Ethan BrownOttawa Valley is Eastern Ontario’s best-kept secret. This isn’t a glossy, overdone travel brochure spot, but it’s a natural beauty nestled between sleepy small towns and endless stretches of pristine nature.
Picture hiking trails that wind through maple forests, crystal-clear rivers perfect for paddling, and quiet corners where you can simply be. Ottawa Valley is your spot if you’re the type who craves something beyond the beaten path,
Plus, local bakeries, coffee shops, and stories around campfires give this community its charm. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring villages, or simply soaking up the stillness, Ottawa Valley is THE ultimate Ontario nature getaway.
- Where is Ottawa Valley?
- How to Get to Ottawa Valley
- Best Time to Go to Ottawa Valley
- What to Do and See in Ottawa Valley
- Explore Bonnechere Caves’ hidden wonders
- Paddle along the Ottawa River for endless tranquillity
- Hike the Ottawa Valley Trail and appreciate its scenic beauty
- Picnic with the family at Lake Dore
- Go camping and connect with nature
- Feel the rush of snowboarding on local snowy slopes
- Cast a line and enjoy fishing
- Ride ATVs through thrilling trails and forest paths
- Relax at the shore of Petawawa Point Beach
- Where to Eat and Drink in and near Ottawa Valley
- Where to Stay near Ottawa Valley
- FAQs about Ottawa Valley
Where is Ottawa Valley?
The Ottawa Valley is located in Eastern Ontario, just west of Ottawa, the nation’s capital. It stretches along the Ottawa River, spanning from Arnprior to Deep River, and honestly, it’s the kind of place where nature steals the show.
You’ll find it bordered by Renfrew County to the west and Ontario’s famous Algonquin Park just a stone’s throw away to the north. It’s near enough to Ottawa to be convenient but far enough away to feel completely off the radar.
How to Get to Ottawa Valley
Closest subway stop: If you prefer public transportation, Ontario Northland and other regional buses make regular trips to spots like Renfrew, Pembroke, and Arnprior.
You can catch one from Ottawa’s downtown, and they’ll get you right in the heart of the Valley. If you’ve got a car, just hop onto Highway 417 heading west.
In about an hour or so, depending on your destination within the Valley, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and the Ottawa River guiding your way.
Best Time to Go to Ottawa Valley
If you love soaking up summer vibes, aim for late spring through early fall—that’s when the Ottawa Valley truly comes alive with festivals and outdoor fun. One event not to miss is the Water & Dirt Festival, held in early summer.
It’s all about embracing adventure, with everything from paddleboarding to mountain biking. For something a bit of a cultural kick, there’s the Almonte Celtfest in July—a lively family-friendly celebration of Celtic music and heritage, where everyone can join in the fun!
And if music is your thing, September brings the Ottawa Valley Stomp Music Festival, where local beer flows and country tunes set the tone. Overall, summer’s packed with good times and, no matter when you go, there’s always something to look forward to.
What to Do and See in Ottawa Valley
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Website: http://www.bonnecherecaves.com/
Address: 1247 Fourth Chute Rd, Eganville
Contact details: +1 613 628 2283
Operating hours:
- May Long Weekend to June 30th (daily) – 10 AM to 4 PM
- July and August (daily) – 10 AM and 4 PM
- After Labour Day weekends to Thanksgiving – 10 AM to 4 PM
- Weekday Tours in September – 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM
Cost:
- Adults – $25
- Seniors (ages 65 and above) – $22
- Ages 13 to 17 – $17
- Ages 4 to 12 – $15
- Ages 4 and under – Free
Bonnechere Caves is where you’ll be walking through limestone passageways adorned with stalactites and fossils, so a guided tour here is a step back in time. They’ll tell you all about the cave’s history, from their ancient origins to how they were discovered.
You’ll even get to learn geology basics in a way that sticks. Expect some fun surprises while you’re here, like little bats hanging around certain areas (no worries—they’re quiet and generally harmless).
Just make sure to pack comfy shoes with a good grip because it’s a bit damp in there. Furthermore, the cave is well set up for accessibility, and there’s a picnic area right by the entrance, which is great if you plan to make a day out of it.
Paddle along the Ottawa River for endless tranquillity
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Okay, when it comes to paddling, the Ottawa River is where it’s at—it’s got everything. For adrenaline junkies, whitewater rafting is the star here, and you’ll find several outfitters who’ll walk you through everything from safety gear to tackling those rapids.
If you’re looking for something mellow, canoeing or kayaking is a great option. And if you like the idea of a workout with epic views, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is another fun way to spend an afternoon.
The Madawaska River, which branches off from the Ottawa River, is widely considered one of the best sections for water activities. River tubing is also popular—it’s easy, fun, and refreshing on a hot day.
Hike the Ottawa Valley Trail and appreciate its scenic beauty
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If you’re up for stretching your legs while soaking up everything the Ottawa Valley has to offer, the Ottawa Valley Rail Trail will deliver. This trail is huge—it spans 296 kilometres, so trust me, there’s no shortage of exploration here.
It’s a multi-use trail, so you’ll likely share the path with hikers, cyclists, and maybe even some horseback riders. It offers stunning views, from Smiths Falls to just shy of Mattawa.
