A Sweet Escape

On a sunny day, driving north along Route 105 from Wakefield into the expansive rural landscapes of Quebec, one can't help but notice the serene beauty that surrounds. To the right, the Gatineau River meanders peacefully, while to the left, McGoey's Market & Bakery signals a stop worth making for fresh fruits, vegetables and homemade pies. Nestled amidst these rolling farmlands, a tiny green building captures the eye, promising a delightful pause: La Cigale ice cream hut.

In 2021, Chris Kaarsberg and her husband George Claydon, owners of the beloved La Cigale ice cream shop in Chelsea, Que., decided to expand their business to the small farming community of Farrellton. The idea came about because of a family tradition. “My in-laws own a cottage on Blue Sea Lake,” Kaarsberg explains. "Stopping at the farm became part of our journey, and I thought it would be great to create something that other families could incorporate into their trips to the cottage.”

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the McGoey Farm, La Cigale’s ice cream hut complements the farmstand’s array of fresh produce. Kaarsberg describes it as a “companion business” that enhances the sense of community and collaboration. The partnership began with a fortunate cold call. “I had forgotten that the McGoeys had actually reached out to us a few years ago about carrying our ice cream,” Kaarsberg recalls, “but we didn’t have a wholesaling permit at the time.”

Unlike the Chelsea location, which offers a full menu of 24 flavours, the Farrellton location offers a curated selection of 12 due to space constraints. Each flavour, however, maintains the hallmark of La Cigale’s homemade quality. “Every batch is handmade, and we partner with local businesses like the Outaouais Dairy and make everything, including our waffle cones, by hand,” Kaarsberg says. “Working with local partners who share our commitment to quality is essential.”

The ice cream hut is painted in La Cigale’s signature lime green with pops of hot pink on menu boards and in the flower boxes, making it stand out against the rustic barn wood of the farm’s outbuildings. Larger-than-life ice cream and grasshoppershaped road signs, all pointing left, add to its charm and direct travellers to where they can order their favourite flavours. “I wanted something lively and fun, yet relaxing,” Kaarsberg notes. “This colour spoke to me — it’s exciting and peaceful at the same time.”

Quickly becoming a cherished stop for many families, the Farrellton location is embedding itself in travel traditions. “People are starting to realize we're here, and it's becoming part of their routine,” Kaarsberg shares. “It takes time for people to develop new habits and include us in their journey, but we’re getting there.”

Operating an ice cream hut in a rural area does have its unique challenges, particularly with staffing. “Finding staff is tricky because it’s seasonal work and parents usually have to drive their kids,” Kaarsberg admits. Nevertheless, the staff at the ice cream hut have embraced the community spirit. “I love seeing the staff connect with each other and with our customers. They recognize regulars and know their favourite flavours.”

One of Kaarsberg’s fondest memories involves the camaraderie among her staff. “Seeing them joke around and have fun while working hard is so rewarding,” she says. “It’s not just about serving ice cream; it’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere.”

Looking ahead, Kaarsberg remains cautious about further expansions. “Last year, I would have said yes to another location, but this year, I’m not so sure yet,” she says. “Running multiple locations is a stretch, and I want to ensure we can maintain the quality and experience that defines La Cigale.”

For now, the Farrellton location continues to grow and be an essential part of many families' journeys to the cottage from May through the long weekend in September. “It’s about creating those simple, memorable moments,” Kaarsberg says. “Whether it’s enjoying a scoop of ginger snap and chai or stopping for a quick treat on the way, it’s all about making those little traditions that stay with you.”

La Cigale
1451 Quebec Rte. 105, Farrellton, Que.
14 Chem. Scott, Chelsea, Que.
lacigaleicecream.com | @lacigale.chelsea