Lanark County

Bikepacking is a natural next step for those who love both cycling and camping, it truly is human power for the win. Over the past few years, Ontario’s Highlands has emerged as a bikepacker’s paradise with good reason: the rail trails are plentiful, you can choose between serviced front country or secluded backcountry camping options, […]

Ontario’s Highlands is showing its pride this summer! Our communities are bringing out the rainbow flags and getting ready to celebrate Pride Month (and longer) with all the rainbow-coloured bells and whistles. Celebrating pride in Ontario’s Highlands means smaller, more intimate events that give you a totally different Pride experience. Celebrate diversity and inclusivity at […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. The next time you are outdoors, take a moment to stand and truly feel of the land beneath your feet. If you concentrate really hard you may be […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. On my mother’s side, I am Algonquin Anishinabek, an original inhabitant of Turtle Island, known today as North America. The traditional homelands of the Algonquin people are the […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. – Amber Hein is Algonquin Anishinabek, an original inhabitant of Turtle Island, known today as North America. Read her perspective on how to give back to the land […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. Canadians are becoming more aware of the injustices perpetrated against Indigenous Peoples since settlers arrived on the shores of Turtle Island (North America). Still, many of us aren’t […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. Canada is home to more than 630 First Nations, representing over 50 sovereign nations with their own lands, culture, language, creation stories, language or dialect. With such a […]

Moms give up so much to bring us into this world and keep us safe for the first two decades of our lives. They sleep with one eye open, develop a sixth sense for when we’re in trouble, and basically dedicate their lives to making sure the world around us is safe and nurturing. Given […]

The highlight of a rural road trip is often the impromptu stop at a small town general store where you can find everything from pickled eggs to popsicles, and where penny candy begs for a sampling. General stores are a staple of the rural countryside in Ontario, peppered here and there in and between small […]

After a two-year hiatus for big, in-person events, we are so pumped to hear that many of our favourite festivals are finally happening again this year! These major community festivals and shows draw thousands of visitors and are looked forward to all year long as a chance to say hey to friends, meet new ones, […]

We’re all looking for something specific from our staycation– whether it’s a chance to unwind and recharge from our hectic lives, connect with family or loved ones, or really let loose and celebrate the joy of living. This year is your year to really have it all, no matter your vacation style. The good news […]

Stepping into your local outdoor outfitter or bike shop last year to find nothing but empty shelves was a good indication that bikepacking, the activity that combines backcountry camping and off-road cycling, will be a popular option for an outdoor getaway this year. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran ready to take on multi-day tours or […]

Did someone say road trip? The mere thought of a road trip brings to mind the excitement of heading out on an adventure where you may not know where you will end up but you’re pretty sure the getting there will be half the fun. When you head out for the day the options are […]

Sip and savour under the sun on a dreamy waterfront patio at one these spectacular restaurants.

If you have been feeling the impact of the past couple of years and all the stress it’s brought with it, we have good news for you. There is no better time to connect with yourself, family, or friends, than on an Ontario summer staycation. This year you can staycation and save up to $400 […]

Anyone who has ever travelled with kids will tell you the getting there is sometimes not so much fun. There are only so many times you can hear “Are we there yet?” before you really want to be at your destination. This is why a staycation is the perfect solution for a family vacation! When […]

When was the last time you spent time in nature, not just passing through, but really immersed in the natural world? Spending time away from the hustle and bustle of modern life gives you a new perspective on this complex and beautiful environment. All of a sudden the emails don’t seem to matter and your […]

A romantic escape is just the thing to ignite a little passion and bring you closer together as a couple. This summer, you can snuggle to your heart’s content and save at the same time with the Ontario Staycation Tax Credit which offers tax credits of up to $400 per couple. So there’s no excuse […]

Are you the type to pull over when you see a comically large roadside attraction, or a picture-perfect spot to snap a few shots? Amateur photographers and Instagrammers alike can agree that a giant ice cream cone, a massive mural adorning the side of a building, or a full-size replica of a jet plane are […]

Spring has sprung and we are all more than ready to get outside and stretch our legs with a refreshing spring trek. The best spring walks not only keep our feet dry but if we’re lucky we might catch a glimpse of the first buds of the season, and maybe a bird or two. Get […]

Each year, the spring thaw transforms leisurely meandering rivers, creeks, and streams into turbulent and powerful forces of mother nature. Fascinating to watch, this exciting display of rushing water can occupy you for hours at a time and is the perfect place to have a picnic lunch while taking in the show. This spring, take […]

