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Take The Scenic Route

The UNESCO-designated Rideau Canal stretches from Lake Ontario in Kingston to the Ottawa River following the Cataraqui and Rideau Rivers. It is 202 kilometres long, of which about 19 kilometres is man-made (locks and canal cuts), the rest are natural waters. There are 45 locks with 23 lock stations along the main route of the Rideau. The canal winds its way through historic sites, charming villages, quaint attractions and spectacular recreation areas, offering visitors a variety of world-class arts, heritage and recreation experiences.

  • 3.5 hrs from
    Toronto
  • 1 hr from
    Ottawa
  • 2.5 hrs from
    Montreal

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1000 Islands and Rideau Canal Waterways Logo

Visit Rideau Canal
Get Active Outdoors In Westport
Get Active Outdoors In Westport
One Of Ontario’s Marvels
One Of Ontario’s Marvels
A Paddlers Paradise
A Paddlers Paradise
Golf Along The Rideau
Golf Along The Rideau
Small Town Charm
Small Town Charm

Get Active Outdoors In Westport

It’s the season to break free of those winter shackles and head outside with lust for sunshine and greenery. Start the day playing a round at the Evergreen Golf Course in late spring where there’s a two for one spring special on green fees. Then head up to Foley Mountain Conservation Area to have a picnic lunch. Enjoy hiking trails and spectacular look outs over the water and the Village of Westport. See beaver hard at work in the pond or even dip your toes in Upper Rideau Lake at the natural swimming area. The day is yours!

One Of Ontario’s Marvels

One of the highlights along the Rideau Canal is the Lockstations. These are managed by Parks Canada and are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Historic Site of Canada. These fascinating locks are a series of advanced engineered structures that were designed to create a slack water system for naval trade and military supply. The Rideau is the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America.

It is a delight to stretch your legs and explore each station as you boat through. Visit the on-site exhibits, hike the self-guided trails and have a conversation with Parks Canada staff about the unique stories of each lockstation. Bring your camera while you explore the locks to capture this unforgettable experience while you connect with our nation’s history. Lockstations also offer great picnic opportunities.

A Paddlers Paradise

To kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts, the Rideau Heritage Route is a “paddler’s paradise,” due to its calm, clear waters and natural sights. Kayakers and canoers of all ages and skill levels can get out on the water and paddle the 202 km stretch from Kingston to Ottawa. Access is very easy at any of over 30 launch ramps and most lockstations. Those traveling the length of the canal have the option of “locking through” the locks or portaging past them. Those camping will find it convenient at the many campgrounds or at the lockstations. Those wishing to enjoy a more decadent trip may wish to stay in B&Bs along the route. With over 1,091 km (675 miles) of shoreline on the Rideau, there’s so much to explore.

Golf Along The Rideau

Combine golf and history on the Rideau. Renting a cottage or houseboat along the 200 km recognized Rideau Canal system lets you try a different golf course every day of your golf getaway. Golf retreats give aficionados the excuse they need to mix sun and sand traps.

Most courses along the corridor offer power carts and fully equipped clubhouses offering a wide variety of services such as pro-shops, beverage cart service, lessons and full-service dining. Finding a course along here is a click away.

Small Town Charm

Merrickville is renowned for its boutiques, which are filled with one-of-a-kind items made by local artisans. Their unique talents are on display at studios where craftsmen demonstrate their trade as well as sell their wares. You can buy the creations made before your eyes.  The village streets are lined with shops carrying such things as locally-made products, art of all kinds, antiques, collector’s items, speciality foods, and more.

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Locals Recommend: 22 Things To Do, Eat, And See In The Rideau

"These have been here the whole time?!" You may think you know the Rideau like the back of your hand but the reality can be very different. We connected with some locals to share the hidden parts of this area front and center. Some are well-known, some are a little off the beaten track, but ALL are local favourites! With on-going developments regarding the global pandemic, please visit each location’s website, or connect with their staff via email and telephone, for updates on COVID-19 ...

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Bucket List: 17 Restaurants Along The Rideau You Need To Try

Summer is made for dining out. As the summer sun reflects off the water in Rideau Canal region, summer vibes flow easy over conversation, sun-kissed skin, drinks and platters shared with friends and loved ones. We rounded up 14 intriguing and delicious restaurants along the Rideau to guide your taste buds. 1. Yellow Canoe Find food that soothes the body and soul here and think local at this licensed café and bakery. Soups, desserts and sandwiches are all made from scratch in the teeny ki...

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How To Make The Most Of Winter In Westport

Pack up the car, turn up the heat, and put your toasty sweaters on, because we’ve put together an itinerary for Westport! It’s no secret that South Eastern Ontario is home to some prime destinations in the province. We have towns and villages that are not only charming but in the winter they look as though they came straight out of a fairytale. Westport is a village of 600 people that is notorious for being bumping in the summer! However, this destination is a year-round spot for whe...

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