From Lookouts to Lattes: A Lanark County Girls’ Escape

Our girls’ trip to the Ontario Highlands kicked off with big views, bold beers, and a cozy night by the river. And it started with a hike that made us work for it.

I’m taking this trip with my sister - she’s a hard-working first responder in Hastings County who deserves a break and this opportunity to explore. 

Even though we grew up in Belleville, just a bit west in Hastings County, we’ve never ventured to Lanark County before, and we’re really excited to get to know this part of our province.

Departing from my mom’s place in Frankford, we made our way to the Eagle’s Nest Lookout in Calabogie, a challenging hike along the Manitou Mountain Trail. This is a hike on every adventure girl’s to-do list! 

We parked at the trailhead off County Road 508, where it’s a quick, but difficult and sweaty one-kilometre trek and wee climb to the look-out points at Eagle’s Nest. We did this on the first hot, humid day of the season and navigated rocks and tree roots. 

Standing at Eagle’s Nest feels like teetering on the edge of Ontario itself, with layered hills and endless tree lines stretching to the horizon. 

Post-hike, we cooled down and refuelled with a tasting flight each at Calabogie Brewing Co. Sitting on a patio over looking the Madawaska River, I sampled the Uncharted Cerveza, Raspberry Kölsch, Portage Pilsner, and American Wheat Ale. They were refreshing and felt well-earned. 

We wrapped the day in Almonte with a stay at The Monte Inn and Lounge. You will find this spot right on the Mississippi River. It’s a gem of a boutique stay that I would highly recommend. We had the Judge's Chambers, which is a suite immediately to the right you walk into the Inn. 

There was a lot of room for us to coexist: two double beds, a living room, a patio, and a spacious washroom. The Inn has a sauna, hot tub, and beautiful water views. 

After cleaning up, we enjoyed dinner at The Lounge at The Monte. Between the lamb shank, short ribs, and a half-price bottle of Rioja (hello, Wednesday specials), we were officially spoiled.

The best part? A short walk down the hall after dinner to fall into one of the comfiest beds I’ve ever slept in.

Day Two: From Town Wanders to Winery Wonders

We kicked off our second day the best way we know how—slipping into the hot tub at The Monte Inn for a morning soak. There’s even a cold plunge for the brave. Once thoroughly relaxed, we wandered into the town of Almonte - this is a huge highlight for those into towns that are preserved.

It’s as charming as they come, with historic stone buildings and waterfalls right in the heart of town. We couldn’t resist popping into Baker Bob’s for some local baked goods, coffee and baked goods as fuel for the road ahead.

Our next stop was Vodkow Dairy Distillery, and yes, you read that right: vodka made from milk products. We were skeptical at first, but pleasantly surprised—smooth, unique, and totally gift-worthy. We didn’t know these products existed, and now we won’t stop talking about them.

From Almonte, we drove to Perth and checked into the Best Western Parkside Inn. Our first order of business? Pedicures at the spa. After the previous day of hiking and a morning of exploring, this was exactly what our feet needed.

Later that afternoon, we visited River House Winery in Maberly for lunch and a tasting. 

This is hands-down one of the prettiest wineries I’ve seen in Ontario—lush, peaceful, and beautifully tucked away. The baked brie and charcuterie board could have been a meal on its own, but we added a crispy chicken sandwich and beef melt for good measure. No regrets.

For a tasting, I sampled the unoaked chardonnay, Vidal, Riesling and Pinot Noir. The Baco Noir (which I had at lunch) and Vidal were surprisingly great for a young winery, and I had to take a couple of bottles for the road. I can’t wait to revisit in a couple of years and see how far their wines will have come.

We spent the balance of the afternoon soaking in the hotel’s hot tub and pool before heading to dinner at Rocky River, conveniently located right next door. Their riverside patio is stunning! And I can see why it’s popular with the locals. It’s perfect for winding down and catching up on the day with a great drink menu and classic pub food.

Day Three: Paddling, Pancakes, and a Sweet Goodbye

Our final day started with a hotel breakfast and one last adventure—a paddle in the Tay River at Last Duel Park in Perth. This spot has a fascinating past: it’s the site of the last fatal duel in Upper Canada. Over a woman! 

These days, it’s a peaceful spot along the Tay River where locals and visitors alike head out in kayaks and paddleboards to enjoy the calm waters.

Thankfully, there are washroom facilities there where you can change when you are done and ready to hit the road.

Before we wrapped up the trip, we had to make one last essential stop: for maple syrup. Lanark County is known as the maple syrup capital of Ontario, so we headed to Wheeler’s Pancake House to see what the buzz was about. We toured their maple heritage museum, hiked a trail lined with sap lines, and picked up a bottle of the good stuff to bring home.

Final thoughts? Lanark County hits all the right notes if you’re thinking about a girls’ trip that blends adventure, charm, good food, and great company. It’s close to Belleville, Kingston, and Ottawa, but feels like a true getaway. 

We’ll be back!