The 9 Best Weekend Getaways from Ottawa for Scenic Retreats and Quiet Adventures
Ah, weekends! Those glorious two days always feel like a mini escape from the everyday grind.
Anytime I have a bit of free time, I’m all about hopping in the car and heading off to wherever the road takes me (or, let’s be real, wherever Google Maps suggests).
One time, I found myself in this tiny town with a park that was supposed to be “the best hidden gem around.” Naturally, I had to check it out, and… well, let’s just say I’ve been back more times than I care to admit.
What I’ve learned from all my spontaneous (and sometimes very random) road trips is that there’s always something new and unexpected waiting to surprise you.
And honestly, I don’t want to keep these gems to myself. Let’s dive into some of the best weekend getaways from Ottawa.
1. Calabogie Peaks
— Media credit: calabogiepeaks
Website: https://www.calabogie.com/
Location: 30 Barrett Chute Road, Calabogie
Contact Details: (613) 752-2720
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Located 100 km (that’s roughly a 1 hr and 15 mins drive) from downtown Ottawa, Calabogie Peaks is like the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure book, but with more snow and fewer plot twists.
Nestled along the shores of Calabogie Lake, it’s a nature lover’s dream, blending outdoor thrills and cozy comforts for every type of traveler.
Beyond the stunning views, Calabogie Peaks delivers all the adventures you could ask for—paddle sports, hiking, boat docking, and skiing.
And after all these activities, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Luckily, the dining options at Calabogie Peaks like the Canthooks Restaurant, Black Donald’s Pub, and Mountain Cat Cafe will keep you satisfied.
Calories totally don’t count when you’re surrounded by this much nature. It’s practically a rule.
Pro tip:
Book the “Stay & Ski” package for a discounted rate on both your room and lift tickets. It’s the easiest way to hit the slopes and relax without breaking the bank.
2. Merrickville
— Media credit: merrickville.ontario.chamber
Website: https://www.merrickville-wolford.ca/
Location: 317 Brock Street West, Merrickville
Contact Details: (613) 269-4791
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Closed daily from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Just an hour from Ottawa, Merrickville is the perfect spot when you’re craving a break from city chaos. Fun fact: it’s actually one of Ontario’s most picturesque villages—like, straight out of a postcard.
It’s ideal for families looking for a fun escape. With parks, walking trails, and kid-friendly activities, there’s no shortage of things to keep the kiddos busy.
And if you’re visiting with friends, there are art galleries, antique stores, and of course, the Rideau Canal itself. You can even rent a kayak or paddleboard if you’re feeling adventurous (or just want to snap some pics for Instagram).
To end the day, Merrickville offers great places to stay, like the Baldachin Inn for something affordable or the Merrickville Guest Suites for a bit more luxury.
Pro tip:
The parks by the canal are great for relaxing, and enjoying a picnic with a view is a must. Grab some fresh goodies from local bakeries and enjoy.
3. Renfrew
— Media credit: sarahfreemark
Website: https://www.renfrew.ca/
Location: 127 Raglan Street, South Renfrew
Contact Details: (613) 432-4848
Renfrew is an outdoor lover’s dream, with the Millennium Trail and Bonnechere River offering scenic spots for hiking and kayaking. The parks are also perfect for anyone needing a break from city life (who doesn’t need that?).
If you’re more into chill vibes, you can explore the town’s charming streets or kick back at Ma-te-Way Park. There’s skateboarding, cycling, or just soaking up the countryside.
When it comes to food, Renfrew serves up local flavors with a side of Canadian cuisine. Take Sandy’s Deli, for example, which is a local favorite for fresh, made-to-order sandwiches, subs, and wraps.
Pro tip:
If you’re visiting in winter and heading to Renfrew on a weekend with the kids, don’t miss FrewFest which turns the town into a snowy wonderland. Plus, it’s totally free!
4. Carleton Place
— Media credit: carleton_place
Website: https://carletonplace.ca/
Location: 175 Bridge Street, Carleton Place
Contact Details: (613) 257-6200
Business Hours:
- Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Originally established in the early 19th century, Carleton Place began as a mill town, taking advantage of its location along the Mississippi River (not to be confused with the one in the U.S.).
Today, walking through its downtown, you’ll find Victorian-era buildings and landmarks that tell the story of its industrial past.
History lovers can explore local museums like the Carleton Place and Beckwith Heritage Museum, which offer a glimpse into the town’s early days.
Aside from that, foodies will love Carleton Place’s thriving food scene packed with cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. Be sure to try the dishes at The Good Food Company, a cozy cafe famous for its organic, farm-to-table menu.
Pro tip:
Visit Carleton Place in the fall. The changing colors along the Mississippi River are best for breathtaking views.
5. Fort-Coulonge
— Media credit: manjushankar
Website: https://fortcoulonge.qc.ca/en/
Location: 134 Rue Principale, Fort-Coulonge, Québec
Contact Details: (819) 683-2259
Fort-Coulonge is like that adventurous friend who always knows the best spots for a thrill—rustic charm meets natural beauty in Quebec’s hidden gem. With postcard-worthy views, it’s the perfect escape from the daily grind.
