Peaceful Adventures Between Fishing Sessions
While R&B Retreats is known first and foremost as a fishing retreat, the region offers surprising outdoor gems for families, explorers, and anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Upper Gatineau.
Below is a curated list of beaches, golf courses, walking trails, and cycling routes — all within easy reach of your cabin.
🏖️ Beaches & Lakeside Relaxation
🌅 Lac Heney Boat-Access Beach (Exclusive & Quiet)
5 minutes by boat from your cabin
A small natural beach located on the north end of Lac Heney — only accessible by boat and rarely crowded.
Perfect for:
- swimming
- peaceful shoreline picnics
- sunbathing
- taking a break between morning and evening fishing runs
Tip: Bring a cooler, umbrella, and life jackets — it feels like a private beach.
🌊 Lac Sainte-Marie Beach — Lac Fournier (Public Beach)
20–25 minutes away
Located at the base of the Mont Sainte-Marie ski hill, the beach on Lac Fournier is a favourite among locals, with:
- soft sand
- shallow swimming area
- beautiful mountain backdrop
- restaurants and services nearby
📍 Search: “Lac Sainte-Marie public beach – Lac Fournier” on Google Maps.
⛳ Golf Courses
Golf Lac Sainte-Marie – 25 minutes
A scenic course overlooking the mountains in Lac Sainte-Marie. A favourite among golfers looking for a peaceful yet challenging round.
Algonquin Golf Club – 12 minutes
A relaxed 9-hole course in Messines—easy to get to and ideal for a quick round before or after time on the lake.
Golf Domaine de l’Île Patry – 22 minutes
Located near Lac Sainte-Marie, this picturesque course offers wide fairways, beautiful scenery, and a quiet, natural setting.
🥾 Scenic Walks, Hiking Trails & Nature Exploration
🌄 Sentiers du Lac-Mud – 4–5 km, Easy–Moderate
10–12 minutes from R&B Retreats
Forest trails overlooking Lac Mud, ideal for:
- families
- easy afternoon walks
- wildlife watching
- quiet sunrise or sunset hikes
📍 160 Chemin du Lac Désormeaux, Gracefield
🌲 Mont Morissette Lookout Trails (PERO Outaouais)
20–25 minutes away
A regional favourite offering:
- panoramic forest & lake views
- multiple trail lengths
- quiet scenic lookouts
- great photography spots
Ideal for non-fishing days or relaxed outings.
🚴 Cycling & Mountain Biking
🚴♂️ Véloroute des Draveurs – Rail-Trail Cycling Route
15 minutes from R&B Retreats (starting in Gracefield)
One of the Outaouais region’s top cycling experiences, the Véloroute des Draveurs is a historic rail-trail running along lakes, forests, and rivers.
Perfect for:
- recreational cyclists
- families
- long touring rides
- gravel bike enthusiasts
Smooth terrain, scenic stretches, and multiple stop points.
Ideal half-day or full-day adventure.
🚵♂️ Mont Sainte-Marie Mountain Bike Park
20–25 minutes away
A growing mountain biking destination featuring:
- beginner, intermediate, and expert trails
- downhill and enduro-style tracks
- lift-access terrain during operating periods
- forest loops for cross-country riders
Located at the Mont Sainte-Marie ski resort area — perfect for riders looking for a challenge or a fun afternoon session.
🌿 Other Gentle Outdoor Activities
🛶 Paddling & Kayaking
Head out from your private dock and enjoy:
- calm morning paddles
- wildlife exploration in quiet bays
- sunset shoreline cruises
Bring your own kayaks or ask about local rentals.
📸 Photography & Wildlife Watching
The Upper Gatineau is rich with:
- loons
- otters
- deer
- fish-feeding gulls
- dramatic sunsets
- pristine lake views
Bring binoculars and a camera — you’ll use them.
🔥 Evening Fires & Stargazing
With minimal light pollution, Lac Heney is ideal for:
- stargazing
- watching the Milky Way
- quiet evening fires
- listening to loons echo across the lake
A perfect way to end a fishing day.
❓ Need Directions or Local Tips?
We’re always happy to point you to trailheads, beaches, and other quiet local spots to make your stay even better.