Adventure seekers know that after a day spent on the road, trail, or water, giving it everything you’ve got, you’re looking for more than just a place to crash. You want an accommodation that’s central to all the activities you are planning, is a little bit edgy and invites you to push yourself just a […]

When spring comes around and the messy winter weather is in the rear-view mirror, many of us are struck with an itch to get out for a drive and explore someplace new. If you live in Ottawa or eastern Ontario, the small towns of Ontario’s Highlands make for a perfect day trip destination; these eight […]

Gravel cycling is all the rage these days and it’s no wonder – ideal for novice to experienced cyclists, gravel biking has just the right balance of challenge and accessibility. At the heart of gravel biking are the rail trails, defunct railways that have been converted for recreational purposes. With minimal exposure to traffic, these […]

Explore Ontario’s muddiest places with these ATV trails in Ontario’s Highlands.

Spring has sprung and we are all more than ready to get outside and stretch our legs with a refreshing spring trek. The best spring walks not only keep our feet dry but if we’re lucky we might catch a glimpse of the first buds of the season, and maybe a bird or two. Get […]

High-energy spring events in Ontario’s Highlands to take advantage of the warm weather.

Discover sweet places to stay for maple adventures in Ontario this spring.

In today’s world we must consciously strive to reduce and eliminate the biases that colour the world and our interactions within it. Here in Ontario’s Highlands, we imagine a gender equal world, free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination, where women are free to celebrate their successes and find support for their struggles. On International Women’s […]

Escape the city for a hearty meal with pure maple syrup at these top places for pancake breakfasts in Ontario’s Highlands.

Maple syrup isn’t just for pancakes. Celebrate Canada’s iconic sweetener in all its forms in Ontario’s Highlands.

Trends come and go in the cycling world, but idyllic rail trails, challenging gravel routes, and rugged mountain bike trails never go out of style. Locals have known for years that Ontario’s Highlands is a cyclist’s paradise, with all of the above and then some.   Whatever bike routes you are searching for, we have it. […]

Is there anything more thrilling and rejuvenating then venturing out into our wild places to connect with ourselves and nature? As photographer and conservationist Art Wolfe said; “It is in the wild places, where the edge of the earth meets the corners of the sky, the human spirit is fed.” And lucky us, we have […]

Ice climbing is an activity that invites you to go deeper into the wild places where it’s just you, your gear, your climbing partner, and your own sense of adventure. Climbing calls to those who want to try something new, want to learn something, and just want to feel the cool breeze of the great […]

“Our rock is Canadian Shield, it’s old, it’s covered in lichen, you have to wander through the woods to find it. But the way I describe Ontario climbing is adventure climbing, it’s kind of the whole deal.” – Lorne Foisy, Elements Guiding Lorne Foisy didn’t grow up climbing rock walls like Tommy Caldwell, and doesn’t […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  If you have been longing to cruise along snowy trails where the winter forest towers over you and the rush of the frosty wind fills your ears, this is the year […]

So you’ve heard about the Ontario Staycation Tax Credit and are wondering how you can save 20 per cent in accommodation expenses on your next Ontario getaway? Join the club! This year will surely go down in history as the year of the staycation for Ontario residents, and here in Ontario’s Highlands we couldn’t be […]

You don’t need to get on a plane to relax on a sandy beach, be pampered at a spa, or experience a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure in all four seasons. From luxury accommodations to rustic retreats, and minimalist getaways, Ontario’s Highlands has your dream staycation spot waiting for you. If you heard about the new Ontario […]

Believe it or not, winter is my absolute favourite season to get outdoors and hike! The trails are little more quiet, there are no bugs, and you don’t have to get up as early to catch an incredible sunrise.  If that’s not winning, I don’t know what is. The caveat of course, is that you […]

So you say you love the outdoors? But do you love it no matter the time of year? Falling in love with the outdoors is easy when it’s warm and sunny, but it’s a little harder to get similarly enthused when the wind is cutting through you like a knife, your eyes are smarting, and […]

If you’re not into the adrenalin rush of downhill skiing or the technical nature of cross country skiing, but still want to get out and get moving outdoors, snowshoeing can totally be your sport. We kind of think that snowshoeing is one of the great underappreciated of winter sports – you don’t need a lot […]

Skip the line-ups this winter and spend more time on the slopes at these Ontario’s Highlands hills.

