15km from Gracefield · 2 sites · LodgingWelcome to The Maple Ridge Retreat!
The Ultimate Adventure! Located in the breathtaking Blue Sea QC, only 90m from Downtown Ottawa, this romantic retreat is your destination for complete relaxation or exploration of nature! Sitting on 30 private acres, enjoy a trail that leads to water-views and kayaks. Perfect for hiking in the summer or snow shoeing in the winter. Enjoy the beautiful views overlooking the trees, and a fire pit!
This space is unique - and off grid. Please read the details about the listing to help determine if its right for you.
Welcome to The Maple Ridge Retreat. Your destination for complete relaxation. This chalet has direct access to our private nature trail nestled on our 30 acres that leads to waterfront access on the beautiful Lac Long. The nature trail is great for snow shoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter, summer day hiking and exploring Lac Long in the warmer months. Follow the trail to the water and you’ll find kayaks, a canoe and a cedar dock to launch yourself onto Lac Long and explore the beautiful waters. Fishing in the lake is fantastic as well you can do that from the raft or by canoe.
This is an off-grid cabin located in Blue Sea, QC. On 30 acres of wilderness. The cabin is 3 season and insulated with a woodburning stove to keep yourselves warm and toasty. Solar power energy, outhouse, out door shower (rain dependent), propane bbq and of course an outdoor fire pit. Everything you need to quickly settle into relaxation and peace.
OFF-GRID FEATURES: The a-frame uses solar panels for lighting. There is an outdoor shower that is rain fed. Relying on rain and sun means that if there hasn't been any - these amenities won't be available. We recommend you bring along your own flash lights incase our solar panel is low on power. Bring along your portable chargers as there is some cell service up in this neck of the woods. Though the strength seems to vary depending on your device and your carrier. NO WIFI.
A-FRAME AMENITIES: The last resort has one queen bed with bedding included. Solar lights inside the redneck bathroom and cabin. Deck with Adirondack chairs for lounging. Solar lighting surrounding the area. Propane BBQ. Outdoor fireplace with chairs. Bedding. Towels. Basic amenities included. Bring your bug spray, water, and food for a for a perfect quiet getaway. The a-frame has some games, cards, and books for you to enjoy as well. Please note we do not provide firewood, we can deliver some for a small fee, or you are more than welcome to bring your own.
Off-grid means an outhouse -- woohoo. There is a rain collection barrel water system for an outdoor shower and to wash your hands and things. Again -- if there hasn't been any rain -- there will not be any water. Keep this in mind please. The water is not potable. We highly encourage you to bring enough water to boil, drink, and wash your hands / self with. We do have an outdoor water source close by if you need to refill your jugs.
We have parking available for a car or two. Its in a cleared spot on our 30 acres close to the a-frame. Park your vehicle - grab your belongings - a short jaunt through the trees / woods will lead you to the secluded a-frame. This is a 'walk in' listing. You must carry your things from the parking area about a minute leading to the a-frame. There are no facilities to store food in the a-frame so please bring along your cooler and ice.
Bring your hiking shoes and take a stroll through the beautiful private land. There is some wildlife so keep your food in the a-frame or in closed containers. Close to the cabin is waterfront and our private nature trail -- with a dock and kayaks-- its at the end of the lake but none the less -- its beautiful, peaceful and calm. Fishing is fantastic on a few of the lakes close by. There is a public beach about 12 minutes away from the chalet.
We have everything you need to recharge your batteries and truly enjoy nature.
The cabins electrical is run off solar power. Extended periods of overcast weather may temporarily impact the availability of power. We do not supply firewood -- we have a bit stocked up from clearing the land you are free to use until its gone -- feel free to scavenge some of the dead wood in the forest and around the cabin -- an axe and a little manual labour voila free firewood. You are also welcome to bring your own chopped wood.
Lac Long is the lake closest to the a-frame. We have a trail for direct water access. We also offer two kayaks and a dock for guests to use during their stay. Just follow the trail closest to the cottage and it will lead you to the water. About a 10m walk.
Lac Blue Sea is 13 minutes from the a-frame - There is a sandy beach on Lac Blue Sea for swimming. Wonderful lake for fishing.
Blue Sea is a hidden gem for nature lovers, offering a variety of outdoor activities and natural wonders to explore. From hiking trails to lakes and parks, Blue Sea has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure in the great outdoors, Blue Sea is the perfect destination.
Attractions
•Blue Sea Lake: This beautiful lake is the main attraction in the area. It is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are several beaches around the lake, including the popular Blue Sea Beach.
•Mont Morissette: This mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching.
•Parc des Montagnes Noires: This park is located just outside of Blue Sea and offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a lookout tower.
•Blue Sea Provincial Park: This park is located on the shores of Blue Sea Lake and offers camping, hiking, and swimming.
•Blue Sea Heritage Trail: This trail takes visitors on a journey through the history of Blue Sea, with several interpretive panels along the way.
