Wakefield Mill in Winter: A Boutique Escape Worth Returning To
For many, January is a cold blistery month where you just want to stay put inside where it is warm. However, what if there was a magical place where you could still be cozy and warm, yet have a unique winter experience to fill your soul with adventure?
We are like a snowflake, all different in our own beautiful way… Unknown.
My husband and I planned a 2-night get-a-way to Wakefield Quebec at the Moulin Wakefield Mill. This was our second time visiting this great place and we were excited to use our time there to rest, relax, plan, and explore. This fabulous boutique Inn will exceed any expectation you may have for a winter escape in the middle of January.
Side note: For a more detailed look at this exceptional establishment, you can read my first review HERE.
Why We Chose the Moulin Wakefield Mill?
Simply put.. the people and team at this great establishment go above and beyond to ensure your stay is excellent. From the moment you call to book, you are greeted with such warmth and ease, to your arrival and throughout your stay, you are treated like family – not just a customer or patron.
Arrival:
We were early for our arrival and immediately, the team (specifically Gabriella) placed our baggage in a secure room until needed. While we waited, we were given complimentary tickets to enjoy a beverage of our choice fireside in their lounge area. We sat in comfort sipping a savory glass of wine and played scrabble in front of a roaring fire.
Our room – a Cozy Queen – was ready in no time and we were pleasantly surprised by the quaintness of our selection. Facing the serene rapids of MacLaren Falls and a glorious Victorian House (which is also part of the Mill and now used for intimate conferences or events) our room presented the coziness and peace we were searching for.
Our intent for our stay was not only for relaxation, but for vision. We chose this wondrous place because of its serene setting – next to Gatineau Park, it’s outstanding Holtz spa and for its peaceful outdoor hot tub and sauna offered within the package.
Sidenote: The Wakefield Mill has plenty of accommodation options including varying options within the Mill itself. Our choice option for this get a way did have a set of stairs to the 4th floor which was not an issue for us, but may for elderly or those less ambulatory. You can also choose from their Eco River Lodge suites – in a separate building facing Le Peche River and the natural beauty of Gatineau Park, or the Miller’s House also facing Le Peche River and Gatineau Park – consisting of 2 room options within their restored historical house and also housing a separate outdoor hot tub and quaint pool. So many options to choose from and in my opinion – not a wrong choice to be made.
So Much To Do and See:
The outdoor spa area is picture perfect nestled next to the crystal waters of the Le Peche River and MacLaren Falls. The sounds of the falls, the crispness of the snow lined walkways, along with soft falling snowflakes made this experience a highlight for us both. An invigorating afternoon in the cold January temperatures, yet immersed in the heat of the hot tub and sauna was perfection to begin our relaxation vision retreat.
There are also plenty of hiking, walking, cycling, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing trails and options in and around the Mill. Their team can provide you with a detailed map of the nearby choices and your only decision will be in deciding which gorgeous scenery to follow? We had brought our snowshoes (although, if you forgot them or wish to try it out – simply ask at the front desk and they have complimentary equipment for your pleasure), and took one of their trails heading to the Wakefield Community Centre to try out. We were in awe with how gorgeous this trail was and how challenging it was with its hills and valleys to climb and descend. All in all, a fantastic afternoon working up an appetite for our upcoming dinner reservations at the Heron Wine Bar.
Are You More Of An ‘Inside’ Adventurer?
If so, within the walls of the Mill are plenty of options to enhance your stay. The well renowned Holtz Spa is right on site offering a wide range of relaxation options. From massages, manicures or pedicures, body treatments, facials or a combined packages available for women, men as well as couples, you will certainly find the option your soul is longing for.
Their lounge area within the Heron Wine Bar offers comfy chairs to relax in by their roaring fire, a pool table and chess board table to tap into your competitive side as well as plenty of board game options to grab and go for some playful kid-like fun. Their team within the lounge will take care of all your relaxing needs with a variety of beverage, snack or meal options to choose from.
Situated on the walls all throughout the Mill on their main floor as well as a separate gallery room, are stunning art pieces crafted by local artists. These pieces are available for purchase and do change often for those who are regular patrons of the Mill.
Do You Fancy An Intimate Work Conference Or Event To Host?
The Mill offers a selection of options (for patrons up to 40 guests) including one day facilities as well as packages including a meeting room, food and beverages as well as a lodging stay. Their unique historical settings as well as serene waterfall locations provide the setting you have been envisioning right from the start.
Sidenote: And since we were there for some 2026 vision, the complete setting of this outstanding historical Mill completely set the tone for our dreams to come.
Are You A Foodie?
Then, you are in luck! We had the pleasure of eating a scrumptious dinner at the Heron Wine Bar and our waiter Mason took special care of us. We chose the Butcher’s Block which consisted of a striploin steak, pureed potatoes and delicious seared vegetables. For dessert, we could not decide, so we chose both options – their crème brulee and the poached pear in fortified wine. Both outstanding! The entire meal was fine dining from start to finish (and this was not situated in their fine dining option – La Muse. We have not had the opportunity to experience this wonder yet for dinner, but maybe on a future stay).
Our 2-night stay included a breakfast option in La Muse. Situated in their Atrium overlooking MacLaren Falls, it was picture perfect. Our server Nancy took care of us on both mornings with impeccable attention to detail. From offering us some dairy free alternatives, so some options on the side – our breakfast was exquisite!
All in all, if you are looking for a serene staycation, an couples relaxing or vision get-a-way, a special event, or an intimate retreat and is only 30 minutes from Ottawa – you will certainly find it here at the Moulin Wakefield Mill. Their team from the moment you place that call will take you in their hands and provide you with the service and comfort you need to make your stay the most pleasurable one you have ever had.
We had such a fantastic time, that we are now planning a quarterly retreat to take in each season at this fantastic historical Mill. So, stay tuned for Springtime in Wakefield. I’m sure a whole new perspective will open my eyes.
If you’d like to see a visual on this fabulous Mill – click below to view.