Some sections are nature-rich, with amazing wildlife sightings, while others pass through charming rural towns. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love seeing remnants of old train stations and rail infrastructure along the way.
Picnic with the family at Lake Dore
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If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Lake Dore is a solid choice. This lake is all about keeping things simple, making it ideal for activities like swimming, paddleboarding, or fishing.
The quieter setting attracts families, couples, and individuals who just want to unplug for a while and recharge. While the lake itself is the star of the show, keep an eye out for chances to explore the surrounding area.
There are walking trails nearby where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the views. For an extra dose of tranquillity, pack up some snacks or a picnic dinner—you can multitask by eating great food while enjoying a front-row seat to nature’s show.
Go camping and connect with nature
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When camping in the Ottawa Valley, you’ve got plenty of options, depending on your vibe.
If you love history and exploring along with your camping adventure, Murphy’s Point Provincial Park near Perth is the spot. Here, you can wander into restored ruins like the Silver Queen Mine and learn about the area’s heritage.
Fitzroy Provincial Park, on the other hand, is great for families—the park even offers campsites close to the river, giving you a peaceful backdrop.
For those craving lakeside views as part of the camping experience, check out Silver Lake Provincial Park near Pembroke. Swimming and canoeing are big here, so you can get active or just float along and enjoy the solitude.
Feel the rush of snowboarding on local snowy slopes
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If you’re craving an adrenaline rush during the colder months, snowboarding in Ottawa Valley should be on your radar. Calabogie Peaks Resort is a favourite among visitors for its variety of slopes, with Ontario’s tallest ski mountain to back it up.
They offer lessons and rentals too, so no need to stress if you’re new to snowboarding or coming without your gear. Camp Fortune, located closer to the Gatineau Park area, is another standout.
It’s accessible and offers well-groomed trails and diverse runs, so whether you’re for leisurely snowboard rides or trying out jumps, you’ve got options. Mount Pakenham, meanwhile, is more family-friendly, with gentler slopes and a lot of warm-up areas.
Cast a line and enjoy fishing
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If you’re in the Ottawa Valley and love fishing, you’re in for a real treat. The region is famous for its fantastic fishing spots, with an abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams just waiting for you.
In the area, you’ll find a variety of fish like walleye, northern pike, muskies, bass, and catfish. The local spots are pretty spread out, so it’s worth checking ahead to see where the best catches are happening. Don’t forget your fishing license!
Ride ATVs through thrilling trails and forest paths
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Riding ATVs through the Ottawa Valley’s extensive network of trails is an absolute blast. Seriously, there aren’t many places that offer such diverse trails that wind through forests, over hills, and alongside rivers.
Before you hit the trails, make sure that you have all the needed gear—a helmet, gloves, sturdy boots, and some comfortable riding clothes. Most trails are well-marked, but reliable maps or GPS can make your adventure smoother.
If you’re new to ATV riding or don’t own one, don’t worry. You can easily find rental services and guided tours, which are excellent ways to get familiar with the tracks.
Relax at the shore of Petawawa Point Beach
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Petawawa Point Beach is such a lovely spot to unwind and just breathe in the fresh air. The beach offers a nice stretch of sand where you can lie out and enjoy the sun, plus the waters are great for a refreshing dip.
It’s a family-friendly place with clean facilities, picnic areas, and even spots for BBQ—ideal for a relaxed day out. Also, canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming are all popular here.
The beach isn’t usually overcrowded, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a calmer, more serene environment. And, if you’re into birdwatching, bring your binoculars because you can spot some pretty interesting species around.
Where to Eat and Drink in and near Ottawa Valley
Bistro 54
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Address: 54 Foster St, Perth
Phone: +1 613 267 5454
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 9 PM
Good to know: Perfect for date nights or intimate celebrations
Bistro 54 brings that warm, comforting ‘Mama Cucina’ Italian cooking straight to Perth. Known for dishing up handmade pasta that’s second to none, this spot has become a go-to for anyone craving authentic Italian flavours.
If you’re all about the classics, they’ve got pollo parmigiana, fettuccine carbonara, and Pizza con Funghi ready to hit the spot. Plus, Bistro 54 makes sure no one feels left out with their vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.
Of course, their cocktail lineup deserves just as much love as their food, with creations like the Bloody Caesar, Spritz Italiano, or the fan-favourite B54 Quencher.
Billings & Company
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Address: 43 Gore St E, Perth
Phone: +1 613 267 7994
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Friday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 3 PM
Good to know: Great for families and groups
Billings & Company has this great thing going on—it’s a restaurant, cafe, and a bottle shop all rolled into one neat little package. Their menu covers delicious appetisers like fried Brussels sprouts and halloumi skewers.
There are also heavier options like steak frites, falafel bowls, and pappardelle pasta with short rib. Plus, if you’re into raw dishes, their raw bar serves up oysters, beef tartare, and tuna crudo.
For sandwiches and pizza lovers, you’re in excellent hands. Some crowd favourites include the chicken club focaccia and pulled duck pizza—the two dishes that kept us coming back!
