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- Ontario's Highlands Canoe Route
Ontario's Highlands Canoe Route
From £2,659 pp
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14 nights
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Economy flights
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Available May - September
Embark on a holiday through Ontario’s Highlands, journeying from the nation’s capital, Ottawa, to the vibrant city of Toronto. This scenic Canadian canoe route takes you through charming small towns, peaceful lakes, and forested landscapes to learn more about the importance of the canoe in Canadian history. Discover outdoor adventures like rafting and hiking and immerse yourself in local culture and history along the way. From the historic streets of Perth to the wild beauty of Haliburton and the tranquil shores of Rice Lake, each stop offers something unique.
What’s included?
- International flights from the UK based on economy class
- 10 nights hotel accommodation
- 11 days intermediate car hire with fully Inclusive insurance
- 2 nights at OWL Rafting including a Soft Adventure Rafting Trip
- Use of resort facilities at OWL Rafting
- Madawaska Kanu Centre’s Family Whitewater Rafting
- 2 nights at Elmhirst's Resort
- Use of kayaks, SUP boards, bicylces at Elmhirst's Resort
- Horse drawn wagon rides and farm tours at Elmhirst's Resort
- Canadian Canoe Museum General Admission
Holiday Map
Explore our interactive map to discover your holiday route and key points of interest.
Start
Finish
Stops
Point of interest
Your day-to-day plan
Day 1-2
Ottawa
Arrive in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city and transfer independently to your downtown hotel. Explore Parliament Hill, stroll along the scenic Rideau Canal, and immerse yourself in Canadian history at the Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery. Wander through ByWard Market for unique shopping and dining or go on a boat cruise on the Ottawa River for spectacular views.
Day 3
Perth
Today, pick up your car from downtown Ottawa and drive to the picturesque town of Perth, known for its beautifully preserved 19th-century stone buildings and tranquil river views. Explore the charming downtown, visit nearby Smiths Falls to learn more about the Rideau Canal and discover the scenic nearby Murphy's Point Provincial Park. This small town offers a peaceful retreat with a mix of history, nature, and great food, perfect for an overnight stop before heading into the hills of Calabogie.
Day 4-5
Calabogie
Nestled in the Ottawa Valley, Calabogie offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Spend your days hiking for panoramic views, paddling on Calabogie Lake, or biking local trails. Visit Calabogie Peaks for scenic chairlift rides or lakeside dining. The village has a friendly, laid-back feel with plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. With two nights here, you'll have time to both relax and explore one of eastern Ontario’s underrated gems.
Day 6-7
OWL Rafting
Head to OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River for two days of soft adventure and riverside fun. Perfect for families and beginners, this guided rafting trip offers excitement with plenty of splashy fun. There are options available if you would like a more challenging experience. Enjoy hearty meals served on a pontoon boat and relax at the riverside resort. The property features volleyball courts, hot tubs, a sandy beach, and evening campfires. It's an ideal spot for bonding with family or friends, enjoying nature, and unplugging from daily life.
Day 8
Barry’s Bay
Travel to Barry’s Bay, a quaint lakeside town near Algonquin Park’s eastern edge. This will be the perfect base for your next rafting trip. The nearby Madawaska Kanu Centre offers the Family Whitewater Rafting tour, which is perfect for beginners. For more experienced travellers, a more challenging alternative can be offered. This region offers beautiful sunsets and quiet forests for the perfect overnight stop to enjoy Ontario’s wilderness.
Day 9-10
Haliburton
Drive southwest to the Haliburton Highlands, where forests meet lakes and form an incredible landscape. Make sure to explore the Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve during your stay and don’t miss the Wolf Centre or the Canopy Walkway. Paddle quiet lakes, hike scenic trails, or explore the town, which is home to cozy cafés, galleries, and local shops. This area is great to reconnect with nature and enjoy the peacefulness of cottage country, which makes it a memorable stop.
Day 11-12
Elmhirst's Resort
Located on Rice Lake near Keene, Elmhirst’s Resort offers a friendly rural escape. Stay in spacious lakefront cottages with full kitchens and private docks. Activities include horseback riding, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The resort also features a spa, indoor pool, and a restaurant serving farm-to-table meals sourced from their on-site farm. Enjoy your two nights here before heading back to the city enjoying both activity and rest in this well-appointed lakeside haven.
Day 13-14
Toronto
Finish your trip in Toronto, Ontario’s buzzing metropolis. Drop off your car upon arrival and visit iconic attractions like the CN Tower and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Stroll the Harbourfront, explore Kensington Market’s eclectic vibe, or shop at the Eaton Centre. Dine at diverse venues, from gourmet restaurant to delicious street food vendors. Toronto’s energy, diversity, and skyline views provide the perfect final stop to your self-drive holiday.
Day 15
Fly Home
Depending on your flight schedule, you may need to check out of your hotel early and proceed to the airport or you will have a full day to explore more of Toronto before your overnight flight. If time allows, the Toronto Islands provide amazing views from Toronto’s skyline, which are easily accessible by boat. Whatever you’re interested in, Toronto has everything to keep you busy on your last day.
Featured hotels for this holiday ...
Hotel 1 of 1
Elmhirst's Resort
3 star
Nestled on the picturesque shores of Rice Lake, Elmhirst’s Resort is a family-owned and operated cottage resort that offers an authentic Canadian experience.
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This holiday requires an ETA for entry to Canada, for full details and to apply please see below:
Please note Parks Canada charge fees at most national parks and historic sites across the country. Parks Canada passes can be purchased as part of your holiday, speak to your sales advisor for more details. Early booking is recommended.
For further information about national parks and historic sites in Canada or to reserve campsites and activities, please visit:
