Winter Weekends: Mattawa Voyageur Country

Maybe you’re looking ahead to March Break; maybe you’re just looking to get out of the city and away from your ordinary sometime before the snow melts. In any case, you should consider Mattawa Voyageur Country for your next winter weekend getaway in Northeastern Ontario.

Mattawa proper is a small town of about 2,000 people, and comes the kind of small-town charm that isn’t always easy to find these days (you can get a taste in this episode of CBC's Still Standing). Mattawa may be small, but it’s mighty in terms of things to do, places to stay, and things to eat. Centrally located in Ontario and a quick drive from Toronto, Ottawa, or Sudbury, Mattawa Voyageur Country is as accessible and hospitable as it is charming.

What to Do

Folks in the area know how to handle winter and Mattawa and the neighbouring communities of Bonfield, Papineau-Cameron, Rutherglen, Calvin, and Mattawan offer a wide range of activities so you can make the most of your weekend getaway.

Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding

If you’re into downhill, paying a visit to Antoine Mountain should be at the top of your list of things to do in Mattawa. Recently under new ownership, Antoine Mountain boasts Ontario’s longest run at 2.9 kilometres, a true vertical of 630 feet, 15 groomed runs, custom terrain park, and a state of the art Doppelmayr quad chair lift. Warm up in the chalet and après café for classic Canadian favourites, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and live music on Saturdays. 

Horseback Riding

Layer up for this wonderful excursion with Von Doeler’s Ranch, located a 20-minute drive from Mattawa itself, in Rutherglen. You’ll meet your guides, who will equip you with safety gear and your mounts for the day. Then head out in the forest for a first-hand glimpse of the ecosystem during the winter months. Your ride culminates at the beautiful Talon Chutes on Talon Lake.

Snowmobiling

For sledders, Mattawa is a haven during the winter months. With access to the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club’s groomed trail system (including the Explorer’s Snow Tour), an impressive annual snowfall, and a wide range of snowmobile-friendly restaurants and accommodations, you’ll love exploring the region from the seat of your sled.

Ice-fishing 

In a land full of lakes, ice fishing is a fun way to spend a day on the ice, and an undeniably Northern activity. Consider booking all-inclusive packages such as this one offered by Big Moose Camp outside of Bonfield, or plan your own ice fishing excursion by starting with this list of accommodation providers.

Snowshoeing & cross-country skiing

For a great way to explore, get some exercise, and maybe encounter some wildlife, strap on some snowshoes or skis and hit the trails. The region offers many places to experience the forest—great locations to start with include the Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park and the Eau Claire Gorge Conservation Area.

Where to Stay

There are many accommodation options to choose from throughout the region, from a historical hotel to a selection of outdoor adventure accommodators. Our list isn’t exhaustive but features some of the highlights that you’re able to choose from to complete your winter weekend in Mattawa.

Mattawa River Resort - 6251 Highway 17 West - (705) 744-5020  
The Voyageur Inn - 351 Main St, Mattawa - (705) 744-2370  
The Valois Motel - 701 Valois Dr, Mattawa - (705) 744-5583  
Mattawa Adventure Camp - 4601 Hwy 17, Mattawa - (705) 744-5127  
The Canadian Ecology Centre - 6905 Hwy 17, Mattawa - (705) 744-1715  
Mattawa Golf & Ski Resort - 2314 Highway 17 East - (705) 744-5818

Where to Eat

Mattawa offers variety to its visitors, so we’ve provided a few options for you to consider getting started with.

The Voyageur Inn is more than “just” a historic hotel in downtown Mattawa—they also have a lovely restaurant that features authentic Thai dishes alongside Canadian classics.

If you’re on the trails or day or just looking for comfort food, stop in for diner classic at the Valois Motel & Restaurant or the Dinner Bell Motel & Restaurant.

Regardless of where your Mattawa & Area adventures take you, you’re sure to sleep well after a day of action in the great outdoors, with a comfy pillow at the end of it.

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