This Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park Guide is a must-read for your next nature getaway
After a tiring night out with my friends, we all woke up hungover and vowed to never get wasted again. Whilst sipping our coffees, one of us came up with an idea ー why not try a nature adventure?
We all agreed that this was a step in the right direction (away from drunken nights and hungover mornings)!
Shortly after, we planned our next escapade and found ourselves heading for Humatics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park.
I’m now writing this guide to share this hidden gem that nature lovers and spiritual enthusiasts will surely appreciate!
Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park Overview
The Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park is a project by a non-profit organization named Humanics Institute. It is located within a stunning nine-acre wooded ravine. It features natural trails and scenic bridges over a majestic creek, the perfect wooded wonderland!
But the star of the show is its sculptures, which embody different religions and the values that the park stands for.
Among those you’ll see are the Garden of Eden sculpture, which symbolizes Christianity, and Interdependence, which embodies the value of connectedness.
Should you decide to embark on this adventure, the values of oneness, equality, and interconnectedness are going to be evident throughout your journey, making this park truly a walk through peace and art.
Where is the Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park?
The Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park is on Ottawa’s Old Montreal Road. It is just outside Cumberland Village, east of Canada’s National Capital Region.
How to Get to the Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park
By OC Transpo: Ride the Route 221 bus and get off at Kinsella/Old Montréal. After that, it’s just a short walk!
By Taxi/Ridesharing App: You can ride a taxi or use ridesharing services such as Uber or Lyft. Using their mobile app, set your pick-up point and your destination to Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park.
By Car: Make your way to the Trans-Canada Highway then take the Ottawa Regional Road 174 E Exit and turn right onto Old Montreal Road. You will then see the park on the right side. Use navigation apps such as Waze or Google Maps for more specific directions.
What to Explore in Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park
Sculptures
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The park represents different religions and values through its abstract sculptures. These are scattered throughout different areas, allowing you to embark on a spiritual journey whilst traversing the park’s trails.
Each area tackles its own religion or value, making for a unique and spiritual experience. Below is a list of the spots where you can find the sculptures.
- Area A: Oneness of Reality
- Area B: Human Dignity and Respect
- Area C: Connectedness
- Area D: Buddhism
- Area E: Hinduism
- Area F: Christianity
- Area G: Human Responsibility
- Area H: Confucianism
- Area I: Judaism
- Area J: Aboriginal / Indigenous Spirituality
- Area K: Zoroastrianism
- Area L: Taoism and Shintoism
- Area M: Jainism
- Area N: Sikhism
- Area O: La foi baha’ie
- Area P: Islam
Walking Trails
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The walking trails make for a peaceful experience whether you’re by yourself or with companions.
They let you simmer nature at its purest. The calmness that the environment provides is second to none, providing a space where you can reflect peacefully.
You can explore these trails on your own with a book or a QR code that will walk you through the trails. If you want more guidance, you can also opt to join a guided tour.
Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park Services
Event Grounds
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Find yourself looking for a place to host your event? This is it!
This wooded wonderland’s grounds provide a balance of intimacy and tranquility, giving your event that extra wow factor!
It’s a perfect place to commemorate those special events you simply want to cherish.
People have hosted many events here such as outdoor weddings, memorials, and anniversaries, and every single one turned out absolutely exquisite.
Guided Educational Tours
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If you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, the park offers guided educational tours. Here, you’ll be joined by park staff who will share their knowledge about the park and its key zones, ensuring that you have a fruitful learning experience.
Anyone can avail of these tours and embark on this educational experience.
Personally, I had a different outlook on life after going on one of these but don’t take my word for it一it’s something you have to experience for yourself!
Meditation, Yoga, and Tai Chi Sessions
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For those seeking a more spiritual journey, the park offers Meditation, Yoga, and Tai Chi sessions held on its grounds.
This is the perfect activity to participate in after exploring the trails and seeing the sculptures.
Combining the peaceful setting and excellent instructors, this will surely be an eye-opening and enjoyable experience!
Where to Eat near Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park
Black Walnut Bakery
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Address: 979 Cameron Street
Phone: 613-884-6976
Pricing: $$
Website: https://blackwalnutbakery.ca/
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Within the heart of Cumberland Village, there’s a little bakery that packs a big punch.
Black Walnut Bakery has some of the best viennoiserie and hearth breads around! They’re known for their homemade croissant buns with different fillings, perfect for that sugary fix.
As scrumptious as that sounds, my favorite is their Pain au Chocolat, with its creamy dark chocolate and richness!
Everything in this bakery is made from scratch and only the highest-quality ingredients, giving you that homemade goodness they’re known for.
Maker Feed
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Address: 2607 Old Montreal Road
Phone: 613-833-8380
Pricing: $$
Website: https://makerfeedco.ca/
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday: Closed
- Monday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday and Thursday: 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Sunday Wine Night: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Maker Feed is the perfect place to have dinner. Situated within Cumberland Village, they’re known for their classic comfort foods made from Canadian and locally farmed products.
If you’re on a diet, 90% of their menu is gluten-free so that’s a plus!
You have to try their new dessert pizza. It’s a mouthwatering combination of fried pizza dough, cinnamon sugar butter, goat cheese, and salted caramel, guaranteed to leave you wanting more!
Pair it with their Cranberry Sparkle, which is their red sparkling wine and spiced apple made with maple whiskey—ooo-la-la do you have yourself a meal!
Mandarin
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Address: 2055 Tenth Line Road
Phone: 613-834-7000
Pricing: $$
Website: https://www.mandarinrestaurant.com/
Operating Hours:
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM and 4:15 PM – 9:00 PM
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM and 4:45 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM and 4:45 PM – 10:00 PM
Should you decide to visit Mandarin, get ready for a buffet-style chowdown. From salads and soups to Mandarin classics, I don’t even know where to start!
Let me tell you, their Barbecued Spareribs strike the balance between saltiness and sweetness, making a rich and tantalizing experience.
Pair this with crowd favorites such as Thai Mango Salad or Kiwi Mussels and you’ll have a dining experience like no other.
Where to Stay near Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park
Hampton Inn
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Address: 100 Coventry Road
Phone number: 613-741-2300
Website
The Hampton Inn is just a quick drive from the Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park.
With scenic views, free Wi-Fi, TVs, and mini-fridges, their rooms really have it all. Just sip your coffee and take everything in!
If you’re bored, the indoor pool and fitness center are readily available anytime. They also have meeting rooms should you have some work to do.
Did I mention that they also have free parking and daily hot breakfasts? I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t ask for more.
WelcomINNS
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Address: 1220 Michael Street
Phone number: 613-748-7800
Website
The WelcomINNS is a solid home base near the Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park. Its brick design adds to its appeal and really gives off that “home away from home” vibe.
Their rooms are bright and comfy and you can have them adjoined upon request. These also come with their own Wi-Fi, work area, TV, and mini-fridge.
This hotel is all about comfort and convenience as evidenced by their free continental breakfasts and complimentary tea. You also have access to their onsite laundry facilities and fitness room.
Holiday Inn
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Address: 1199 Joseph Cyr Street
Phone number: 613-744-1060
Website
The Holiday Inn is a four-star hotel that prides itself on its rooms and amenities, making it the perfect place to stay near the Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park.
Their rooms are complete with everything you could possibly needーTVs, hairdryers, microwaves, and many more.
You can also get food from their onsite restaurant and take it to your room! Your kids are in for a treat here as they eat for free!
Speaking of kids, I’m sure they’re going to enjoy the indoor pool. As for you, the fitness center and business rooms are readily available.