•Blue Sea Farmers' Market: This market is held every Saturday during the summer months and offers fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Natural Wonders
•Blue Sea Lake: This large lake is known for its crystal-clear water and sandy beaches.
•Mont Morissette: This mountain is home to several species of birds, including the endangered Quebec Harlequin Duck.
•Parc des Montagnes Noires: This park is home to several species of wildlife, including moose, black bears, and beavers.
•Blue Sea Provincial Park: This park is home to several species of fish, including lake trout and walleye.
•Blue Sea Heritage Trail: This trail takes visitors through several different ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and rocky outcrops.
•Blue Sea Farmers' Market: This market offers visitors a chance to sample some of the local produce and crafts.
Festivals
•Blue Sea Country Festival: This festival is held every August and features live music, food, and crafts.
•Blue Sea Winter Carnival: This carnival is held every February and features ice skating, snowshoeing, and other winter activities.
Nearby attractions: ranging from 3km ++
Trans Canada Trail - This network of multi-use recreational trails is the longest in the world and stretches more than 17,398 miles across every province and territory. It showcases Canada’s diverse landscapes and cultures, and is a sustainable national asset that fosters unity, collaboration and connectedness.
Véloroute des Draveurs - This bike path, featuring a 72 km stretch of gravel dust and 28 kilometres of paved road (between Gracefield and Messines) will treat you to a variety of scenery. Alongside several crystalline lakes, forests and farmlands. One of the first sections of the Trans Canada Trail in Québec.
Sugar Shack - Érablière Domaine du Cerf enr. Come indulge your sweet tooth at Domaine du Cerf!
Parc régional du Mont Morissette - Mont Morissette, in Blue Sea, covers an area of 589 hectares (1,455 acres) and stands 400 m (1,312 ft.) high. Nature lovers can enjoy 13 km (8 mi.) of marked hiking and snowshoeing trails. Site also features a shelter with wood stove, lookout and heritage fire tower.
Boat Rentals – Messines Marina
Golf and Berries - Les Fruits Du Sommet / Club De Golf Le Sommet - Come harvest 10 varieties of raspberry and 7 varieties of blueberries. From mid-July to the end of August. Come try 9-hole executive golf course, with a total normal of 31.The farm offers fresh fruits and various local products.
Art gallery - Le Presbytère de Blue Sea - Located in Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, the Blue Sea Rectory is a wonderful and welcoming place for residents, vacationers, and tourists. It features an art gallery, a tourist information desk, free Wi-Fi, and a community garden.
Ferme Au Soleil Levant - This farm first planted berries in 2009. It boasts seven varieties of haskaps and 10 types of blueberries. These berries rich in antioxidants can be picked and consumed fresh and can be easily processed.
The Cedar lakes recreational trail - A 15-km (9.3-mi.) trail network located in the forest between the two Cèdres lakes in the municipality of Messines. The trails are maintained for hiking in the summer and for skiing in its northern portion in the winter.
Dog sledding – Escapade Huskimo - 1378 Rt. 301, Otter Lake (Québec), Canada
Travel along magnificent lakeside and woodland trails in the scenic Pontiac. Escapade Huskimo offers visitors a memorable dog sledding experience. Why not round off the activity with a relaxing soak in the indoor hot tub? Several packages available.
Snow Shoeing / Cross Country Skiing - Parc régional du Mont Morissette - Mont Morissette, in Blue Sea, covers an area of 589 hectares (1,455 acres) and stands 400 m (1,312 ft.) high. Nature lovers can enjoy 13 km (8 mi.) of marked hiking and snowshoeing trails. Site also features a shelter with wood stove, lookout and heritage fire tower.
Snow Mobiling - Véloroute des Draveurs - This snowmobile path, featuring a 72 km stretch of gravel dust and 28 kilometres of paved road (between Gracefield and Messines) will treat you to a variety of scenery. Alongside several crystalline lakes, forests and farmlands. One of the first sections of the Trans Canada Trail in Québec.
Dogsledding - Maple Sap Harvesting - Ferme L'Aventure invites you to experience an exciting outdoor adventure. Offers to share our passion with you and introduces you to our small dog pack of Alankan and Eurohound.
Skii Snowboard - Mont Ste Marie - Mont Ste-Marie isn’t just a pretty mountain, although it is that too. We also boast the highest vertical in the area. So, you can appreciate the scenery as you speed down our slopes. And with a great mix of runs ranging from easy to expert, there is no shortage of ways to get down our mountain.
Sentiers De Ski De Fond De Blue Sea - Hiking area - Cross country skiing
Playing fields - Municipal center located at 10 rue Principale - Soccer field - Playground with structures - Tennis court - Volleyball court.
Cross-country skiing
10 km of well-kept trails and shelter with wood stove Available parking located on Chemin du cimetière
Skating rink - Municipal center located at 10 rue Principale
Snowmobile
600 km of well-kept and marked trails - Parking available in Blue Sea, on Chemin de la gare
Curling - Vallée-de-la-Gatineau Curling Club in Maniwaki. It has two rinks, a reception hall, a bar, a kitchen and a large parking lot.
