When you live in the Glebe and want to take a break from the city’s bustle to experience something new, there are a plethora of options to choose from. From pristine waterfalls to magnificent architecture, just dream up your ideal weekend getaway and read on for some inspiration!
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Merrickville
If you love exploring quaint little towns, Merrickville is a perfect option less than an hour from Ottawa. Walk along St. Lawrence Street to find inspiration in local stores that sell clothes, handmade soaps, scented candles, and intricate glasswork. Located along the Rideau River, cross the bridge to the other side to explore a small island home to the Merrickville Ruins. Once a wool mill, the ruins now house a museum in the main building.
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Fort-Coulonge
If your wanderlust is quenched by a quiet retreat in the woods, Fourt-Coulonge is the perfect weekend destination. A 2-hour drive from Ottawa, this quaint village in Quebec is home to the famous Rideau Falls and Chutes Coulonge Park, a dense forest park with ziplines, obstacle courses, hiking trails, and a variety of wildlife. If you have more time to spare, visit the Gatineau Park, a conservation park that is ideal for hiking, biking and more.
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Perth
The picturesque town of Perth, Ontario is just an hour away from Ottawa. With rich heritage sites and seasonal decor adorning the streetsides, there are so many things to see and do in this small town. Explore Code’s Mill, a historical landmark that was once an operational mill, which now houses gift boutiques and dessert shops, or canoe through the Tay River to take in views of the town! The best part? Most of Perth has free parking, making for the perfect road trip destination.
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Calabogie
The mountains at Calabogie offer you a forget-your-troubles escape. Home to a plethora of flora and fauna, relax in the picturesque Calabogie mountains in just an hour’s drive from the city. Immerse yourself in outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding, or in the warmer months, hiking and mountain biking. Don’t miss visiting the Eagle’s Nest Lookout to take in the magnificence of the starry skies, undisturbed by light pollution.
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Montreal
This list would be incomplete without a mention of the city of bagels, smoked meat, and rich history - Montreal. Feel as though you have been whisked to a different country from the moment you step in to this vibrant city as you walk around the Old Port region and visit the farmer’s market, or make your way to the Mile End to explore the city’s bustling food scene (Did you know that Montreal has the highest number of restaurants per capita in Canada?)!