Quebec Craft Beer Tour – From Ottawa & Gatineau

Quebec Craft Beer Tour – From Ottawa & Gatineau offers a delightful experience for beer lovers looking to explore the local brewing scene in Gatineau, Quebec. For just $96.50 per person, you’ll enjoy visits to three unique microbreweries over about four hours, including 12 beer tastings, a scrumptious pulled pork burger dinner, and free transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour provides not only tastings but also a chance to learn about the brewing process and Gatineau’s vibrant craft beer culture.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the personalized behind-the-scenes tours at each brewery and the excellent value it offers—combining great beers, local food, and informative insights all in one package. Plus, with pickup and drop-off included, you can relax and enjoy the evening without worrying about driving.

A possible consideration is the tour’s length—about four hours—which is perfect for a relaxed outing, but not suitable if you’re pressed for time or prefer a more extensive tour. It’s especially well-suited for those interested in local culture and craft beer, as well as anyone who enjoys friendly guides and authentic community experiences.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and tasty introduction to Gatineau’s microbrewery scene, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly ideal for curious travelers who appreciate good beer and local hospitality but also value comfort and convenience.

Key Points

• Authentic Microbrewery Visits: Explore three distinct Gatineau breweries with behind-the-scenes access.
• Tastings & Food: Enjoy a total of 12 beer tastings plus a hearty dinner—pulled pork burger with chips and salad.
• Inclusive Transportation: Free pickup and drop-off from Ottawa and Gatineau make it easy and stress-free.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Brandon are praised for their enthusiasm and involvement, even for non-French speakers.
• Compact & Convenient: The 4-hour tour packs in plenty—perfect for a relaxed evening outing.
• Authentic Community Focus: Microbreweries are community pillars, giving insight into local culture and innovation.

A Closer Look at the Quebec Craft Beer Tour

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins in the early evening, with a pickup from Ottawa or Gatineau, setting the tone for an enjoyable night focused on local microbreweries. Expect a friendly, intimate group of up to 14 travelers, creating a relaxed atmosphere where conversation flows easily.

First stop: À La Dérive Brasserie Artisanale in Hull. This brewery is where you’ll sample four beers and sit down to a delicious pulled pork burger, along with homemade chips and a garden salad. The meal is straightforward but well-prepared, providing a filling taste of local cuisine paired with craft beers. One reviewer, Ankit, appreciated how the tour “made sure I didn’t feel left out,” even though he didn’t speak French, highlighting the guide’s inclusive approach.

Next, the group heads to Brasserie Gallicus, known for its innovation with oak barrels. Here, you’ll enjoy four more beer tastings and get a private behind-the-scenes tour of their production room. The use of oak barrels makes their beers stand out, adding an interesting twist for enthusiasts eager to see brewing in action and learn about unique production methods. The personalized tour here is a highlight for many, providing insight into how they craft their distinctive brews.

The final stop is 5e Baron in Old Aylmer, a cozy spot that offers two tastings and a relaxing environment to wind down. This brewery is appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere and the chance to sit back and soak in the local vibe while enjoying your last beers of the evening.

What You Can Expect

Throughout the tour, you’ll get ample opportunities to taste different beer styles, from traditional to inventive brews. The beer tastings are well-paced, and the guide ensures everyone is involved, regardless of language barriers. The behind-the-scenes visits add a layer of authenticity, giving you a glimpse of what goes into each brew.

The included dinner is a practical addition, turning a tasting tour into a satisfying evening. The pulled pork burger is not just a side note but an integral part of the experience—filling, flavorful, and paired well with the beers.

Transportation is seamless—your guide handles pickup and drop-off, so you can focus on enjoying the experience without the stress of navigation or parking. Unlimited snacks and beverages in the minibus also help keep energy up and conversations lively.

Authenticity and Community Spirit

One of the most praised aspects is how microbreweries act as community centers. You’ll learn that these are not mere commercial establishments but local gathering spots that showcase Gatineau’s brewing talent and innovation. The tour’s insider perspective makes the experience more meaningful, especially if you’re interested in the local culture.

The Value of the Experience

At about four hours and $96.50, this tour offers notable value. It combines tastings, food, transportation, and behind-the-scenes insights that would be costly to replicate independently. For beer aficionados and casual enthusiasts alike, the opportunity to try multiple breweries with expert guidance makes this a worthwhile investment.

The Guide and Group Experience

Based on reviews, the guides like Brandon enhance the experience with their enthusiasm and friendliness. Even non-French speakers felt included and involved, which speaks to the tour’s accessible nature. The group size is small enough to foster conversation and a sense of camaraderie, enhancing the social aspect of the tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for beer lovers, especially those who enjoy discovering local flavors and learning about brewing processes. It’s equally suited for culture seekers interested in Gatineau’s community spirit and foodies who appreciate pairing craft beers with hearty, well-prepared meals.

Travelers who value convenience will appreciate the inclusive transportation, and those who prefer a relaxed, social atmosphere will find this tour a memorable highlight of their Gatineau visit.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about four hours, including visits, tastings, and dinner, providing a relaxed yet engaging evening.

What is included in the price?
You get three brewery visits, 12 beer tastings, a hearty pulled pork burger dinner, unlimited snacks and drinks in the minibus, and free transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the evening without worrying about driving.

Are the breweries accessible for non-French speakers?
Yes. The tour guide, like Brandon, is praised for his enthusiasm and inclusiveness, ensuring everyone feels involved regardless of language.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, which fosters a friendly and intimate atmosphere.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure about your plans before confirming.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed for those interested in craft beer, community, and local culture. It’s a relaxed experience suitable for many.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through breweries and sitting comfortably for tastings and meals.

Final Thoughts

The Quebec Craft Beer Tour from Ottawa & Gatineau delivers a well-rounded, authentic look at Gatineau’s vibrant microbrewery scene. Its blend of delicious tastings, behind-the-scenes access, hearty food, and easy transportation makes it a strong choice for anyone eager to explore local craftsmanship without the hassle of planning.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about beer, meeting likeminded travelers, or simply savoring good food and drink in a relaxed setting, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate the community spirit microbreweries embody and want an insider’s view of Gatineau’s brewing scene.

Overall, it offers great value, memorable experiences, and the chance to taste some of Quebec’s best craft beers—all wrapped up in a fun, friendly atmosphere that makes exploring Gatineau’s local scene both accessible and enjoyable.