Foundry Coffee Bar
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Address: 122 Bridge St, Carleton Place
Phone: +1 613 703 8964
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Good to know: Great for casual meetups, work sessions
Foundry Coffee Bar keeps it simple but satisfying and offers a space for rent geared toward working professionals. Now, their coffee lineup includes everything you need—espresso, flat whites, cappuccinos, hot chocolates—you name it.
Pair your drink with bites like mushroom toast or avocado toast, or go for one of their more filling options, such as the classic breakfast wrap or the Good Morning Sunshine (breakfast plate). If you’re looking for plant-based options, they’ve got some too!
This includes the Plant-Powered dish (marinated baked tofu) and the vegan breakfast wrap. Oh, and don’t sleep on their pastries—everyone seems to rave about the blueberry almond muffin, so you might want to snag one before they run out.
Riverwood Pizza Company
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Address: 61 Gore St E, Perth
Phone: +1 613 201 2301
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday – 3 PM to 9 PM
Good to know: Great for families and groups
As the name hints, Riverwood Pizza Company is all about pizza, and they do it really well. They’ve got you covered with classics like Margherita, four-cheese pizza, and marinara pizza.
They also have creative options like the Summertime Pizza, The Ugly One (loaded with Italian prosciutto), and the hot and spicy pizza, which are always catching people’s attention(of course, that includes us!).
Oh, and gluten-free folks—they’ll make your pizza gluten-free on request, so no stress there. Furthermore, cocktails like the Wild Blueberry Mojito and Black Salt Margarita are always a hit, but they don’t stop there since you’ve got wine and beer options too!
Redneck Bistro
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Address: 12609 511, Calabogie
Phone: +1 613 752 1888
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 8 PM
Good to know: Great for families or groups
Redneck Bistro does casual dining perfectly, especially if you’re into live music and good beers. We love this spot for its lively shareables lineup, including tacos, Asian nachos, and chicken wings, but that’s just the start.
The menus had some must-tries like the Roadkill Burger and Redneck Burger. If you’re feeling fancy, the 10oz New York striploin, almond crusted salmon, and Superfood Power Bowl deliver big flavours that feel like a step up from average pub fare.
Now, let’s talk about poutine for a second. They’ve got buffalo chicken poutine and the gluten-free Three Little Pigs poutine (with bacon, sausage, and pulled pork)—both crowd favourites.
Where to Stay near Ottawa Valley
Best Western Pembroke Inn & Conference Centre
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Address: 1 International Dr, Pembroke
Phone: +1 613 735 0131
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Best Western Pembroke Inn & Conference Centre is one of those reliable options you can’t go wrong with. The rooms here are clean, spacious, and fitted with all the conveniences like Wi-Fi, comfy beds, mini-fridges, and a workspace.
There’s an indoor heated pool and a fitness centre, as well as an on-site restaurant that serves hearty meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you’re planning a meeting or event, this place has meeting rooms equipped with everything you’d need to host.
Location-wise, it’s close to Highway 17, so you’ve got easy access to some outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or just strolling.
Sands on Golden Lake
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Address: 13163 ON-60, Golden Lake
Phone: +1 613 625 2525
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
If your getaway vibe leans toward relaxing by the water, Sands on Golden Lake is a fantastic choice. It’s nestled right along the waterfront, so it’s ideal if you want easy access to scenic lake views and water activities.
The rooms here are simple yet comfortable, with options ranging from standard accommodations to waterfront suites with private balconies. Plus, they have cosy cottages on-site, which is great for families or groups wanting extra space.
Guests love having direct access to the sandy beach, swimming areas, kayaking rentals, and fishing spots. They’ve also got a spa for anyone looking to unwind, offering massages, facials, and more!
Bonnechere Lodge Resort
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Address: 391 Bonnechere Lodge Rd, Killaloe
Phone: +1 613 625 2659
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 10 AM
Bonnechere Lodge Resort in Killaloe has that “classic getaway” feeling to it, minus any fuss or frills. It’s right on Round Lake, so this place naturally lends itself to plenty of outdoor fun—great for families, couples, or groups of friends.
They’ve got cottages here, and they’re fully furnished with kitchens and outdoor barbecues (because who doesn’t love grilling while on the lake?). There are hiking trails nearby as well if you want to stretch your legs and explore the area.
Fishing is a big deal here—it’s one of the spots where you can grab a boat, head out, and spend hours on the water. Speaking of boats, they have rentals available!
Pine Lodge
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Address: 6 Chem. de Pine Lodge, Bristol
Phone: +1 819 647 2805
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Pine Lodge out in Bristol is like stepping into a little pocket of all-season fun. It’s a family-friendly resort that sits snugly along the shores of the Ottawa River—it’s not just accommodation; it’s a whole experience.
They’ve got cosy cabins for anyone looking for a bit more privacy, along with rooms that cater to all your basic needs. What’s cool about this place is how many activities it offers: canoeing, kayaking, and even golfing!
Their setup also includes tennis courts, volleyball, and trails for hiking or biking. Plus, if you’re a winter traveller, they have gear for cross-country skiing, making Pine Lodge a spot that adapts to the season you’re visiting.
