10 Unforgettable Road Trips from Ottawa for Every Season
One of Ottawa's best-kept secrets is how perfectly positioned it is for weekend escapes. Within a 4-hour drive, you can reach world-class ski hills, charming villages, UNESCO heritage sites, and some of the best wine country in Ontario. Here are 10 road trips worth making.
30 Minutes
Gatineau Park — Fresh air, scenic trails, lakes, and lookouts just across the river. Stop in Chelsea for a café break at Palmier or Biscotti & Cie before heading into the park.
40 Minutes
Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa — A romantic riverside retreat with a world-class spa and the exceptional fine-dining restaurant La Muse. Perfect for a long, lingering weekend.
1 Hour
Merrickville — A charming heritage village built along the Rideau Canal. Wander local shops, hop between cafés, and spend slow afternoons by the water. Ideal for a Sunday drive.
1.5 Hours
Coulonge River, Outaouais — Peaceful river views, outdoor adventures, and nature stays like Wildwood Nature Escape, offering glamping tucked deep in the forest.
2 Hours
Bel Air Tremblant — A forest escape with luxurious cabins, spa vibes, horses on-site, and archery. Before leaving, try Ekki Sushi — an absolute must.
Deep River — Canoeing, sunset views, campfire evenings, and cozy glamping at Tiny Village. Total digital detox energy.
Mont-Tremblant Village — Spectacular skiing, charming village, and incredible après-ski spots. Great year-round, but magical in winter.
- ☕ O Cafe for the best coffee & sandwiches
- 🍁 Maple taffy on snow in season
- 🍕 La Pizzateria for comfort food
- 🍣 Ekki Sushi for special occasions
3 Hours
Prince Edward County — Winery hopping, farm-to-table restaurants, boutique shops, and golden-hour evenings that effortlessly extend into long dinners. One of Ontario's finest food and wine destinations.
4.5 Hours
Toronto — Big-city energy with endless dining, shopping, shows, and waterfront walks. Worth the drive when you need a full reset.
Save this list, pick your distance, and start planning. Ottawa's position at the heart of Eastern Canada means there's always somewhere worth driving to.
Via The Ottawa Insider — follow @theottawainsider for more local travel inspiration.
