Papineauville, a community of 1,700, is located between Gatineau ( 70 km to the west) and Hawkesbury (45 km to the east) with the Ottawa River to the south and several lakes to the north. The town is named for the famous Quebec political leader. Pioneers used to come to the area’s mill to have their flour ground, though the mill has disappeared. Today the town has a few heritage buildings, several outdoor cafes, and the Catholic Church shows religious painting by artist T. X. Renaud, and there are a number of trails with interpretation by the Monfortain Fathers. The town of Plaisance is just a few kilometres to the west.
The region her is called the “Petite-nation” as a translation of the Algonquin word “Oueskarini,” which was the name of the tribe that inhabited the area before the Papineau family arrived. The phrase translated literally as “people of the little-nation”. The name has also been applied to the river that runs through the area.
Annual Events
Return of the geese (late April-Early May), Musique’en auôt (early August), Grand Tour of Creative Artists (start September).
Municipalite de Papineauville
Papineauville Attractions
Papineauville Cemetery
Tetreault Street, Papineauville
This cemetery is the burial sport of Denis-Benjamin Papineau, and his wife Louise Angelique Cornud, near the ancient maple tree.
Plaisance Falls
100 Malo Range Rd, 5 km north of Plaisance,
Take Principale Street west from Plaisance, at the yellow flashing lights turn right onto “montée Papineau,” and left on “rang Malo”
These historic falls make a 75 metre (25 storey) drop, and visitors can use the hiking trails and observation areas.
There used to be a sawmill here, and the falls are particularly deafening during the spring thaw.
There is a scale model of the former Village of North Nation Mills. Open June 1 to mid October 10 to 6 pm
(also open in off-season; hours vary). Admission $$. Reservations required.
Plaisance Wildlife Reserve
Hwy 148, Plaisance
819-772-3434
Two hiking & biking trails help you experience the sanctuary’s marsh and field habitats. Trails are 1` and 3.5 km long. Catch the spring and fall Canada Goose migration. Picnic areas and unserviced camping sports available. Open daily, late April to mid October. Admission is free.
Plaisance Heritage Centre, Plaisance
Principale Street (Hwy 148), next to church
819-427-6400
The old presbytery hoses the Interpretation Centre. Exhibits reflects the history of the area, and the three different locations of the village, including the Algonquin Indian village, the Village of North Nation Mills, and the current Town of Plaisance, which was founded in 1900. See artifacts unearthed at several archaeological excavations in the area. Open June 24 to labour Day, daily 10 am to 6 pm. Call for off-season hours. Admission $. Reservations required.