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  If you were sad to pack away your bike for the winter, are lamenting the loss of beautiful weather for an early morning run, or regretting all the days you could […]

Glide over fresh snow on these cross-country ski trails near you.

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  You waken to the sound of new snow drifting onto the top of your tent or cabin, landing light as a feather one snowflake at a time. The world is hushed […]

Snuggle down for an enchanted sleigh ride through snowy forests and pristine wilderness settings in Ontario’s Highlands.

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  The hill spills beneath the runners of your toboggan, plunging into a darkness made even deeper by the sparkle of snow beneath the moonlight. Your nose is cold but your mittened […]

If you ever want to feel like you’ve stumbled onto the set of a holiday movie, the charming towns of Ontario’s Highlands are the place to be. Seriously, our small towns are so picturesque, they’re often used as the set for Christmas movies. Feel the holiday cheer for yourself when you visit these spots that […]

When the holiday decorations go up in December the whole world begins to shimmer with magic. Every car ride or stroll is filled with wonder as we drink in the night filled with sparkling holiday lights of all colours. For the next month or longer, villages, hamlets, and towns in Ontario’s Highlands will be lit […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  Is there any better feeling of aliveness than the way we feel when we connect to ourselves and others? Connections give us a grounded, joyful sensation of awareness and interaction that […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  If ever there was a time to embark on a road trip to inspire rest and self-discovery, it is now. After a challenging year and a half we could all use […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  Rumours are flying about the prospect of a wine shortage this winter, thanks to unprecedented drought in California combined with a destructive gypsy moth infestation here in Ontario. We’re trying not […]

Let’s face it – men can be tough to buy for at Christmas, so why make it any harder on yourself? If your guy is someone whose answer to “What do you want for Christmas?” is “Nothing.” Or “I don’t know, whatever.” we’ve got you. Browse our curated list of gift ideas that men will […]

If there’s one thing that makes one want to celebrate, it’s food. Doesn’t a slice of rich chocolate cake just call out for candles to mark a special occasion? And who can resist the lure of an expertly frothed hot cocoa, complete with grated nutmeg or cinnamon? Good wine, rich beers, and perfectly cured meats […]

We all have that one person on their list, someone who values spending time outdoors and adrenalin-filled adventure more than tangible things. Give them the choice and they’ll choose speeding through raging whitewater over a holiday sweater, or a long grueling hike capped by a phenomenal view over yet another scarf. These are the adrenalin […]

Do you hear that? Concentrate really hard and you may be able to hear the faint sound of holiday music tinkling in the background, the squeak of boots on new fallen snow, and the rustle of wrapping paper accompanied by the muted screech of Scotch tape. It’s happening: The season of giving is inching closer, […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses. The holidays just don’t seem like the holidays without taking part in some fun community events. We miss seeing friends and neighbours during these once-a-year community gatherings […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  When the days start getting shorter and the sun becomes something you crave more than chocolate, you know you are entering into the darkest months of the year. It can be […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  If the road is calling to you for one last foray before the world transitions from green to white, the time is now. Solidly in the fall season, the month of […]

Food is the great uniter – it brings people together and provides a social context to feed our spirit as well as our bodies. And isn’t it true that a gathering of family and friends can only be enhanced by the accompaniment of really good food (and vice versa)? This fall, we invite you to […]

“Food brings people together…the experience of dining makes people happy, way beyond the food.” – Chef Ian Carswell, Black Tartan Kitchen Black Tartan Kitchen owner and chef, Ian Carswell, is a study in contrasts. He’s passionate about food but he wasn’t raised in a culinary-focused household. He’s traveled the world but chose to open his […]

Do you remember a meal when after you’ve eaten the last bite you told yourself (and probably others) that it was “the best meal you’ve ever had”? This is often a holiday meal you and your family talk about for years and years, but can also be a quick and easy meal you enjoyed with […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  Fall is the perfect time for astronomy lovers to explore the night skies no matter where you are, but especially in Ontario’s Highlands, known for some of the darkest skies in […]

There’s something lingering in the air throughout October, leading up to the culmination of all things spooky on its final day – Halloween.   October starts with the summer’s lush canopy of green bidding a final farewell through a stunning display of vibrant colours. When the leaves die off and settle as a multi-coloured blanket on the forest floor, and the fog rolls in over the lakes and […]

