L’Auberge des Collines in late autumn | L’Auberge des Collines en fin d’automne
There's a stretch of time in Wakefield, between the last of the fall colours and the first real snowfall, when the whole village seems to exhale. The leaf-peepers have gone home, the ski hill hasn't opened yet, and the Gatineau Hills settle into soft shades of grey, brown and deep evergreen. Some call it the in-between season. We like to call it the quiet season, and it might be the best-kept secret of the year.
Morning mist on the Gatineau River | Brume matinale sur la rivière Gatineau.
November rewards travelers who aren't in a hurry. Mornings are crisp, sometimes frosted, and mist rises off the Gatineau River as the sun comes up. With the leaves gone, you can see further into the hills and across the water, and by mid-afternoon the light turns low and soft. It's a season for long walks, slow breakfasts, good books, and early evenings by the fire.
The riverside path into the village | Le sentier riverain vers le village
A Walkable Village
From L'Auberge des Collines, the village is an easy walk. Wander along the river, stop at a café for something warm, browse the galleries and shops, and take in the view from the covered bridge. Without the summer crowds, it's easy to linger and chat with the people who make Wakefield what it is.
Winter is on its way | L’hiver arrive à grands pas
Getting Ready for Ski Season
The quiet doesn't last long. Centre Vorlage, Wakefield's family ski hill, is right across the street from L'Auberge des Collines, and opening day arrives as soon as the weather cooperates. Once the lifts are running, you can ski in the morning, walk back for lunch, and head out again for an evening run under the lights.
Our guests receive 15% off lift tickets and rentals at Vorlage, with the promo code sent in the welcome message before arrival. Vorlage also offers lessons for beginners and kids, a chalet restaurant, and races and events throughout the winter, so there's something for everyone in your group, skiers or not.
If you're planning a winter trip, now is a good time to choose your dates. Weekends and holidays fill quickly once the snow arrives.
Wakefield Christmas Market, Saturday, December 5 | Foire de Noël à Wakefield, samedi 5 décembre (Image: Centre Wakefield La Pêche)
Looking Ahead to December
The quiet season leads into one of Wakefield's favorite traditions. The Wakefield Christmas Market returns on Saturday, December 5, at the Centre Wakefield La Pêche, with more than 60 local vendors. It's a lovely way to start the holiday season in the hills.
However you spend it, November in Wakefield is an invitation to slow down. We hope to welcome you this season.
