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.