Raise your hand if you’re all about snacks while hiking, camp meals on the fire, or cabin feasts with friends? (we’re going to go ahead and assume that your hand is up because all these things are awesome). Plant life contributes to the ecosystem, meals are the cornerstone of communities, and packing the right food […]

What makes cheese something we crave so much? Is it the slightly salty flavour, or because it’s the ultimate comfort food? Whatever the reason it’s a fact that cheese added to pretty much any dish only makes it better. No matter where you are from, cheese has played an important role in our gastronomic evolution. […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  When was the last time you bit down into something so warm and rich, cheesy and flavourful that your heart said “thank you!” and your belly said “more please!” The best […]

*When wandering in Ontario’s Highlands, please be aware of any local travel restrictions and guidelines. Vaccine passports accompanied by photo identification are currently required to enter some businesses.  In my humble opinion, there is no better time than fall to hop on my bike and hit the roads, gravel, and trails of Ontario’s Highlands. I don’t have to worry […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. The summer may be over but that doesn’t mean the party has to stop. Events that take place in fall are in many ways even more amazing than summer events – there are no bugs, the weather is more reasonable, and we’re all eager […]

Find the best vantage points for all the brilliant fall colours this season.

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. In fall you aren’t looking for a highway experience, you want to cruise the backroads and kick up the leaves into a whirlwind behind you as you pass. The best fall drives will you past spectacular scenery to small communities, perfect picnic spots, and […]

What do you get when you combine cute shops and restaurants housed in heritage buildings with enticing waterfront or a dash of strollable parks? You get totally adorable small towns that make the perfect road trip destination.  Whether you’re in it for the food, need some retail therapy, or are seeking natural wonders like towering […]

As we head into the last few weeks of summer this is the time to break out the daytrips and make the most of the nice weather. As a short, doable experience within a few hours drive from home, daytrips are like little mini holidays, without the airfare. Whether you live in Ottawa or Toronto, […]

When you hike, is it to experience nature? Perhaps catch up with friends? Whether if it’s one or the other – or maybe both! – nothing trumps taking a pause to listen to nature’s ‘music’. There is beauty is listening to bird songs, frogs’ choruses, and the wind through the trees. In fact, it’s an […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. Live music and patios go together like yin and yang, salt and pepper, peanut butter and jelly, or….well, you get the picture. When you’re dining on a patio with a band playing beside you, your food tastes better, the night stars are brighter, and […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. We all want to be able to make beautiful music, paint stunning works of art or write beautiful prose, but if it were easy, everyone would be doing it, wouldn’t they? It’s fair to say that fostering creativity is difficult to achieve in a […]

It’s been a long time since we’ve been able to gather in person, and the moment we’ve all been waiting for is finally here. If you have been missing gathering with friends and family to watch a live performance, dance under the stars, watch a play, try a new watersport, or just hang out together, […]

Local’s Take is a series highlighting the staycation experiences available close to home this summer. The experiences featured in this series were hand curated to highlight fun insider spots in our region. Use these stories as your launchpad to create your own staycation in Ontario’s Highlands. Local: Jenifer Brown From: Smiths Falls Travelling: Lanark County This summer my husband and I […]

I love setting goals on the bike; It seems like this happens on a micro and macro level constantly. The first 50-kilometres, then the first century, the first overnight. On the ride, you have these little checkpoints. Energy bars, swims, coffees, calories, hours in the saddle, kilometres in a day. It’s a constant. This became […]

If there’s one thing we can agree on it’s that few of us will turn down an opportunity to see a waterfall. Whether it has something to do with the mesmerizing whitewater cascade or the white-noise that comes with it, a waterfall is a universal attraction. It can be the reason for a hike or […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. Getting to know a river is almost like embarking on a wet and wild love affair. You forge a connection, learn everything you can, and then strengthen it over time. Sounds like a relationship, doesn’t it? The connection you have with a body of […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. Shhh…we’re not supposed to tell you about these swimming holes…some of them don’t even have names and you may never find them without a map, but we understand that when it’s 40 degrees out with the humidity and the public beach is packed the […]

Learn how you can get the most out of your river experience, while being a responsible tourist in Ontario’s Highlands.

