group size—max 14 travelers—this tour ensures personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide.

The tour’s popularity is clear, with consistent praise for the expert guides, stunning scenery, and delicious, local products. It suits anyone interested in regional wines, ciders, and the stories behind small family-run producers, though it requires a good weather day and a willingness to indulge in multiple tastings.

Key Points

• Price point of $133.06 includes transport, tastings, lunch, and snacks
• 7-hour experience with round-trip pickup from Ottawa and Gatineau
• Three stops: Domaine de Pontiac Village, Little Red Wagon Winery, and Cidrerie Coronation Hall Cider Mills
• Tastings include wine, cider, and sweet treats, plus a cheese and charcuterie board
• Tour operates in good weather, with a maximum of 14 guests for a personalized experience
• Guide-driven tour that shares regional history and stories along the route

Exploring Pontiac’s Family-Run Wineries and Cideries

The tour begins at Domaine de Pontiac Village, a family-operated winery that also features a vintage car museum. Here, you enjoy three wine tastings and get an introduction to the region’s viticulture in a setting that emphasizes local craftsmanship. The spot offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect first stop.

Next, the group visits Little Red Wagon Winery, which provides a guided tour of the winery. You sample five different wines, paired with a generous cheese and charcuterie board, making this a highlight for those who appreciate well-curated local products. The winery’s personal touch and informative guide make it easy to understand how each wine is crafted.

The last stop is Cidrerie Coronation Hall Cider Mills, situated in an old dance hall dating back to the 1930s. This location offers a delightful cider tasting experience, featuring hard, hopped, and sweet cider varieties. Guests also indulge in a classic apple pie or apple crumble, served with the cider, adding a sweet finish to the day.

Convenient Round-Trip Transfers from Ottawa and Gatineau

One of the tour’s strengths is the included transportation, which takes away the hassle of driving yourself. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, and pickup and drop-off are available from central Ottawa and Gatineau locations. The meeting time of 11:00 am allows a relaxed start, and the tour concludes around 6:00 pm, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

This setup benefits guests who prefer to relax and focus on tastings rather than navigating roads or parking. The group size, capped at 14 travelers, enhances the experience, fostering friendly interactions and more attention from the guide.

What Makes Each Stop Unique

Domaine de Pontiac Village offers a blend of wine tasting and history, thanks to its museum and family roots. The three tastings here give an initial taste of regional wine quality, setting the mood for the day.

Little Red Wagon Winery stands out because of its personalized tour and the diversity of five wine samples. The cheese and charcuterie board enhances the tasting experience, making it suitable for sharing and savoring.

At Cidrerie Coronation Hall, the setting in a historic dance hall makes it a memorable venue. The ciders are a highlight, with varieties that range from sweet to hopped, providing a comprehensive cider tasting encounter. The apple pie or crumble adds a satisfying sweet note, appreciated by many for its quality and flavor.

The Food and Snacks Included in the Day

A filling lunch is part of this tour, with the cheese and charcuterie board at Little Red Wagon being a standout. The tour also includes snacks en route, such as Miss Vickies chips, Rice Krispies, and Bear Paws, conveniently provided in the van. These snacks help maintain energy during the day and give a taste of local treats.

Guests are encouraged to bring extra snacks or a hearty breakfast, especially because the lunch might be light for some. The apple pie or crumble served at the cider stop offers a delicious, homemade-style dessert to round out the tasting experience.

The Role of the Guide and Reviews of the Experience

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with some reviewers mentioning guides like Zachary and Brandon as enthusiastic, friendly, and full of stories. The guides do a great job of explaining the history of the region, the specifics of each winery and cider house, and making sure everyone feels engaged.

Reviewers also praise the scenic drive along Highway 148, describing it as beautiful and colorful, especially during the leaf-changing season. The small group size and personalized attention emerge as key strengths, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Flexibility and Practical Tips for the Tour

Since the tour operates only in good weather, bad weather can cause cancellations or rescheduling. Participants should consider bringing a bag lunch, as the tour’s included food may not be enough for those with larger appetites. Snacks are provided, but many travelers prefer to supplement with their own.

The tour starts promptly at 11:00 am and ends around 6:00 pm, so planning a relaxed morning is advisable. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the stops, especially in the vineyards and cider mills, though the overall pace remains manageable.

Pricing and Overall Value

Priced at $133.06 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience including transport, guided visits, tastings, lunch, and snacks. The consistent five-star reviews underline the value, especially considering the small-group intimacy and the variety of products tasted.

While the tour is non-refundable, its popularity and positive feedback suggest it remains an excellent choice for those wanting a full day of tasting and regional exploration without the hassle of self-driving.

Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour: An Authentic Taste of the Region

This tour provides a well-organized, engaging experience for anyone interested in local wines and ciders, combined with scenic drives and helpful guides. The stops at Domaine de Pontiac Village, Little Red Wagon Winery, and Cidrerie Coronation Hall showcase the diversity of the Pontiac region’s producers.

The included food and snacks, paired with educational commentary and friendly hosts, make this tour a great value for the price. It suits wine and cider enthusiasts, history lovers, or anyone seeking a relaxed day exploring Ottawa’s nearby rural charm.

The small group size and personalized attention ensure a comfortable, memorable outing. For those planning a visit to Ottawa or Gatineau, this tour offers a convenient, enjoyable way to discover the region’s culinary treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour?
The tour costs $133.06 per person, including transportation, tastings, lunch, and snacks.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 11:00 am and ending around 6:00 pm.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs with round-trip pickup and drop-off from Ottawa and Gatineau locations.

What stops are included on the tour?
You visit Domaine de Pontiac Village, Little Red Wagon Winery, and Cidrerie Coronation Hall.

Are lunch and snacks included?
Yes, a lunch with cheese and charcuterie, snacks en route, and apple crumble or pie at the cider mill are included.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable in all weather conditions?
No, it requires good weather; cancellations or rescheduling occur if weather conditions are poor.

What kind of products are tasted?
Guests sample wine, cider, and sweet apple desserts.

How informative are the guides?
Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging, sharing regional stories and history.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is fixed with specific stops; however, it offers flexibility in snacks and timing within the scheduled day.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most reviews suggest it suits a wide range of ages, especially those interested in local food and drink.