This small village offers canoeing, climbing, and hiking. You can try the Les Chemins d’eau Route, which is a historical trail that runs from Gatineau to Pontiac, with 273 km of stunningly beautiful roads.
Aside from that, there’s the PPJ Trail that’s fantastic for families with kids. Stretching 92 km, this off-road trail is exclusively for cyclists and hikers so no need to worry about cars zooming past.
And after all that adventure, you absolutely have to indulge in some local cuisine—poutine is a must-try. This Quebec classic features crispy fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy.
Pro tip:
The weather can change quickly, so check the forecast before you head out. Dress in layers and bring a light jacket or poncho just in case the skies decide to open up.
6. Mont-Tremblant
— Media credit: monttremblant
Website: https://www.tremblant.ca/
Location: 1000 ch. des Voyageurs, Mont-Tremblant, Québec
Contact Details: (819) 681-3000
Business Hours: Open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Mont-Tremblant is like a magical escape hatch for anyone looking to swap the urban hustle of Ottawa for a big ol’ slice of nature. Located just approximately 81 miles away, it’s roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.
The place dazzles with vibrant autumn colors and stunning vistas. The panoramic views from the top of the mountain are particularly jaw-dropping.
During winter, those golden autumn tones are swapped out for a snow-drenched wonderland, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding experiences in North Eastern America.
And when summer rolls around, the mountain trails transform into a playground for hikers and mountain bikers.
Don’t worry about finding a place to rest your head—Mont-Tremblant has lodging options galore. And here’s a sweet deal: kids 17 and under stay free when accompanied by an adult.
Pro tip:
Visiting Mont-Tremblant in the summer? Don’t skip the Panoramic Gondola ride. It’s a scenic journey with bird’s-eye views of lush forests and rolling hills as you glide to the summit.
7. Wakefield
— Media credit: destinationwakefield
Website: https://www.destinationwakefield.com/
Location: Wakefield, La Pêche, Quebec
Contact Details: [email protected]
Wakefield is your cozy hideaway, just a breezy 25-30 minutes from Ottawa—perfect for those spontaneous “I need to escape the city” moments.
For the outdoor adventurer, it’s a year-round paradise. In winter, you can ski or snowshoe over 200 km of Gatineau Park trails, or try your hand at dogsledding or horseback riding nearby.
Come warmer days, hike or bike those same trails, or rent a paddleboard and float along the Gatineau River like a pro.
Beyond nature, the arts scene is lively here, too. Visual artists thrive and the famed Black Sheep Inn, a music venue, has been the stage for international talent.
And for the history buffs (or just lovers of good spa days), you can visit the restored Wakefield Mill. It’s a slice of history now turned into a posh inn with a spa and top-notch dining.
Pro tip:
For the Wakefield Mill spa, book the first available slot when they open in the morning. You’ll beat the rush and get that zen-like atmosphere before everyone else rolls in.
8. Brookstreet Hotel
— Media credit: brookstreetott
Website: https://www.brookstreethotel.com/
Location: 525 Legget Drive
Contact Details: 1-888-826-2220
Business Hours: Open 24 hours daily
If you’re looking for a weekend staycation that feels like a mini escape without the hassle of airports or long drives, Brookstreet Hotel is just a 25-minute drive from the capital.
At their spa, a popular choice is the 60-minute massage for $120, perfect for relieving tension and stress. They also offer facials, spa pedicures, and natural body scrubs, providing everything you need to recharge.
For something a bit more active, The Marshes Golf Club is perfect if you want to flaunt your swing. This world-class, 18-hole course offers a fun yet challenging round for golfers of all skill levels.
And to cap it all off, you can savor a fresh take on fine dining at Perspectives, Brookstreet’s award-winning restaurant. Outside, the seasonal patio provides a nature-filled setting for memorable dining.
Pro tip:
Take advantage of complimentary parking in Brookstreet’s heated garage for up to three hours. Perfect for a quick spa visit, golf round, or dining at Perspectives—no parking fees to worry about!
9. Gananoque
— Media credit: travel1000islands
Website: https://www.gananoque.ca/
Location: 30 King Street, East Gananoque
Contact Details: (613) 382-2149
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Gananoque is the weekend getaway you didn’t know you needed. Situated in the heart of the Thousand Islands, it’s basically nature’s buffet. You’ve got water, islands, and adventures all around.
The Thousand Islands cruise lets you peek at dreamy islands, like getting a VIP tour of a millionaire’s backyard. Options start at $33 for a quick 1-hour spin.
The Gananoque Trails offer something for every explorer, with the Lions Loop, Rogers Loop, and Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, making it easy to find the perfect path for your adventure.
For a bit of culture, the Thousand Islands Playhouse adds some theatrical flair. From laugh-out-loud comedies to deep dramas, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your weekend before heading back to reality.
Pro tip:
If you’re doing a Thousand Islands cruise, bring binoculars! You’ll spot hidden gems and wildlife that others might miss.