Fall for Chelsea

It’s time for a day trip.

Pick a sunny day this month and head for the hills—near Chelsea, Quebec, that is. Here’s our advice on where to hike, eat, play and shop on your day trip to this atmospheric village near Ottawa.

Start with some exercise so you can work up an appetite and do what (let’s face it) you came here to do: sit and admire the spectacular fall colors. Since this is just the first of several Chelsea activities, we’re sending you to the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre on Scott Road to start. An easy trail leads from here into the woods, plus you’ll have a chance to pick up a trail map, use the indoor washrooms and check out exhibits at the centre. Make sure the kids pick out some fallen leaves for a seasonal craft later on.

Chances are you brought snacks, but the family will eventually need a real meal, which is why you’re dropping into delicious and family-friendly Cheezy Luigi’s Pizza, right in the centre of the village. If what you need is either a hot pick-me-up beverage, or a cold happy-hour one instead, try Les Saisons Coffee House or the Chelsea Pub.

But don’t order dessert—you’ll want to grab that at the village’s favorite ice cream shop, La Cigale (now open Friday, Saturday and Sunday only), where the ice cream is made fresh on-site every morning.

A few doors down from La Cigale, curry more favour with a visit to Confiserie Aux Bon Temps, the village’s new candy shop—easy to spot, since it’s painted bright red.

Onward now to your next energy-burning activity: mini-putt golf. Neighbourhood golf course Dunnderosa recently opened Dunn-D’s Mini Golf (currently open Friday through Monday).

Finally, what’s a visit to a place like Chelsea without at least one stop just for you? Having tired the kids out, perhaps you can safely take them into eco-tourism favorite Olivier Soapery, while you browse for something luxurious to take home. You may even be able to arrange a soap-making demonstration if your gang is big enough and you phone ahead.

Enjoy the rustle of fall leaves in the village atmosphere of Chelsea while you can. Chances are the next time you visit, there’ll be skis on the roof of your car. Tested by Patti R., Ottawa

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