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November 2024 by Hammad Raza
Very important piece of history. Simplicity and practicality ozing from the historic structures in the era of 2nd world war.
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October 2024 by Charlotte Ques
Beautiful trail but it seems like they recently started charging for parking which is a shame.
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October 2024 by Arctic Polarbrear
Beautiful property. Parking sucks and is poorly maintained as well as poorly run but it’s okay because the property itself was very nice. There isn’t much for litter or trash but I did still see a fair amount. Bathrooms are not great and smell bad but maybe that’s just because someone is having a bad day. The trails and surrounding ground that isn’t directly next to the structures is unmaintained and a bit of a mess right now but the nature is beautiful. As for the structures themselves, they are crowded as hell and the staff sitting in the rooms watching you are slightly unwelcoming. Overall was enjoyable though.
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October 2024 by Amartya Ghosal
One of the most beautiful areas of Gatineau Park! We explored this spot for a couple of days during this fall season, and it was a wonderful experience. The landscape is stunning, with historical houses, Abbey ruins, and a scenic trail beneath Pine and Maple trees.
For history enthusiasts, this place is a perfect getaway. The well-maintained cottages are filled with artifacts and household items from a bygone era, as used by the honorable Canadian Prime Minister Mackenzie King and his family during their stays here.
On one occasion, we walked from the nearby waterfall to the Abbey. The spot has amenities like washrooms (though they were quite dirty), drinkable water, and a large parking area.
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October 2024 by KP KP
Full of nature and wildness. I did a hike for this place all the way from visitor centre. It was total 11 km trail. Loved it.
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October 2024 by K P
July 2024
An amazing place to visit and an important part of Canadian history. We were there on a weekday, and it was extremely quiet. We viewed the house/museum (free) and the Parks Canada staff were informative and helpful. We walked one of the trails to the waterfall and it was a lovely day to do so. You have to pay for parking in the parking lot. If have mobility issues or a walker or wheelchair, it may be challenging to get to the grounds.
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October 2024 by Valeriia O
The MacKenzie King Estate (Domaine Mackenzie-King), located in Gatineau Park near Ottawa, is a historic site that offers visitors a fascinating blend of Canadian history, natural beauty, and architectural charm. The estate was once the private retreat of William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada’s longest-serving Prime Minister. Spanning over 230 hectares, the estate is divided into three main sections: Kingswood, Moorside, and the Farm, each with its own unique appeal and history.
At the heart of the estate are Mackenzie King’s former residences, including Kingswood Cottage and Moorside, both of which have been carefully preserved to reflect the early 20th-century period when King spent much of his time there. These homes offer a glimpse into the personal life of the Prime Minister, who was known for his love of solitude, reflection, and connection with nature. Moorside, the largest of the buildings, also includes a tea room where visitors can enjoy refreshments while overlooking the beautiful gardens.
One of the estate’s most intriguing features is the collection of ruins King commissioned, known as the Abbey Ruins. These are not original historical structures but rather a carefully curated mix of architectural elements from various locations, arranged to evoke the romantic feel of European ruins. They provide a unique and peaceful place for visitors to explore or simply relax in the beautiful natural surroundings.
In addition to its historical significance, the MacKenzie King Estate is a popular destination for nature lovers, with several well-maintained trails offering scenic views of Gatineau Park's forests, meadows, and lakes. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or outdoor activities, the estate offers a rich and diverse experience for visitors of all ages.
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September 2024 by Nasim Bahramifarid
This place was such a treat. It really transports you to a serene, quiet place in nature but also, back in time about 100years or so. They do a really great job of combining the beauty of nature, including the well-kept gardens, with a certain historic presence. Lots of seating and green areas for a nice picnic. Dog-friendly but just keep the leash up to 3m. Many easy trails to choose from. Dedicated parking. Look forward to returning
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September 2024 by Auclert Franck
Truly a place full of history
You absolutely must visit the former prime minister's chalet.
A visit also to the garden and surrounding areas, as well as the lake.
This place is simply magnificent.
I also visited in Autumn and it is splendid.
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September 2024 by Victor N
Not really interesting place
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August 2024 by Brian Javier Molerio
Great balance of outdoor hike with timeless history. The estate at P6 includes a maintained hiking pass that leads to several other paths, including a waterfall with benches to sit. The loop around from the falls to the estate is not long, but takes you through scenic landscapes until ending up to the well kept grounds of the estate. Good place to take older relatives or planned hike with some friends. For a longer loop, you can continue onto the 5k Lauriault Trail and explore more of what the Gatineau park has to offer.
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August 2024 by Hugue Gagnon
Very beautiful place! In addition, the guide was very kind and knowledgeable!
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August 2024 by Jane Toner
Loved it! Such picturesque grounds and history.
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August 2024 by Libby Cantwell
A lovely visit to Mackenzie King Estate. You really do feel like you’ve been taken back to the early 1900s. “Simon” was very knowledgeable and provided many interesting historical facts about the Kingswood and Moorside cottages. We didn’t explore the trails as it was just too hot but the gardens are stunning. So grateful to Mackenzie King to bequeath his beloved estate to us to enjoy.
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August 2024 by Jason B
Good location to visit.