This summer is the year to be on the water, to cast off on an epic paddling adventure that will take you along winding rivers, past shorelines crowded with towering trees, and where the ripples on the water draw you forward with each pull of the paddle. If you have been yearning to feel the […]

In the dog days of summer, when the sun is relentless and the humidity won’t cut you a break, there’s nothing more refreshing than an ice cream. Not only are our favourite frozen treats delicious, but they have the added bonus of helping regulate our temperature on a hot, sticky day. Scientifically proven or not, […]

When was the last time you discovered a local landmark or business that you didn’t know was there? In Ontario’s Highlands, we have some amazing spots and experiences that you might be surprised to hear about. For example, did you know the longest canopy boardwalk in the world is located in Haliburton Highlands? Or that […]

If you’re dreaming of having the best foodie experiences in Ontario, we’ve got your back. Where else can you visit and sample products from craft breweries, distilleries, and cideries, cheese makers, and award-winning eateries that reflect the diverse flavours of Ontario’s Highlands? Following a food and drink trail is not a shot in the dark […]

Tell Dad how much awesome he is this Father’s Day with a little local love from these places in Ontario’s Highlands.

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out, Whether it’s a throwback to simpler days when a weekend picnic was a full day adventure or a need to connect with nature, having a picnic is something we universally enjoy. Spreading your picnic blanket on the ground and lounging while you nibble on […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. Spending time on the water gives the world an almost magical feel. The minutes drift past at the pace of the current around you, and the sun slows the passage of time to a trickle. You are hyper-aware; you are present. When you’re on […]

The community of Almonte has a habit of creating and fostering artists, a trend that’s perpetuated in the work and life of Almonte artist, Rosemary Leach. Rosemary and her husband, Jake, originally hail from Toronto and Peterborough, respectively, and intentionally went looking for a community with an unhurried pace in which to settle down when […]

Challenge accepted: Take on the Great Potato Abundance of 2020 and put a dent in the local potato population.

Lounging on your balcony, patio, or deck sipping a yummy cocktail while the sun warms our face tells us we have finally arrived at the pinnacle of all summer experiences – cocktail season. We have to admit, we really do love a good cocktail, and we know the best drinks are made with care using […]

From the day we burst into the world, mothers mean safety, warmth, and unconditional love. Mothers are almost superhuman, virtually able to leap tall buildings in a single bound and cure all ills with the sweep of a hand. Moms know when you need a hug, when you need to be left alone, and are […]

It’s something we dream of all winter – that magical moment when the sweet spring sun touches our skin for the first time, and the whole world feels bigger and brighter. This is when we peel back the layers we’ve piled on for the winter months and for the first time get a full glimpse […]

These days the warm weather is telling us summer is here and we don’t need to be told twice to get out and embrace the outdoors. The best summer hikes not only take us into the wild places but if we’re lucky we might catch a glimpse of some wildlife and take in the rushing waters […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  If we had to pick a single month that would be awesome for playing games, it would be March (okay, and maybe February). Mother Nature can’t decide if it’s winter, spring (or sometimes summer), and there are times when it seems safer to hunker […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  Valentine’s Day may be over but that doesn’t mean our chocolate indulgence has to end. Is there even such a thing as too much chocolate? We think not. For true chocolate lovers, every opportunity to sample a new artisanal chocolate is reason to rejoice. […]

At the beginning of this season, I got the idea to cycle one large loop of old railroad bed before the leaves turned in the fall and the snow closed in. I love setting goals on the bike; It seems like this happens on a micro and macro level constantly. This became my goal for […]

*Stay home, stay safe. This article contains experiences you can have at home or that conform with current stay-at-home orders. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, but unfortunately this year brings with it new challenges.  You can’t go out to dinner, you can’t go see a movie, and many of the typical Valentine’s Day […]

The ground may be covered by snow right now, but we’re dreaming of the warm weather and the camping season to come in the wild places in Ontario’s Highlands. Camping reservations have recently opened at provincial campgrounds across Ontario and if last year was any indicator spots will book up fast. You can book a […]

Explore wild places on cross country ski or snowshoe trails in Ontario’s Highlands.

The holiday season is coming, and it’s the season for giving. You might be the type to start planning early, or the kind who is motivated by pressure, not even beginning your shopping until the 11th hour. Whichever you are, we’re here to help get the ideas flowing with a list of online gifts that […]

Get into the holiday spirit this month with these mixologists and craft drink producers in Ontario’s Highlands.

