Quebec Craft Beer Tour – From Ottawa & Gatineau

Exploring Gatineau’s Craft Beer Scene: An Authentic Brewery Tour Experience

If you’re a lover of well-crafted beers and want a taste of local life in Quebec, the Quebec Craft Beer Tour from Ottawa & Gatineau offers a compelling journey. This organized outing isn’t just about sampling beers; it’s about connecting with the community behind those brews, enjoying behind-the-scenes insights, and tasting some of the best artisanal products Gatineau has to offer.

What we love about this tour is its focus on local microbreweries, which are often the backbone of their communities—places where beer isn’t just a product but a point of pride. Also, the inclusive nature of the experience, with transportation included, makes it accessible and hassle-free, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or don’t want to worry about driving.

One possible consideration is the duration of about four hours—a comfortably-paced taste of Gatineau’s beer scene, but it’s a fair chunk of time, especially if you prefer more leisurely or extended visits.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate good beer, enjoy learning about local production methods, and want a fun, social outing with a small group. Perfect for couples, friends, or beer enthusiasts eager to explore Quebec’s burgeoning craft brewing culture.

Key Points

• All-inclusive tour with transportation, tastings, and a hearty dinner
• Visit three unique microbreweries with behind-the-scenes access
• Learn about Gatineau’s brewing history and local craft culture
• Enjoy 12 beer tastings combined with a delicious pulled pork burger meal
• Small group size (max 14) for a personalized experience
• Knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and accessible
• Flexible pickup and drop-off from Ottawa and Gatineau

An In-Depth Look at the Quebec Craft Beer Tour from Ottawa & Gatineau

Setting off from Ottawa or Gatineau, this 4-hour tour offers an immersive way to sample the local craft beer scene while enjoying the comfort of included transportation. The value here is undeniable—compared with the cost of individual brewery visits, tastings, and transportation, this option consolidates them into a single, well-organized experience.

The Tour Itinerary

Stop 1: À La Dérive Brasserie Artisanale in Hull
This first stop sets a friendly tone. Here, we’re served four tastings of artisanal beer, each carefully curated to showcase the brewery’s unique style. Included in the visit is a delicious pulled pork burger with homemade chips and garden salad, making it more than just a quick tasting—it’s a proper meal accompanying the beers. The cozy atmosphere and homemade snacks make this a standout start.

Stop 2: Brasserie Artisanale Gallicus
Next, we visit Gallicus, renowned for their innovative use of oak barrels. What makes this brewery special is the private tour of their production room, giving us a glimpse into the brewing process that’s typically hidden behind the scenes. The four tastings here allow us to experience some of their most unique offerings, which emphasize craftsmanship and creativity. The focus on innovation means you might find some flavors you’ve never encountered before, making this stop especially memorable.

Stop 3: 5e Baron Microbrasserie in Old Aylmer
In the heart of the vibrant Old Aylmer community, 5e Baron offers a relaxed environment to enjoy two tastings, including a full beer. This spot is praised for its friendly atmosphere and great beers, perfect for winding down and absorbing the local vibe. You’ll gain insights into the brewing process while enjoying a full beer—a nice way to cap the tour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• The behind-the-scenes brewery visits provide a behind-the-scenes look at craft brewing, adding depth to the tasting experience.
• The local guide keeps the atmosphere lively and informative, making sure everyone feels included regardless of language barriers (as one reviewer appreciated being involved despite not understanding French).
• The dinner included isn’t just a side note; it’s a hearty, well-prepared pulled pork burger with chips and salad—ample enough for most appetites and a nice break from beer tasting.

Transport & Group Size

One of the biggest benefits is free transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau, which removes the hassle of driving and parking. The tour operates with a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience, where guides can give more personalized attention. The pickup time at 5:30 pm sets the tone for an early evening outing, ideal for those looking to combine this with a day of sightseeing.

Price & Value

At $96.50 per person, this experience is quite good value considering the three brewery visits, 12 tastings, dinner, transportation, and insider tours. When you consider that individual tastings at breweries can easily cost $8–$10 each, the bundled price makes sense, especially with the added convenience of transport and a full meal.

What the Reviews Say

The standout praise is for the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views of Gatineau’s breweries and surrounding landscapes. One reviewer raved about the “enthusiasm” of the guide and how he made the experience inclusive and engaging. Others appreciated the variety of beers and the chance to learn about their production, which added a layer of appreciation beyond just drinking.

Practical Tips

• The tour starts at 5:30 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• Since transportation is included, you don’t need to worry about designated drivers—just bring your enthusiasm.
• The small group size encourages lively conversations and personalized insights.
• Expect ample snacks in the minibus, which helps balance the beer tastings and keeps everyone comfortable.
• The cancellation policy is strict—non-refundable unless the minimum number of travelers isn’t met—so plan accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for beer lovers eager to explore Quebec’s craft brewing scene without the hassle of organizing individual visits. It suits those wanting a social experience with friendly guides and fellow travelers. If you’re curious about local brewing methods or want to try some innovative beers, you’ll find plenty to love.

It’s also great for small groups and couples who appreciate a relaxed yet informative atmosphere. The inclusion of a substantial dinner makes it appealing for those looking to combine a beer tasting with a casual meal.

While it’s accessible for most travelers, those who prefer longer or more leisurely explorations might find the four-hour slot somewhat quick, but for many, it hits the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. The Quebec Craft Beer Tour from Ottawa & Gatineau offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines local culture, craftmanship, and community. The knowledgeable guides, behind-the-scenes access, and generous tastings make it a smart choice for anyone wanting to experience Gatineau’s microbrewery boom firsthand.

The inclusion of transportation, dinner, and a small group setting maximizes value, making this a convenient and enjoyable way to indulge your beer curiosity. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a seasoned connoisseur, this tour provides a fun, educational, and tasty slice of Quebec life.

If you’re visiting Ottawa or Gatineau and want to taste some of the best local brews while learning the stories behind them, this tour is a solid pick. It’s an experience that leaves you with more than just a buzz — you’ll walk away with a greater appreciation for Quebec’s vibrant craft beer scene.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes free pickup and drop-off in Ottawa and Gatineau, making it convenient and safe to enjoy your tastings.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, starting at 5:30 pm.

Can I participate if I don’t speak French?
Absolutely. One reviewer noted that even if you don’t understand French, the guide makes sure you’re involved and comfortable.

What does the dinner include?
The meal consists of a pulled pork burger, homemade chips, and garden salad—more than enough to complement the beer tastings.

How many breweries are visited?
Three microbreweries are included in the itinerary: À La Dérive, Gallicus, and 5e Baron.

Are the tastings unlimited?
While tastings are distributed among the three breweries, you get a total of 12 beer samples, which is ample for most beer enthusiasts.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 14, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this experience suitable for families or children?
The focus on beer tastings and adult-oriented content suggests it’s best suited for travelers over 18.

What if I need to cancel?
The booking is non-refundable unless the minimum traveler requirement isn’t met, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour good value?
Given the included tastings, dinner, transportation, and behind-the-scenes access, most find it to be a very worthwhile experience at the price of $96.50 per person.

To sum it up, the Quebec Craft Beer Tour from Ottawa & Gatineau offers a thoughtfully curated look into Gatineau’s vibrant brewing culture. It combines education, social fun, and authentic flavors—all in a small-group setting with excellent guides. Whether you’re a dedicated beer lover or just looking to try something new and local, this tour makes exploring Quebec’s microbrewery scene accessible and enjoyable.