RCM
Pontiac
Area Map
An RCM (Regional County Municipality) is an administrative division that encompasses several local municipalities to help coordinate land management, economic development, urban planning and regional services.
A brief overview
The Pontiac RCM occupies the largest part of the Outaouais territory (42.2%).
Located at the border of Quebec and Ontario, it benefits from being in close proximity to Ottawa, while maintaining its countryside charm and wild character.
The Pontiac RCM is a vast territory rich in biodiversity and scenery.
The area is home to 14,192 people, which is 3.5% of the region’s population.
The Pontiac population is predominantly English-speaking (57%).
Its total land area is 14,100 km2.
It has a total population of 14,192 people.
Why study here?
The region is home to some of the tallest trees in the province of Quebec, which can be accessed through hiking trails.
Every student finds their place
Schools in the Pontiac offer personalized approaches with small classes, for optimal and flexible learning.
A window on nature
Outdoor activities are included in educational programs, helping young students learn about the environment and ecology.
Bilingual education
The RCM offers education in both French and English to help youth integrate in a bilingual region, as well as programs teaching local history and culture.
Why live here?
Life at a different pace
A serene lifestyle that reinvigorates you every day.
The peacefulness of nature’s wooded landscapes and tranquil rivers.
Discover nature
Vast and wild forests, perfect for outdoor activities.
Access to large natural spaces for hiking, canoeing, fishing and rafting.
With 14,000 people spread out over 14,000 km2, the Pontiac RCM is far from being overcrowded.
Human warmth
One of the Pontiac’s main characteristics is the harmonious coexistence of anglophone and francophone communities, encouraging cultural mixing, openmindedness and togetherness.
Pontiac residents are known for their drive to help each other and their community spirit. Newcomers are warmly welcomed and can easily fit in with the locals.
The region has many events on offer, including farmers’ markets, cultural activities, and community meetups.
Why invest here?
A market to be developed
Thanks to its natural resources, the Pontiac RCM shows a lot of potential for the growing ecotourism market.
We help you grow
Financial incentives and local authorities help support entrepreneurs, investors and economic development projects.
The right place at the right time
The Pontiac’s close proximity to Ottawa and Gatineau allows for advantageous trade opportunities.
With lower operating costs than in urban centres, the region is attractive economically, notably for SMEs.
Why visit us?
The RCM is also renowned for its seasonal outdoor events, such as its dog sled races, its RV rest stop circuit, and its ice fishing festivals in winter.
An outdoor paradise
Hiking, canoeing, hunting, rafting, bicycling and fishing take centre stage, framed by a breathtaking backdrop.
A region with a rich history
The Pontiac features many heritage buildings and historical sites to explore, as well as a lot of Indigenous cultural heritage to discover.
Year-round festivities
Whether it’s the Pontiac Artists’ Studio Tour, the Shawville Fair, or any other local festival, the RCM is packed with seasonal activities that highlight the area’s traditions and creative talent.
Travelling… differently
Follow a tourist road specifically designed to explore the area’s agricultural products and gastronomic offer.
Did you know?
For more information,
visit:
destinationpontiac.ca
The Ottawa River, which borders the Pontiac, is the longest river in Quebec. It is considered a top choice for rafting and canoeing.
The Pontiac has a rich fauna, which includes moose, white-tailed deer, beavers and rare birds, attracting many wildlife watchers.
The region is also home to the Festival country de Fort-Coulonge, which attracts visitors from all over Quebec thanks to its outdoor shows and festive atmosphere.
The Pontiac is renowned for its growing vineyards and its microbreweries that offer artisanal products showcasing local flavours.
The Pontiac RCM offers many stargazing opportunities in areas devoid of any light pollution, making it a perfect destination for amateur astronomy.
Many Indigenous archeological sites exist within the region, bearing witness to the millennia-long history of the Algonquin people and allowing visitors to learn more about their rich culture.
The Pontiac RCM contains thousands of hectares of forest, offering both residents and visitors an exceptional natural environment to be in.