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  You’ve heard the word and maybe you’ve even seen Instagram pics of colourful charcuterie boards, and if you’re lucky you’ve sampled this meaty treat yourself (in case you wondered, it’s pronounced shahr-ku-tuh-ree). Charcuterie is originally a French word that literally translates to […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  You nestle into a soft cocoon of blankets while curled up on the couch, the fire casting its flickering glow onto the faces of friends or family as you share comradery and conversation. You clasp a warm mug in your hands, the […]

Spend the night in historic accommodations to take yourself to way-back-when, and get into the spirit of the community you’re visiting. These inns have stories to tell of the people who lived and breathed inside their walls.

Discover quaint towns with inviting restaurants and local shops at these top destinations for day trips.

‘Tis the season – for shopping. Yes, the leaves may have barely fallen from the trees but the jack-o-lanterns will shortly be switched out for ornaments and holly and the days are numbered before the holidays are here live and in person. This year when planning your shopping to-do list, we have two words for […]

Friluftsliv (free-lufts-liv): Free air life *Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  If you’re worried about being stuck indoors this winter, the Scandinavians may have the solution with this hard to pronounce and consonant-filled word: friluftsliv. Loosely translated, friluftsliv means “free air life,” a concept that was coined by […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  Thanksgiving dinner is something we dream about all year long – the perfectly roasted turkey dishes up with cranberry sauce, potatoes and veggies, and often paired with more than one glass of wine or a cold pint of beer or cider, not […]

Oktoberfest brings to mind a crowded beer hall filled with large Germans shouting ‘Prost!’ and knocking thick beer steins together with gusto. But is this an event or a cultural celebration? We would argue the latter, and not just because we are looking for an excuse to drink beer and eat schnitzel. This year will […]

So you’ve seen the Instagram posts of friends or family seated around a rustic campfire, enthusing on the beauty of nature and a rugged camping experience, but you’re thinking “That’s totally not for me?” Hey, don’t sweat it, you are not alone. Camping isn’t for everyone, and who says it should be? If everyone were […]

Have you ever wandered through an older building and felt the hair raise on the back of your neck, and not been sure why? It may be you are sensing something that others aren’t, some spooky aftereffect from a historical wrongdoing or the ghostly pinings of a disgruntled spirit. Many small communities in Ontario’s Highlands […]

Celebrate the beauty of autumn in unique ways across Ontario’s Highlands

Who says art can only be found in big galleries or urban showrooms? To find fantastic local and Canadian art you need to head to the places that inspire artists to create, and Ontario’s Highlands is among the most beautiful places in Ontario (in our humble opinion). Beyond the inspiration found in the rugged hills […]

Discover how four craft drink makers harness Mother Nature’s flavours to elevate their beverages in Ontario’s Highlands.

So you’re not ready for camping season to end? Here’s a tip: It doesn’t! Just because the summer is over doesn’t mean we need to head indoors, when it comes to camping experiences, fall is where it’s at. Fall camping is an entirely different (and some would say better) experience from summer camping. Sure it’s […]

Find these cideries on your next road trip through Ontario’s Highlands to discover a refreshing way to toast the apple harvest with a cold cider.

Lanark County is a land of sweet contrasts, where dense forests of sugar maple border lush, green fields and you’re as likely to come across a cyclist as a farmer on one of the region’s winding roads. Urban and rural unite here to create a region that’s as colourful and varied as the patchwork quilt […]

Remember when your whole summer was devoted to swimming, playing, catching frogs, and finding adventures? At one time, this was an entire season fueled by ice cream, Freezies, and hot dogs. August always felt so short, and by the time it rolled around you’d scramble to finish your summer bucket list, savouring each shortened day […]

Ribbons of water and steel sear the land through Smiths Falls. The railroads and rushing Rideau River provide a physical reminder of the industrial heritage that helped shape this small, bold town in the heart of the Rideau Canal, a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Smiths Falls is a place of contrasts and character, where […]

This year the key to exploring is to keep it local; this is the time to explore our own backyards, and the regions close to home that have so much to offer us in the way of exhilarating outdoor experiences, fantastic food and drink, and blissful relaxation. If you’re exploring a new corner of Ontario’s […]

“Stranded at the drive-in, branded a fool What will they say Monday at school?” – Danny Zuko, Grease We could think of worse things than being stranded at the drive-in with Danny Zuko this summer! Maybe it’s because of the 1950s movie Grease, or maybe it’s just because it’s an awesome experience, but there’s something […]

You waken slowly in the early morning, the high-pitched warble of birdsong drifting lightly through the trees overhead. The sky is faintly brightening with the coming of dawn, and the natural world is gradually blossoming to life. Around you there is no trace of human activity, no murmurs of voices, clanging of dishes, or whir […]

Live the lifestyle of the rich and famous – for a week, anyway – with a Le Boat cruising staycation.

You don’t need to leave the house for a romantic and locally inspired experience. Bring date night home with these four romantic experiences.

A throwback to summers gone past, with inspiration for this year’s adventure.

Discover these chip trucks and their classic dishes, located throughout Ontario’s Highlands.

Get a virtual peek into these museums in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover the benefits of Wandering and why the place to do it is Ontario’s Highlands.

Hit the water and take advantage of these easy kayaking and canoeing opportunities in Ontario’s Highlands.

Take a trip around Ontario’s Highlands to these micro-breweries to discover your perfect summer beer.

Find tranquility with Cabinscape and connect to nature in the off-grid Joni Cabin.

Feed your curiosity and explore the diverse geology of Ontario’s Highlands at these Recreational Geology locations.

Make a high tea that’s fit for a queen using Tea & Cake’s secret scone recipe and how-to.

Rich, velvety chocolate, whipped ganache, creamy frosting…chocolate cake is the ultimate in old-time comfort foods. Ignite a passion for chocolate with this recipe from Hummingbird Chocolate Maker.

Laurel Cook reflects on life in Lanark County, Ontario’s Maple Syrup Capital.

Wake up lakeside with a steaming cup of coffee from a roastery in Ontario’s Highlands.

Easter is just a bunny hop around the corner and dreams of chocolate are filling the minds of children – and adults, too. A chocolate treat is the perfect way to sweeten your spring, and when it comes to this dark delicacy, the folks at Perth Chocolate Works are the experts. Since opening their doors […]

Discover the beauty of mindfulness and allowing yourself to Just Breathe.

With maple season in full swing, try these Sugar Bush-Approved maple recipes.

From Bed & Breakfasts to manors, Ontario’s Highlands is dotted with unique accommodations options for a memorable night stay.

Discover the 7 Wonders of Lanark County in Ontario’s Highlands.

Rediscovering a love for cycling with these key destinations in Ontario’s Highlands.

Chow down on artisan wood-fired pizza at any of these gems across Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover these perfect picnic spots throughout the Ottawa Valley and Lanark County on your next road trip just outside of Ottawa.

Expert fishing guide Sebastian Kowalczuk shares his secret fishing spots where you’re guaranteed a good catch.

Spring’s revival invites you to immerse yourself in your senses.

Celebrate Pi Day with the best pie at these bakeries in Ontario’s Highlands.

Gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian – dine with confidence at these 10 Ontario’s Highlands restaurants. Your belly will thank you.

Black Tartan Kitchen’s Ian Carswell prepares for national competition.

Hanging around the city in the dead of winter is tough. This is when you yearn to get away from the slush, pack the car and head out for an almost-spring getaway, with family in tow. Get out of Ottawa with a road trip to Ontario’s Highlands where the snow is pristine and sparkling, and […]

Discover four delicious artisan chocolate destinations in Lanark County.

Add a little romance at one of these nine intimate Ontario retreats.

Broaden your horizons and learn something new at a unique museum in Ontario’s Highlands’.

Winter events across Ontario’s Highlands that will help you keep your New Year’s Resolutions.

A grown-up’s guide to falling in love with Snow Days in Ontario’s Highlands.

Perfect brunch spots a daytrip away from Canada’s Capital.

Discover some of the best bakeries in Ontario’s Highlands and their tasty treats.

Top 6 places to warm up with cozy Lanark County drinks.

Tips for a successful catch with ice fishing this winter.

From riverside trails and historical tales, come discover all the charms of Carleton Place.

Today’s craft markets are full of fresh, hip products made by creative and talented makers. This holiday season, go above and beyond by picking up handmade items with a story to tell at one of these Ontario holiday markets.

Freshen your fall wardrobe with these top places go shopping in Lanark County.

As an angler who is passionate about exploring new waters, I’m grateful to live in a region that has endless options! Whether you’re shore fishing, venturing out by boat, kayak, or canoe, there are bass fishing opportunities for everyone here in the Ontario’s Highlands region. I’ve put together a list of my five favourite bass […]

Discover these six ways to experience brilliant fall colours in Lanark County, the land of maples.

Fall food festivals to warm your spirits and delight your taste buds in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover the warmth of friendly artists and artisans this fall with Studio Tours in Ontario’s Highlands.

Places throughout Ontario’s Highlands for any type of group.

Discover the best places for summer sunsets in Ontario’s Highlands.

Sip & Savour your way through the best food and drink spots in Lanark County.

Discover these top ice cream stops across Ontario’s Highlands to keep cool this summer on your road trip.

Discover 10 craft breweries along with 10 delectable burger joints to indulge your taste buds near Ottawa.

Discover these 5 golf courses in Ontario’s Highlands, perfect spots for your next golf escape.

Camps across Ontario’s Highlands to fill your kids’ days with excitement.

From rock to folk, these Ontario’s Highlands summer music festivals will keep you coming back year after year.

Discover these top ways to enjoy the strawberry season, when you let these farm-fresh berries shine on their own or in a variety of treats.

Celebrate creativity at art festivals across Ontario’s Highlands this summer.

Check out these cycling races, plus where to stay, eat, and rest at the towns nearby.

Breathe the fresh air at outdoor yoga workshops and events near Ottawa, Ontario.

3 tips to ensure a memorable cottage escape in Ontario Highlands.

Head into the woods and onto the water this summer and discover these off-grid cabins in Ontario.

Indulge your taste buds this summer with these 5 local finds at Farmers Markets through Ontario’s Highlands.

Check out these spots for afternoon tea at these tea rooms across Ontario’s Highlands.

Grab your SUP board and take in the beautiful views at these 5 places in Ontario’s Highlands.

Check out one of these live theatre performances throughout Ontario’s Highlands.

Schedule your next doughnut date to one of these stand-out shops in Ontario’s Highlands.

Get a behind the scenes look into the world of baseball at Sam Bat.

Four memorable bike adventures in Ontario’s Highlands.

Follow the flow of maple with a creative twist with the Maple Run Studio Tour.

Embrace the sweetest spring tradition with maple taffy in Lanark County.

Learn the five ways to embrace the deep cold in Lanark County this winter.

Treat that special someone this Valentine’s Day to a gift of sweets at one of these top places.

Enjoy some quality family time and embrace the season during an escape to Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover Vodkow, the new beverage from the Dairy Distillery causing a stir in Almonte, Ontario.

Discover Almonte Ontario, a charming town that will delight and surprise any traveller.

Discover snowshoeing on the Rideau Trail in Lanark County.

Follow this Serenity Seeker Road Trip story with a focus on pampering.

Read one blogger’s guide to exploring Almonte, a 19th century mill town.

Catch a Festival of Small Halls show in Ontario’s Highlands.

Read how Christine from Amidst the Chaos bonded with the family and made memories on this family road trip.

Marvel at outdoor art dotting the streets and trails across Ontario’s Highlands.

A three-day Serenity Seeker Route to getaway, unwind, and leave any stress behind.

A three-day Memory Maker Route filled with moments of laughter and connection.

Discover the big things happening in the small towns along the Rideau Canal.

Travel ideas for Father’s Day and beyond.

Top 4 summer treats that are worth the stop on your next Ontario’s Highlands road trip.

Explore the sweet moments and ageless beauty of Perth, Ontario.

Discover unique finds and decor on a shopping trip through Ontario’s Highlands.

This March Break, do something unexpected with the family.

Seven charming museums in Ontario’s Highlands.

Seven amazing ways to indulge your next craving with maple-inspired treats.

Discover one writer’s quest to discover what makes Lanark County so sweet with Maple Mania.

Popular downhill skiing destinations in Ontario’s Highlands.

Places to enjoy a meat-free meal in Lanark County.

4 Tips for getting to welcoming Ontario’s Highlands communities.

An expert’s guide on the best fishing spots in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover how a mother-daughter duo made memories in historic Perth, ON.

An expert traveller’s advice on how seek serenity and embrace a slower pace in Ontario’s Highlands.

No clouds were allowed to darken this girls’ getaway in Ontario’s Highlands.

A beginner’s guide to everything you need for a great catch in Ontario’s Highlands.

Visit these 8 Ontario Parks’ campgrounds in Ontario’s Highlands and discover why they are worth the admission.

From hidden gems to ancient caves, these recreational geology trips are full of surprises.